If you're on the hunt for a quick and delicious appetizer that will impress your guests, look no further! This Tomato and Cannellini Beans Dip is not only bursting with fresh Italian flavors but is also incredibly easy to whip up in just 35 minutes. Imagine creamy cannellini beans blended with juicy cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil, creating a dip that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving a tasty snack, this dip will elevate your culinary game and have everyone asking for the recipe. Ready to dive into this delightful dish? Let’s get started!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- Canned cannellini beans
- Cherry tomatoes
- Garlic
- Olive oil
- Fresh basil
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: canned cannellini beans, cherry tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, fresh basil, salt, and pepper. Ensure you have a clean workspace and the necessary kitchen tools ready, including a cutting board, knife, mixing bowl, and a blender or food processor.
- Drain and rinse the canned cannellini beans under cold water to remove excess sodium and canning liquid. Set them aside in a mixing bowl.
- Wash the cherry tomatoes thoroughly. Slice them in half to enhance their flavor and make them easier to blend. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the mixing bowl with the cannellini beans.
- Peel and finely chop 2-3 cloves of garlic, adjusting the amount according to your taste preference. Add the chopped garlic to the bowl with the beans and tomatoes.
- Drizzle approximately 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil over the mixture in the bowl. This will not only add flavor but also help in blending the dip smoothly.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a pinch of salt and a few cracks of black pepper, and adjust as needed after blending.
- Rinse a handful of fresh basil leaves under cold water, pat them dry, and then roughly chop them. Reserve a few whole leaves for garnish. Add the chopped basil to the mixing bowl.
- Using a blender or food processor, blend the mixture until it reaches your desired consistency. You can make it smooth or leave some texture, depending on your preference. If the dip is too thick, add a little more olive oil or a splash of water to help it blend.
- Taste the dip and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or basil if needed. Blend again briefly to incorporate any adjustments.
- Once the dip is ready, transfer it to a serving bowl. Drizzle a little extra olive oil on top and garnish with the reserved basil leaves for an appealing presentation.
- Serve the Tomato and Cannellini Beans Dip with an assortment of fresh vegetables, pita chips, or crusty bread. Enjoy your delicious Italian-inspired dip!
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality canned cannellini beans and ripe cherry tomatoes. Fresh ingredients make all the difference!
- Adjust Garlic to Taste: The amount of garlic can be adjusted based on your preference. Start with two cloves and add more if you love that garlicky kick!
- Experiment with Texture: If you prefer a chunkier dip, blend it less. For a creamier consistency, blend longer and consider adding a splash of water or extra olive oil.
- Herb Variations: While fresh basil is a classic addition, feel free to experiment with other herbs like parsley or oregano for a unique twist.
- Perfect Pairings: Serve your dip with a variety of dippers—think crunchy vegetables, warm pita chips, or toasted baguette slices to cater to all tastes.
- Make Ahead: This dip can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and let the flavors meld together for an even tastier experience!
- Garnish for Presentation: Don’t forget to drizzle some extra olive oil and add a few whole basil leaves on top before serving. It makes for an inviting presentation that’s sure to impress!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
