Save to Pinterest A creamy, savory white bean dip perfect for winter gatherings, adorned with adorable olive penguin decorations for a festive touch.
This dip brings warmth to our winter gatherings and the penguin decoration is always a conversation starter with family and friends
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 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 Pinterest My family always loves gathering to assemble the olive penguins together It turns the recipe into a fun activity for all ages
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 Pinterest This white bean dip with olive penguins is a delightful winter appetizer that adds charm to any gathering
Recipe FAQs
- → What gives the dip its creamy texture?
The smooth creaminess comes from blended cannellini beans combined with extra-virgin olive oil and lemon juice, which create a rich yet light base.
- → How are the olive penguin decorations made?
They’re crafted by stuffing olives with small mozzarella balls, then stacking them with carrot slices shaped as feet and beaks, secured with toothpicks for a charming presentation.
- → Can I make this dish vegan-friendly?
Yes, substitute mozzarella with a vegan cheese alternative or small tofu cubes to keep the decorations plant-based.
- → What flavors enhance this dip?
Fresh garlic, parsley, lemon juice, sea salt, and optional smoked paprika add bright, savory, and slightly smoky notes to the dip.
- → What are good serving suggestions?
Serve chilled or at room temperature alongside crackers, pita chips, or fresh sliced vegetables for a delightful appetizer experience.