Save Pin A creamy, savory white bean dip perfect for winter gatherings, adorned with adorable olive penguin decorations for a festive touch.
This dip is always a hit at our winter parties, especially with the cute penguin garnishes.
Ingredients
- For the 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)
- For the Olive Penguin Decoration: 18 large black olives (whole pitted), 6 small mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), 1 large carrot, 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.
- 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 Pin This recipe always brings my family together especially during the holidays when everyone loves the penguin decorations.
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 Pin This simple dip adds a festive touch to any gathering and is easy to prepare in advance.
Recipe FAQs
- → What beans are best for a creamy texture?
Cannellini beans are ideal due to their smooth, mild flavor that blends easily for a creamy consistency.
- → How can I make the olive penguin decorations stable?
Using toothpicks to secure olives, mozzarella, and carrot pieces ensures the penguins stand firmly on the dip.
- → Can this dish be adapted for vegan diets?
Yes, replacing mozzarella with vegan cheese or tofu balls creates a vegan-friendly version without compromising texture.
- → What enhances the dip’s flavor profile?
Fresh lemon juice, garlic, parsley, and a touch of smoked paprika balance richness with bright and smoky notes.
- → What are good pairings for this dip?
Crackers, pita chips, and fresh sliced vegetables complement the creamy white bean blend and festive penguin garnish.