White Bean Dip With Smoked Garlic and Caramelised Red Onion
VEGAN II SOY FREE II GLUTEN FREE II DAIRY FREE II NUT FREE II SESAME FREE II TOP 14 FREE II FISH FREE II SHELLFISH FREE II NIGHTSHADE FREE
This creamy, slightly smoky white bean dip has a touch of sweetness from caramelized red onions. Serve it as a dip, in wraps, or add it to salads. With only five ingredients, it’s quick and easy to make. If you have cannellini beans, olive oil, and a lemon, you’re already set to create this garlicky white bean dip. Just toss everything into a food processor, and you’ll have something delicious within minutes.
Lemon juice and zest add a bright, tangy flavour, while olive oil gives it a smooth, rich texture. The beans create a creamy base that’s perfect for spreading or dipping. Once it’s ready, you’ll find endless ways to enjoy it. Pair the garlicky white bean dip with carrot sticks or pita chips, spread it on sandwiches, or spoon it over your favourite bowls. You might even find yourself sneaking spoonfuls of this white bean dip straight from the container. Give this recipe a try—you’ll be hooked!
Notes on ingredients for white bean dip
Smoked garlic
If you cannot get hold of smoked garlic for this white bean dip recipe just use regular garlic. I bought my garlic from my local organic butchers but have seen them in farm shops and in some supermarkets. Look out for smoked garlic it really is worth trying to get hold of some as the smell and flavour is just sublime.
Cannellini beans/white beans
For a quicker option, go with canned cannellini beans. If you have extra time, cooking dried beans from scratch is a fantastic upgrade for this garlicky white bean dip. Simmering the beans with onion, garlic, herbs, or dried chilli adds incredible flavour, and you can adjust their texture to your liking. For this recipe, softer beans work best—cook them until they’re almost breaking apart. Once done, drain them and let them cool slightly before blending. Don’t throw out the cooking liquid! Use it instead of water to add a rich, savoury depth to the dip.
Olive oil
Extra virgin cold pressed olive oil is best, however you could use hemp or avocado oil instead.
Ingredients
Tips & FAQs for White Bean Dip
How to serve white bean dip
This dip would be great as an appetiser with crudities like carrot sticks, radishes, cucumber, and celery.
Toast some pita bread or crunchy baguettes and eat it as a yummy snack.
Slather this white bean dip in a sandwich and add falafel and salad for a healthy lunch.
Dollop some of this white bean dip in a buddha bowl. Take a look at my Mediterranean salad bowl; this white bean dip would be great with this recipe.
Can I make this white bean dip without olive oil?
Yes, swap olive oil with water, vegetable broth, or tahini for a different flavour.
What seasonings go well with this white bean dip recipe?
Optional add-ins include rosemary, cumin, or smoked paprika.
How long does this white bean dip stay fresh?
Store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it’ll stay fresh for 4-5 days.
Can you freeze white bean dip?
Yes, freeze it in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Is this white bean dip gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you don’t add ingredients like bread crumbs or flour.
Is this white bean dip dairy-free?
Yes, it is; you are fine if you do not add dairy ingredients.
What if this white bean dip is too thick?
Add water, lemon juice, or olive oil until it reaches the desired consistency.
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Serves 2 - 35 min prep & cooking time
Step by step
Recipe
1 bulb of either smoked or regular garlic
1/2 white onion, roughly chopped
2 small red onions sliced
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1/2 tsp brown sugar
salt & pepper to taste
235 g tin of cannellini beans
juice of 1/4 lemon
2 tbsp water
red chilli flakes to garnish * optional
Method
Start by pre-heating the oven to 180°C/356°F gas mark 4
Peel and roughly chop the white onion and roast for 15/20 mins till soft. At the same time, cut the garlic bulb in half and roast alongside the onions till soft. ( cover the garlic with foil) Once roasted, leave it on one side to cool.
Meanwhile, saute the red onions with 1 tsp of oil till soft, adding 1/2 tsp of brown sugar; cook till sticky and translucent. Season with salt & pepper
In a nutri bullet or food processor, add the cannellini beans, lemon juice,1 tbsp oil, water, seasoning, and white onions. Squish the garlic into the food processor and blend for a few seconds until creamy.
Spoon into a bowl top with the caramelised red onions, and sprinkle with chilli flakes.
Food shopping tips
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This blog contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase using the links. I have personally vetted and used all the products that I recommend.
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