Ina Garten White Bean Dip Recipe

Making Ina Garten’s white bean dip is a breeze, and you’ll find it’s a delightful comfort food that can be whipped up with minimal fuss.

You simply need a food processor and a handful of simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry.

I’ve found that using high-quality olive oil makes a noticeable difference in the depth of flavor, so that’s one tip worth remembering when you prepare it.

This recipe is one of my favorites because it’s not just easy to make, but it also offers a rich and creamy texture that pairs perfectly with crispy pita chips or fresh vegetables.

How to Make Ina Garten’s White Bean Dip

Creating Ina Garten’s white bean dip is a simple process that requires basic ingredients and a few steps.

Ingredients

• 1 can Cannellini Beans (15 oz.)
• 3 tbsp Olive Oil
• 2 tbsp Lemon Juice
• 1 clove Garlic
• 3 tbsp Fresh Parsley (chopped)
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F.

Step 2:

In a food processor, combine the Cannellini Beans, Garlic, Lemon Juice, 2 tbsp Olive Oil, and Fresh Parsley.

Step 3:

Pulse the mixture until a coarse, chunky texture is achieved.

Step 4:

Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and drizzle the remaining 1 tbsp Olive Oil on top.

This dip is perfect for serving up to 6 people and comes together in about 10 minutes of preparation time.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Olive Oil Quality

Using high-quality extra-virgin olive oil lends a rich flavor to the dip.

Lemon Juice Freshness

Fresh lemon juice will give the dip a bright, fresh taste compared to bottled juice.

Garlic Adjustment

If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, you can roast the garlic first or use less raw garlic.

Remember, you’re making a dip that should be both comforting and rich in flavors. Enjoy sharing this dish with your friends and family.

What to Serve with Ina Garten White Bean Dip

Crusty Bread

You can’t go wrong with some warm, crusty bread to scoop up this delicious dip.

Fresh Veggies

Chopped vegetables like carrots, cucumber, and bell peppers make for a refreshing partner to the creamy bean dip.

Pita Chips

For a bit of crunch, pita chips are a fantastic choice.

Mashed Potatoes

Try swirling the white bean dip into your mashed potatoes for an unexpected twist on two comforting dishes.

Rice Cakes

Rice cakes offer a light and gluten-free option that pairs surprisingly well with the dip’s flavors.

Sliced Apples

The crispness of fresh apple slices contrasts beautifully with the richness of the bean dip, adding a sweet note.

Variations and Substitutions

Beans

If you don’t have cannellini beans, great northern beans or navy beans are good substitutes.

White beans are the base, but you can vary them as your pantry allows.

Flavorings

You might enjoy adding basil or rosemary to switch up the flavors.

Lemon zest brings a bright touch, and it’s easy to add along with the juice.

Olive Oil

Extra-virgin olive oil gives a rich flavor, but a light olive oil will also work in a pinch.

Consider the olive oil’s flavor profile; a peppery one can change the dip’s character.

Consistency

For a thicker dip, reduce the amount of olive oil slightly.

Add more olive oil gradually if you prefer a smoother, more spreadable consistency.

Serving

Swap out the standard serving bowl for hollowed bell peppers for a fun twist.

Serve it with a drizzle of olive oil on top and a sprinkle of coarse salt.

How to Store Leftover Ina Garten White Bean Dip

In the Refrigerator

You can keep the leftover white bean dip fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Make sure to store it in an airtight container to preserve its flavors.

I find that a shallow container helps the dip cool evenly.

In the Freezer

For long-term storage, the dip can be frozen.

Use a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.

Your dip will last for about 3 months when stored in the freezer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Beans

Be vigilant with your cooking time; nobody likes mushy beans in their dip.

Seasoning Balance

Remember, you can always add more seasoning, but you can’t take it out.

Don’t be shy with the salt, but taste as you go!

Crush Carefully

Be gentle when you crush your garlic; overdoing it can turn it bitter.

Oil Quality

The olive oil you choose really matters in a simple dish like this.

Blender Speed

Pulse don’t blend – remember, it’s a dip not a puree!