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.
This dip has become a holiday favorite in my family, especially loved by kids who enjoy making the penguin decorations.
Ingredients
- For the White Bean Dip: 2 cups (1 can, 15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- For the White Bean Dip: 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- For the White Bean Dip: 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- For the White Bean Dip: 1 clove garlic, minced
- For the White Bean Dip: 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- For the White Bean Dip: 1/2 tsp sea salt
- For the White Bean Dip: 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- For the White Bean Dip: 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- For the Olive Penguin Decoration: 18 large black olives (whole, pitted)
- For the Olive Penguin Decoration: 6 small mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- For the Olive Penguin Decoration: 1 large carrot
- For the Olive Penguin Decoration: 6 toothpicks
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 Step 3:
- 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.
- Penguin Decoration Assembly 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.
- Penguin Decoration Assembly Step 5:
- Place a carrot coin flat on your work surface for feet. Stand the stuffed olive vertically on top.
- Penguin Decoration Assembly Step 6:
- Top with a whole olive (head). Insert a carrot triangle into the head olives pitted hole for the beak.
- Penguin Decoration Assembly Step 7:
- Secure the penguin by threading a toothpick through the head, body, and feet.
- Penguin Decoration Assembly Step 8:
- Repeat to make 6 penguins. Arrange on top of or around the white bean dip.
Save Making these penguin decorations together is a fun family activity that always brings smiles and laughter.
Notes
For a vegan version, substitute vegan mozzarella or small balls of tofu for the mozzarella. Garnish the dip with extra parsley or a drizzle of olive oil for added color. 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
Nutritional Information
Calories 140 Total Fat 6 g Carbohydrates 15 g Protein 6 g per serving
Save This white bean dip is perfect for any winter gathering and the olive penguins add a whimsical touch that guests love.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What ingredients create the creamy texture?
The smooth texture comes from blending drained cannellini beans with olive oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic.
- → How are the olive penguins made?
Stuff black olives with small mozzarella balls, stack with additional olives, and use carrot pieces and toothpicks to assemble the penguin shapes.
- → Can this dish be made vegan-friendly?
Yes, substitute the mozzarella with vegan cheese or tofu balls to keep the decorative penguins dairy-free.
- → What sides pair well with this dip?
Try serving with pita chips, crackers, or fresh sliced vegetables for a complementary crunch.
- → Is there a recommended wine pairing?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc pairs nicely, highlighting the dip’s bright lemon and herb notes.