Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful and nutritious Warm Spinach-White Bean Dip with Crudites. This creamy dip combines the goodness of baby spinach, ricotta, and cannellini beans, making it a healthy and delicious option for parties or snacks. Paired with fresh, colorful crudites like carrots, radishes, and cauliflower, this dish is perfect for serving guests or enjoying as a guilt-free treat.
A creamy, savory warm dip made with spinach and white beans, served with fresh, crunchy crudités for a wholesome, flavorful appetizer.
Ingredients
For the Dip:
5 ounces baby spinach (3 cups)
1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh chives
1 1/2 teaspoons lemon zest
1 1/4 teaspoons coarse salt
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Crudites:
1 fennel bulb, halved and thinly sliced
1 bunch radishes (about 6), halved, greens trimmed but left intact
12 small carrots, greens trimmed but left intact
1/2 large head cauliflower (about 1 pound), cut into florets and thinly sliced
3 stalks celery, halved lengthwise and then crosswise
Directions
Prepare the dip: In a large skillet, sauté the baby spinach over medium heat until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
In a food processor, combine the ricotta cheese, cannellini beans, chopped chives, lemon zest, and sautéed spinach. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Season with coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Warm the dip: Transfer the dip to a small ovenproof dish and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-12 minutes until heated through, or until slightly bubbly on top.
Prepare the crudites: While the dip is warming, arrange the sliced fennel, radishes, carrots, cauliflower, and celery on a serving platter.
Serve: Once the dip is warm, serve it immediately with the fresh crudites for dipping.
This Warm Spinach-White Bean Dip with Crudites offers a healthy, flavorful snack option that’s perfect for any gathering. The creamy, zesty dip pairs beautifully with fresh, crunchy vegetables, making it an ideal appetizer for those looking for a nutritious and delicious option. Enjoy the balance of textures and flavors in every bite!