Creamy Garlic and Herb White Bean Spread
A silky, flavorful plant-based dip infused with fragrant rosemary, warm garlic, and bright lemon juice.
Ingredients
- •2 cans (15 oz / 425g each) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- •3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (45ml), plus extra for serving
- •2 cloves garlic, minced
- •1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
- •2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (30ml)
- •1/2 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
- •1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- •1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- •2-3 tablespoons warm water (30-45ml), as needed for smooth consistency
Instructions
- 1
Heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a small skillet over medium-low heat.
- 2
Add the minced garlic and chopped fresh rosemary to the pan, sautéing for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and soft without letting the garlic brown.
- 3
Transfer the garlic and rosemary mixture into the bowl of a food processor or high-speed blender.
- 4
Add the drained cannellini beans, the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, sea salt, and black pepper to the food processor.
- 5
Purée until completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides of the bowl as necessary.
- 6
Stream in 1 tablespoon of warm water at a time while blending until you reach your desired light, spreadable texture.
- 7
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional sea salt or lemon juice if desired.
- 8
Spoon the white bean spread into a shallow bowl, make swirls on top with the back of a spoon, and garnish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and crack of black pepper.
💡 Chef tips
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Drizzle a thin layer of olive oil over the top before sealing to keep it fresh.
- Texture Trick: Warming the canned beans in warm water for 2-3 minutes before blending helps make the spread remarkably silky.
- Flavor Variation: Swap the rosemary for fresh thyme or basil, or blend in 2 tablespoons of sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet, savory variation.
✅ How it should turn out
The finished spread should be velvety smooth and pale cream in color, boasting a rich garlic-herb aroma and a savory, bright flavor.