Save to Pins A creamy, savory white bean dip perfect for winter gatherings, adorned with adorable olive penguin decorations for a festive touch.
I first made this dip for a winter party and the olive penguins were a huge hit with both kids and adults
Ingredients
- 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)
- Olive Penguin Decoration: 18 large black olives (whole pitted), 6 small mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), 1 large carrot, 6 toothpicks
Instructions
- White Bean Dip Preparation:
- 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
- Serving:
- 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 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 Place a carrot coin flat on your work surface for feet Stand the stuffed olive vertically on top Top with a whole olive (head) Insert a carrot triangle into the head olives pitted hole for the beak Secure the penguin by threading a toothpick through the head body and feet Repeat to make 6 penguins Arrange on top of or around the white bean dip
Save to Pins Sharing this dip with family always brings smiles especially watching kids admire the cute penguins
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
Save to Pins This dip is a simple festive treat that delights guests and adds charm to any winter gathering
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I achieve a creamy texture in the white bean dip?
Processing the cannellini beans thoroughly with olive oil and lemon juice in a food processor ensures a smooth, creamy consistency with balanced flavors.
- → Can I prepare the olive penguin decorations ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the decorations a few hours prior and keep them covered in the refrigerator until serving to maintain freshness.
- → What can I substitute for mozzarella in the olive penguins for a vegan option?
Use small tofu cubes or vegan cheese alternatives to replace mozzarella while maintaining the creamy center effect.
- → Are there any tips for making the carrot beaks and feet for the penguins?
Cut the carrot into thin coins for feet and small triangles for beaks; using a sharp knife helps create clean shapes for easy assembly.
- → What are suitable serving suggestions for this dip?
Serve with pita chips, crackers, or sliced vegetables to complement the creamy texture and festive presentation.
- → Is this dish gluten-free and suitable for most diets?
Yes, it is gluten-free and vegetarian by default. Substitutions can make it vegan-friendly as well.