Save Winter Dip: White Bean Dip with Olive Penguin Decoration A creamy, savory white bean dip perfect for winter gatherings, adorned with adorable olive penguin decorations for a festive touch.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes Cooking Time: 0 minutes Total Time: 20 minutes Category: Appetizer, Dip Difficulty: Easy Cuisine: Mediterranean Inspired Yield: 6 servings Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Ingredients
- For the White Bean Dip: 2 cups (1 can 15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- Extra virgin olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Fresh lemon juice: 2 tbsp
- Garlic: 1 clove, minced
- Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp, chopped
- Sea salt: 1/2 tsp
- Ground black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Smoked paprika (optional): 1/4 tsp
- For the Olive Penguin Decoration: 18 large black olives (whole, pitted)
- Small mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine): 6
- Large carrot: 1
- Toothpicks: 6
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a food processor, combine cannellini beans, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Process until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Step 2:
- Transfer dip to a serving bowl and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Penguin Decoration Assembly:
- Peel the carrot and cut into 12 thin coins (about 1/8 inch thick) for penguin feet. Cut 6 small triangles from additional carrot slices for beaks.
- Step 4:
- Pat the olives dry. Cut a slit lengthwise in 6 olives and gently stuff each with a mozzarella ball to form the penguins white belly.
- Step 5:
- Place a carrot coin flat on your work surface for feet. Stand the stuffed olive vertically on top.
- Step 6:
- Top with a whole olive (head). Insert a carrot triangle into the head olives pitted hole for the beak.
- Step 7:
- Secure the penguin by threading a toothpick through the head, body, and feet.
- Step 8:
- Repeat to make 6 penguins. Arrange on top of or around the white bean dip.
Save Serve with crackers, pita chips, or sliced vegetables. Wine pairing: Try with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc.
Required Tools
Food processor or blender Knife and cutting board Measuring spoons Toothpicks Serving bowl
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (mozzarella). Gluten free, but check labels on processed foods if serving those alongside. For vegan or dairy free needs, use a suitable cheese substitute.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 140 Total Fat: 6 g Carbohydrates: 15 g Protein: 6 g
Save This white bean dip brings festive charm and great taste to your winter gatherings.
Common Questions
- → How do I achieve a smooth consistency for the bean dip?
Use a food processor to blend the cannellini beans thoroughly with olive oil, lemon juice, and seasonings. Scrape the sides as needed for an even, creamy texture.
- → Can I make the olive penguin decorations ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the penguins shortly before serving to keep the olives and mozzarella fresh and prevent sogginess.
- → What can I substitute for mozzarella in the penguins for a vegan option?
Small tofu cubes or vegan cheese alternatives can replace mozzarella while maintaining the shape and texture inside the olives.
- → What is the best way to serve this dip?
Serve chilled or at room temperature alongside pita chips, crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks to complement the creamy dip and decorative penguins.
- → Is this dip suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels on accompaniments to ensure no gluten contamination.