Pin It 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 was a hit at our last winter party and made the gathering extra special with the cute penguin decorations.
Ingredients
- White Bean Dip: 2 cups (1 can, 15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed, 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1 clove garlic, minced, 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, 1/2 tsp sea salt, 1/4 tsp ground black pepper, 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Olive Penguin Decoration: 18 large black olives (whole, pitted), 6 small mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), 1 large carrot, 6 toothpicks
Instructions
- Prepare Dip:
- 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.
- Serve Dip:
- 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. 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. Place a carrot coin flat on your work surface for feet. Stand the stuffed olive vertically on top. Top with a whole olive (head). Insert a carrot triangle into the head olives pitted hole for the beak. Secure the penguin by threading a toothpick through the head, body, and feet. Repeat to make 6 penguins. Arrange on top of or around the white bean dip.
Pin It My family loves gathering around this dip because it is both delicious and fun to eat with the penguin decorations bringing smiles to all.
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 per serving, Total Fat: 6 g, Carbohydrates: 15 g, Protein: 6 g
Pin It This will quickly become a favorite dip for winter parties and special occasions.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What beans are ideal for this dish?
Cannellini beans work best due to their creamy texture and mild flavor, providing a smooth base.
- → Can I prepare this without dairy?
Yes, substitute mozzarella with vegan cheese or tofu to maintain the decorative penguin shapes.
- → How do I make the olive penguin decorations?
Stuff black olives with small mozzarella balls, add carrot slices for feet and beaks, and secure with toothpicks for a festive presentation.
- → What is the best way to serve this dish?
Serve chilled or at room temperature alongside crackers, pita chips, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
- → Are there any recommended pairings?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or other light, refreshing wines complement the creamy and herbal notes well.