Pin to Board 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 recipe has become a favorite at our holiday parties because it's both delicious and fun to serve with the cute olive penguins.
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:
- 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.
Pin to Board This dip has brought our family together more than once during winter celebrations with its fun presentation and great taste.
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 per serving
Pin to Board 
Enjoy this festive and tasty dip as a highlight at your next winter gathering for a memorable treat.
Common Questions
- → What type of beans are used in this dip?
Cannellini beans are used for their creamy texture and mild flavor, making the dip smooth and savory.
- → How do I assemble the olive penguin decorations?
Stuff black olives with mozzarella balls, stack them with additional olives as heads, and use carrot slices for feet and beaks, secured with toothpicks.
- → Can this dip be made vegan?
Yes, substitute vegan mozzarella or small tofu balls for the mozzarella in the olive penguins.
- → What is the best way to serve this dish?
Serve chilled or at room temperature with crackers, pita chips, or sliced vegetables for a delightful winter appetizer.
- → Are there any suggested wine pairings?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with the fresh and savory flavors of this dish.