About the Recipe
This fresh and zesty white bean spread is a simple, protein-rich dip inspired by Mediterranean flavours. Creamy cannellini beans are blended with lemon, olive oil, and garlic, then brightened with parsley and mint for a vibrant finish. It’s quick to prepare, versatile, and perfect for sharing as a dip, sandwich spread, or light appetizer.
Ingredients
Base Spread:
• 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed well (about 240 g drained weight)
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for serving
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp finely grated lemon zest
• 1 small garlic clove
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1–2 tbsp water, as needed
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1–2 tsp fresh mint, finely chopped
Optional Additions:
• 1 tbsp nutritional yeast
• Toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds (for topping)
Preparation
Step 1 - Blend Base
Add the drained and rinsed beans, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, salt, black pepper, and optional nutritional yeast to a food processor. Blend until mostly smooth.
Step 2 - Adjust Texture
Add 1 tbsp water and blend again. If needed, add more water gradually until the spread is smooth, creamy, and spreadable while still thick.
Step 3 - Add Herbs
Stir in the parsley and mint, or pulse briefly if you prefer the herbs more blended into the spread.
Step 4 - Taste & Adjust
Taste and adjust with additional lemon juice, salt, or olive oil if needed.
Step 5 - Serve
Transfer to a serving bowl or shallow plate. Finish with a drizzle of olive oil, extra herbs, cracked black pepper, and optional toasted seeds.
Tip: Start with 1 tsp mint, taste, and only add the second tsp if you want a fresher mint note.