Butter Bean Dip: Creamy, Savory, and Perfect for Dipping!

Butter bean dip is a creamy, savory delight you'll want to dive right into! Blending canned or cooked butter beans with garlic, olive oil, and zesty seasonings, this versatile appetizer offers a protein-packed treat that's as easy to prepare as it is delicious to enjoy. Pair it with crackers, pita bread, or fresh veggies for a crowd-pleasing snack that'll have your taste buds singing. Whether you're looking for a guilt-free indulgence or a healthy addition to your meal, this butter bean dip is sure to become a new staple in your culinary repertoire. And if you keep reading, you'll discover even more creative ways to enjoy this creamy, savory delight.

Key Takeaways

• Butter bean dip is a versatile and flavorful appetizer that can be paired with crackers, pita bread, or fresh vegetables.
• The dip is made with canned or cooked butter beans, providing a creamy texture, and is seasoned with garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, cumin, and smoked paprika.
• Butter beans are a nutritious ingredient, rich in fiber, protein, and healthy fats, making the dip a guilt-free indulgence.
• The dip can be served in various ways, such as a dip, a spread on sandwiches or wraps, or a topping for baked potatoes.
• The recipe can be easily customized by experimenting with different herbs, spices, and added ingredients like roasted garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, or feta cheese.

History

The butter bean, also known as the lima bean, has a rich history dating back to pre-Columbian civilizations in Central and South America. These nutritious legumes were a staple food for ancient cultures, providing a reliable source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.

Over time, the butter bean's popularity spread, and it was eventually introduced to Europe and other parts of the world.

Today, butter beans are enjoyed in a variety of dishes, from hearty stews to delectable dips like the one you're about to create. Their creamy texture and mild, slightly sweet flavor make them a versatile ingredient that can be easily incorporated into both savory and sweet recipes.

As you prepare your own butter bean dip, you'll be tapping into a culinary tradition that spans centuries and cultures, bringing a touch of history to your table.

Recipe

Butter bean dip is a versatile and flavorful appetizer that can be enjoyed with a variety of crackers, pita bread, or fresh vegetables. This creamy, protein-packed dip is a delicious way to incorporate more legumes into your diet.

The key to a smooth and creamy butter bean dip is to use canned or cooked butter beans. These tender, buttery beans provide the base for the dip, while a blend of savory seasonings and a touch of citrus brighten the flavors. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this tasty dip in no time.

• 2 (15 oz) cans of butter beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon of smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste

In a food processor or high-powered blender, combine the drained and rinsed butter beans, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, cumin, and smoked paprika. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

For best results, let the butter bean dip chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve the dip with your favorite crackers, pita bread, or fresh vegetables.

This dip can also be used as a spread on sandwiches or as a topping for baked potatoes. Enjoy!

Cooking Steps

Start by draining and rinsing those canned butter beans.

Next, combine the beans, garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil in a food processor. Blend it all up until it's smooth and creamy, then season with your favorite spices.

Don't forget to finish it off with a sprinkle of fresh, chopped parsley on top!

Step 1. Drain and Rinse Canned Butter Beans

Firstly, drain the canned butter beans over a colander, allowing the liquid to run off.

You'll want to give those beans a good rinse under cool running water, too. This'll help remove any leftover brine or canning liquid. You don't want that interfering with your dip's flavor!

Next, give the beans a gentle pat dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.

You don't need to obsess over getting them 100% dry, but you do want to remove any excess moisture. Wet beans can make your dip watery and less creamy.

With your beans prepped, you're ready to start blending up that dreamy, flavor-packed butter bean dip!

The drained and rinsed beans will create a luscious, smooth texture when you puree them.

Get excited – your taste buds are in for a real treat. Time to get dipping!

Step 2. Combine Beans, Garlic, and Olive Oil

With your beans prepped, the next step is to combine them with garlic and olive oil.

In a food processor or blender, add the drained and rinsed butter beans, along with 3 cloves of minced garlic and 2 tablespoons of your best extra-virgin olive oil.

Pulse the mixture a few times, scraping down the sides as needed, until it transforms into a smooth, creamy dip. The beans will mash easily, creating a luscious, spreadable texture.

The pungent garlic and rich olive oil will infuse the dip with savory, aromatic flavor. Keep blending until the consistency is to your liking – you want it to be nicely smooth, but still with a bit of rustic charm.

Transfer the butter bean dip to a serving bowl, ready to be enjoyed as a tasty appetizer or healthy snack.

The creamy, garlicky goodness will have everyone reaching for more.

Step 3. Blend Until Smooth and Creamy

The blending process transforms the butter beans, garlic, and olive oil into a silky-smooth, velvety dip.

Using a high-powered blender or food processor, you'll want to blend the ingredients for about 2-3 minutes, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.

Regular maintenance of your kitchen appliances ensures they function optimally, which can enhance your cooking experience.

The key is to blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, with no visible chunks or graininess.

As the blades whirl, the beans will break down, and the garlic and olive oil will emulsify, creating a rich, luxurious texture.

Feel free to add a splash of water or more olive oil if the dip seems too thick.

Keep blending until you achieve the perfect, luscious consistency – one that'll have your guests dipping in again and again.

The smooth, creamy result is sure to delight the senses and have everyone coming back for more of this irresistible butter bean dip.

Step 4. Season With Spices

Once the butter beans have been blended into a silky-smooth dip, you can now season it with a variety of spices to enhance the flavor.

A pinch of smoked paprika will lend a subtle sweetness and depth, while a dash of garlic powder and onion powder will round out the savory notes.

Don't be afraid to get creative – a sprinkle of cumin or chili powder can add a wonderful kick of warmth. Freshly ground black pepper is a must, providing a peppery zing that perfectly balances the creamy texture.

Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the overall flavor. Stir everything together until the spices are well incorporated, then give the dip a taste.

Adjust the seasonings as needed, adding more of your favorite spices until it reaches your desired level of perfection.

With just a few simple seasonings, you can transform this basic butter bean dip into a flavor-packed delight that's sure to impress.

Step 5. Garnish With Chopped Parsley

To finish the butter bean dip, finely chop a handful of fresh parsley leaves. The vibrant green specks of this fragrant herb will add a lovely pop of color and a burst of flavor to your creamy, savory dip.

Gently sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top of the dip, dispersing it evenly for maximum impact. The parsley's delicate, slightly peppery taste will complement the rich, creamy texture of the butter beans perfectly.

Now, invite your friends and family to gather around and dip in! Scoop up the parsley-flecked dip with crisp veggies, pita chips, or crackers.

The cool, refreshing parsley will balance the dip's savory notes, making each bite utterly delightful. As you enjoy this simple yet flavorful appetizer, savor the way the parsley brightens and elevates the entire dish.

This little finishing touch takes the butter bean dip from good to great, so don't skip it!

Final Thoughts

Although butter bean dip may not be the most common or well-known appetizer, it's a delightfully creamy and versatile option that's worth exploring. The rich, savory flavor of the butter beans pairs beautifully with the tanginess of the lemon juice and the warmth of the garlic.

Plus, it's incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients that you can likely find in your pantry.

Once you've whipped up a batch, the possibilities are endless. Serve it as a dip with crunchy veggies, pita chips, or crusty bread, or use it as a spread on sandwiches or wraps.

It also makes a fantastic topping for baked potatoes or grilled chicken. And don't be afraid to get creative – you can customize the flavor by adding your favorite herbs and spices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Canned Butter Beans Instead of Dried?

Absolutely! You can use canned butter beans instead of dried in your recipe. Canned beans are already cooked, so they'll save you the time and effort of soaking and boiling the dried ones. Go ahead and give it a try!

How Long Does the Dip Keep in the Fridge?

The butter bean dip will keep in the fridge for up to 4-5 days when stored in an airtight container. Be sure to give it a good stir before serving to recombine the ingredients.

Can I Make This Dip Vegan or Gluten-Free?

You can definitely make this dip vegan or gluten-free. Simply swap out the dairy-based ingredients for plant-based ones and choose gluten-free crackers or veggies for dipping. It's a versatile recipe that can accommodate various dietary needs.

What Are Some Tasty Dippers to Serve With the Dip?

You can serve this delicious dip with an array of tasty dippers. Try crunchy veggies like carrot sticks, celery, and cucumber slices. Toasted pita chips or whole grain crackers also make excellent companions. The possibilities are endless!

Can I Adjust the Seasoning to My Taste Preferences?

Absolutely! You can adjust the seasoning to suit your personal taste preferences. Feel free to add more or less of the herbs and spices, depending on your flavor preferences. This allows you to make the dip just the way you like it.