Ina Garten White Bean Dip Recipe

If you’re in search of a simple yet delicious snack, Ina Garten’s White Bean Dip is exactly what you’ll want to make!

Trust me, I know!

The recipe is straightforward and includes ingredients that you probably already have—cannellini beans, garlic, lemon juice, and some good olive oil.

A tip to keep in mind is to process the beans to just the right texture so the dip stays creamy without losing its character.

I love this recipe because of its versatility; it pairs perfectly with pita chips, fresh veggies, or even as a sandwich spread.

Don’t forget to add your favorite herbs for a fresh twist that makes the dish pop!

How to Make Ina Garten White Bean Dip Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 can Cannellini Beans (15 oz.)
• 1/3 cup Olive Oil
• 2 cloves Garlic
• 2 tbsp Lemon Juice
• 1 tsp Lemon Zest
• 1/2 tsp Sea Salt
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
• 2 tbsp Parsley (chopped)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Drain and rinse the can of cannellini beans well to remove excess sodium.

Step 2:

In a food processor, add the beans, garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest.

Blend until the mixture starts to become creamy.

Step 3:

With the food processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil and blend until smooth.

Step 4:

Season with sea salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley.

Blend just a little to combine the seasonings.

Step 5:

Transfer the dip to a serving dish, and add a drizzle of olive oil on top if desired.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choose Quality Beans

Using a can of high-quality cannellini beans makes a noticeable difference in the dip’s taste.

Adjust the Garlic

You can add more garlic if you love its bold flavor or use roasted garlic for a milder taste.

Fresh Herbs Matter

Fresh herbs such as parsley provide a burst of color and flavor, but you can also try basil or cilantro for variety.

Balance the Lemon

If the lemon flavor is too strong, add a touch more olive oil or some lemon zest to balance it out.

Experiment with Heat

For a bit of spice, include a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to your taste preference.

What to Serve with Ina Garten White Bean Dip

Pita Bread

You can’t go wrong with pita bread when serving alongside Ina Garten’s white bean dip.

The soft, chewy texture of pita pairs beautifully with the creamy dip.

Opt for warm, whole-grain pita to add a touch of rustic warmth.

Fresh Vegetable Sticks

Crisp vegetable sticks offer a fresh and crunchy contrast to the smooth bean dip.

Consider serving carrots, celery, or bell pepper slices for a vibrant presentation.

These vegetables not only add color but also enhance the overall experience.

Grilled Shrimp

Grilled shrimp is an unexpected yet delicious pairing with white bean dip.

The savory, slightly smoky flavor of the shrimp complements the creamy, lemony dip.

Arrange the shrimp on skewers for a fun and easy serving option.

Sliced Baguette

A crispy sliced baguette provides a classic yet perfect pairing with this dip.

The crunchy texture contrasts nicely with the creamy consistency of the dip.

Lightly toast the baguette slices to add a golden crunch that complements the flavors.

Roasted Chickpeas

Roasted chickpeas bring an unexpected twist when paired with white bean dip.

Their nutty, crunchy texture adds a delightful depth to each bite.

You can season them with paprika or cumin for an extra kick.

Variations and Substitutions

Alternative Ingredients

You can try different beans, like chickpeas or navy beans, for a new taste and texture.

Switch the lemon juice with lime juice for a refreshing twist on the flavor!

Why not add a bit of cumin or smoked paprika for a deeper, richer essence?

Fresh Herbs

Fresh herbs make this dip vibrant!

Swap parsley for basil or cilantro to change things up.

Feel free to experiment with rosemary for a woodsy note that pairs well with white beans.

Extra Flavor Boosts

Add some zest with lemon or lime zest for an intense citrus kick.

For more heat, incorporate some red pepper flakes or jalapeños when blending.

Try topping the dip with toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds for a crunchy finish.

How to Store Leftover Ina Garten White Bean Dip

Cool it Down First

Before you store your leftover white bean dip, let it cool to room temperature. Cooling prevents condensation that can make the dip watery.

Use an Airtight Container

Transfer the dip to an airtight container to keep it fresh for as long as possible. Airtight containers prevent the flavors from dulling by minimizing exposure to air.

Refrigeration Tips

Once sealed properly, place the dip in the refrigerator. It can last between 4 to 7 days when stored correctly, so always check before serving.

Portion and Label

If your dip is too much for one session, portion it out into smaller containers. Label each with the date so you know how long it’s been stored.

Freezing Option

While not always recommended, you can freeze the dip in a pinch. Use freezer-safe containers and be aware that the texture may change slightly upon thawing.

Stir Before Serving

When you’re ready to use the dip again, stir it well to reincorporate any separated ingredients. This helps give it a uniform texture like when it was freshly made.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the Fresh Lemon Juice

Using bottled lemon juice might seem convenient, but it can change the flavor dramatically.

Always use fresh lemon juice for that crisp, authentic taste.

Trust me, the freshness makes a huge difference in this dip!

Over-Processing

If you process the dip for too long, you might end up with a texture that’s too smooth and loses its character.

Be sure to pulse just until everything is combined.

A little texture adds the perfect touch and keeps things interesting!

Not Seasoning Enough

Don’t skimp on the salt, pepper, or any fresh herbs like parsley or basil.

Undersalting can make the dip taste bland and unmemorable.

Taste as you go and adjust until you feel you’ve reached the right balance.