Name: Lemony White Bean Dip
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 ½ ounces Parmesan cheese, finely grated on a microplane (about 1 cup); ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for serving; 4 ounces feta cheese in brine, crumbled, plus 2 tablespoons brine, divided; 1 teaspoon lemon zest, plus more for garnish; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 garlic clove, grated; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper, plus more for garnish; 2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed, divided (about 3 cups); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill, plus more for garnish; Crostini, for serving

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Lemony White Bean Dip is a zesty and creamy appetizer that blends the richness of white beans with the tang of feta and Parmesan. With a hint of fresh lemon zest and dill, this dip is the perfect balance of savory and tangy, making it an ideal pairing with crispy crostini for a delightful snack or party appetizer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Lemony White Bean Dip is incredibly creamy and packed with flavor, thanks to the combination of feta, Parmesan, and fresh lemon zest. The addition of cannellini beans gives it a smooth, velvety texture, while the fresh dill adds a burst of freshness. Whether you’re serving it for a party, a casual get-together, or as a light snack, it’s a quick and easy dip that’s sure to impress with its delightful balance of tanginess and richness. Plus, it takes only 10 minutes to make, so it’s perfect for those last-minute gatherings! Lemony White Bean Dip

Ingredients

1 ½ ounces Parmesan cheese, finely grated on a microplane (about 1 cup)
¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for serving
4 ounces feta cheese in brine, crumbled, plus 2 tablespoons brine, divided
1 teaspoon lemon zest, plus more for garnish
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 garlic clove, grated
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper, plus more for garnish
2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed, divided (about 3 cups)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill, plus more for garnish
Crostini, for serving

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a food processor, combine the Parmesan cheese, olive oil, feta brine, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, salt, pepper, 1 ice cube, and 2 ¼ cups of cannellini beans. Process for about 2 minutes, until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Transfer the mixture to a shallow bowl and fold in the chopped dill, 2 ounces crumbled feta, and the remaining ¾ cup of beans.
Top the dip with the remaining 2 ounces of crumbled feta and drizzle with extra olive oil.
Garnish with more fresh dill, lemon zest, and black pepper. Serve with crostini and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover Lemony White Bean Dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will even deepen overnight! When ready to serve, simply bring it to room temperature or give it a quick stir. The dip is best served chilled or at room temperature, so no need to reheat.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bean?

Yes! While cannellini beans are ideal for this dip, you can substitute them with other white beans like Great Northern beans or navy beans.

Can I make this dip in advance?

Absolutely! This dip is even better when made ahead, as the flavors meld together. Just prepare it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

Can I skip the feta brine?

If you don’t have feta brine, you can substitute with a little extra olive oil or a splash of lemon juice for the tangy flavor. However, the brine adds a unique salty depth to the dip.

Can I make this dip dairy-free?

To make this dip dairy-free, substitute the feta and Parmesan with plant-based cheese alternatives. Look for dairy-free feta and Parmesan-style cheese, and ensure your olive oil is suitable.

How can I make this dip spicier?

If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when blending the dip. Adjust to your desired spice level.

Can I serve this dip with other items besides crostini?

Yes, this dip pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, including raw vegetables (like carrots, cucumber, or bell peppers), crackers, or pita bread.

How do I prevent the dip from being too thick?

If the dip is too thick, add a little more olive oil or water to thin it to your desired consistency. Blend again to incorporate.

Can I freeze this dip?

While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the dip for up to 2 months. Let it thaw in the refrigerator before serving. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after freezing, but the flavor will remain delicious.

Can I make this dip without a food processor?

If you don’t have a food processor, you can mash the beans by hand and mix the ingredients in a bowl. Use a hand blender or immersion blender to achieve a smoother texture if needed.

Can I add other herbs to this dip?

Feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs, such as parsley, thyme, or basil, to complement the dill and add more depth of flavor to the dip.

Conclusion

Lemony White Bean Dip is a vibrant, flavorful appetizer that is sure to be a hit at any gathering. The creamy texture, combined with the tangy lemon and fresh dill, makes this dip the perfect balance of savory and refreshing. Easy to make and incredibly versatile, it’s a go-to recipe for anyone looking to serve a crowd-pleasing dip with a little extra zest!