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This Roasted Garlic White Bean Dip with Tahini is a powerhouse of flavor and nutrition wrapped in simplicity.
The magic lies in the slow-roasted garlic—it infuses the dip with a rich, mellow depth that complements the earthy beans and nutty tahini perfectly.
High in plant-based protein and fiber, this dip is not only satisfying but also supports digestive health and sustained energy.
The low saturated fat profile and use of heart-healthy olive oil make it a smart choice for anyone seeking a lighter, whole-food snack or spread.
Plus, it’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and low-carb, checking off multiple dietary boxes.
With just a handful of ingredients and minimal hands-on time, this dip is ideal for weekly meal prep, quick lunches, or as an easy, wholesome party appetizer.
Its creamy texture and garlicky aroma make it incredibly craveable, whether served with veggies, pita, or dolloped onto grain bowls.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Cuisinart 8-Cup Food Processor
This powerful food processor ensures your dip comes out ultra-smooth and creamy. The S blade effortlessly blends beans and tahini, making it perfect for dips, hummus, sauces, and even doughs.
Nordic Ware Aluminum Baking Sheet
Perfect for roasting garlic evenly without warping in high heat. Its durability and versatility make it a go-to for baking vegetables, cookies, or even sheet pan meals.
USA Pan Garlic Roasting Set
While optional, a dedicated garlic roaster helps caramelize garlic cloves evenly, locking in flavor. A great tool for garlic lovers who roast often and want consistent results.
OXO Good Grips Citrus Squeezer
Extracts every drop of juice from lemons with ease, enhancing the freshness of your dip. Ideal for anyone who frequently uses citrus in cooking, cocktails, or marinades.
Stainless Steel Measuring Spoons
Accurate measuring is key for balancing tahini and lemon juice. A durable set ensures consistent flavor in every batch, and they’re essential for all baking and cooking needs.
Roasted Garlic White Bean Dip
Equipment
- 1 Food processor (with S blade)
- 1 Baking Sheet
- 1 Aluminum foil
- 1 Garlic roaster (optional)
- 1 Measuring spoons set
- 1 Citrus squeezer
Ingredients
- 1 whole bulb of garlic top sliced off to expose cloves
- ½ teaspoon olive oil optional
- 1½ cups cooked cannellini or Great Northern beans 240g or one 15-ounce can
- 1½ tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons tahini
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon sea salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 –4 tablespoons reserved bean liquid from the can
Instructions
- Roast the Garlic Until Soft and Sweet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut off the top of a whole garlic bulb to expose the tops of the cloves. Drizzle with olive oil if desired. Wrap the bulb in aluminum foil and place it on a baking tray. Roast for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the cloves are golden brown and buttery soft when pierced. If needed, roast for an additional 5–10 minutes. Allow it to cool slightly before handling.
- Reserve and Drain the Beans: Open the canned beans and drain them, reserving about ¼ cup (60ml) of the canning liquid. Don’t rinse the beans—this liquid helps make the dip extra creamy.
- Blend the Dip to Creamy Perfection: Transfer the drained beans to a food processor fitted with an S-blade. Add the lemon juice, tahini, sea salt, and black pepper. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of the bulb directly into the bowl. Process the mixture while slowly streaming in 2 tablespoons of the reserved bean liquid through the top of the processor. Scrape down the sides and blend again until silky and smooth. If needed, add more of the reserved liquid a little at a time to reach your desired consistency.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Give the dip a final taste—adjust with extra salt, lemon, or pepper as needed. Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish with a drizzle of olive oil or herbs if desired, and serve.
Notes
- Roasted garlic tip: You can roast several bulbs at once and store extras in the fridge for up to a week. Perfect for other dips, pastas, or spreading on toast.
- Make it oil-free: Simply skip the olive oil. Roasting the garlic without oil still delivers deliciously rich flavor.
- Bean options: Cannellini or Great Northern beans work best, but navy beans or chickpeas can also be used in a pinch.
- Storage: Store the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It can thicken over time, so stir in a splash of water or lemon juice before serving if needed.
- Serving ideas: This dip is delicious with fresh veggies, pita wedges, crackers, or spread inside sandwiches and wraps.
Chef’s Secrets to Better Flavor
To elevate the flavor of this simple dip, start with properly roasted garlic—it’s the heart of the recipe.
Roasting transforms garlic from sharp and pungent to buttery and sweet. Be patient and allow the garlic to fully caramelize in the oven until golden and soft; under-roasting will leave it too bitter.
Don’t skip the tahini—it adds a luxurious creaminess and subtle nuttiness that brings balance to the earthiness of the white beans.
While canned beans are a quick fix, using home-cooked beans from scratch can add even more depth and texture.
Lastly, taste as you blend—adjust lemon juice, salt, and pepper to find that perfect balance of brightness, creaminess, and savoriness.
A splash of reserved bean liquid makes a huge difference in achieving a silky texture, so don’t be afraid to tweak the consistency to your liking.
Serving Suggestions and Pairing Ideas
This white bean dip is incredibly versatile and fits into almost any meal or occasion.
Serve it chilled or at room temperature with raw vegetables like cucumber, bell pepper, or carrots for a refreshing snack.
For something heartier, pair it with warm pita bread, whole grain crackers, or sourdough toast.
It also works beautifully as a sandwich spread, lending creaminess to veggie wraps or roasted veggie paninis.
As a party appetizer, spoon it into a shallow bowl, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with paprika or za’atar, and serve with a basket of dippers.
Want to turn it into a meal? Add it to grain bowls, nourish bowls, or as a topping for baked sweet potatoes.
Its mellow garlic flavor and smooth texture make it an easy companion to many dishes.
Storage Tips for Freshness
To keep your white bean dip fresh and flavorful, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
It will last for up to 5 days without any noticeable change in taste or texture.
The dip may thicken as it chills, so simply stir in a teaspoon of water or lemon juice before serving to restore its smooth consistency.
For longer storage, portion it out into small containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and stir well before serving.
Avoid freezing in glass containers unless they are freezer-safe to prevent cracking.
Always use clean utensils when scooping the dip to avoid contamination and extend its shelf life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use chickpeas instead of white beans?
Yes, chickpeas can be used as a substitute, but the dip will have a slightly different texture and flavor. White beans are softer and creamier, which is ideal for a smooth dip, while chickpeas may result in a thicker, slightly grainier consistency.
2. What if I don’t have tahini?
If you’re out of tahini, you can substitute it with a mild nut butter like cashew or almond butter. These will still add creaminess but bring a different flavor profile. For a more neutral result, plain unsweetened Greek yogurt (for non-vegan versions) works in a pinch.
3. Do I need to use the bean liquid?
The reserved bean liquid, also known as aquafaba, helps make the dip extra creamy without adding extra oil. It also helps bind and emulsify the ingredients. If you prefer, you can use water, broth, or even a bit more lemon juice as an alternative.
4. Can I roast the garlic ahead of time?
Absolutely! Roasted garlic can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s fully cooled before storing.
5. Is this dip suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this dip is a fantastic meal prep option. It’s easy to make in large batches, holds well in the fridge, and can be used in a variety of meals throughout the week—from snacks to sandwiches to bowls.
This recipe is inspired by thefullhelping and has been carefully refined to enhance clarity, streamline preparation steps, and ensure accurate results. We’ve also included health benefits, nutritional highlights, and Must-Have Tools to help you get the best results every time you cook.