Roasted Garlic & White Bean Dip
A creamy, flavorful dip featuring the sweet, mellow taste of roasted garlic blended with protein-rich cannellini beans, bright lemon, and rich olive oil. It's a healthy and satisfying appetizer perfect for any occasion.
For 6 servings
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare the garlic head by slicing off the top 1/4 inch to expose the cloves. Place the garlic head on a small piece of aluminum foil.
Drizzle 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over the exposed garlic cloves. Wrap the garlic head tightly in the aluminum foil, creating a sealed packet.
Roast the garlic in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the cloves are very soft, golden brown, and fragrant. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly until it's comfortable to handle.
While the garlic cools, rinse and thoroughly drain the cannellini beans. This removes excess sodium and helps create a cleaner flavor profile for the dip.
Once cooled, carefully squeeze the softened roasted garlic cloves from their skins into the bowl of a food processor. Add the rinsed cannellini beans, fresh lemon juice, the remaining 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper.
Process the mixture until it becomes smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is well combined.
If the dip is too thick, add cold water one tablespoon at a time, processing after each addition, until your desired consistency is reached. The dip should be smooth and spreadable, not too stiff or too runny.
Taste the dip and adjust seasonings as necessary. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or a squeeze of additional lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Transfer the roasted garlic and white bean dip to a serving bowl. For an appealing presentation, drizzle with a little extra olive oil and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and/or smoked paprika.
Serve immediately with your favorite dippers such as pita bread, crusty baguette, crackers, or an assortment of fresh vegetable sticks like carrots, celery, and bell peppers.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't rush the roasting: Roasting the garlic until it's very soft and caramelized is key to developing its sweet, mellow flavor. Undercooked garlic will result in a sharper, less pleasant taste.
- 2Adjust consistency with water: The amount of water needed can vary. Start with a small amount and add gradually until you achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency that's not too thick or too thin.
- 3Serve at room temperature: While the dip can be served chilled, allowing it to come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving will enhance its flavors and creaminess.
- 4Garnish for impact: A simple drizzle of good olive oil, a sprinkle of fresh herbs (like parsley or chives), or a pinch of smoked paprika not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the overall flavor experience.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Kick
Add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a small, deseeded jalapeño pepper to the food processor with the other ingredients for a touch of heat.
Herbaceous BoostHerbaceous Boost
Incorporate 1-2 tablespoons of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano along with the beans for an aromatic twist. Fresh dill or chives also work wonderfully.
Sun Dried Tomato InfusionSun-Dried Tomato Infusion
Add 2-3 tablespoons of oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes (drained) to the food processor for a sweet and tangy Mediterranean flair.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Cannellini beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and promotes a feeling of fullness, supporting weight management.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Extra virgin olive oil provides monounsaturated fats, known for their benefits in reducing bad cholesterol levels and supporting overall cardiovascular health.
Antioxidant Powerhouse
Garlic contains compounds like allicin, which have powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to immune support and cellular health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this dip is excellent for meal prep! You can make it up to 3-4 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
