If you’re looking for a dip that’s both creamy and full of nuanced flavor, the Roasted Garlic White Bean Dip with Sage Recipe is about to become your new favorite. This gem blends the lusciousness of roasted garlic with the earthy warmth of sage and the smooth, satisfying texture of white beans, all rounded out by bright lemon notes and a touch of pine nut crunch. It’s elegant enough for entertaining but simple enough to whip up any day of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its humble, straightforward ingredients—each one plays a vital role in building the dip’s rich flavor and creamy texture without overpowering the rest.
- 1 garlic bulb: Roasting it softens the raw sharpness into a sweet, mellow garlic base that defines the dip.
- 1 tsp olive oil or avocado oil: Used to coat the garlic before roasting, bringing out its best flavor.
- ¼ cup pine nuts (optional): Adds a subtle crunch and nutty depth.
- 1 can white beans (13.5 oz, cannellini recommended), drained and rinsed: Provides the creamy, protein-packed body of the dip.
- ¼ cup soft goat cheese or cream cheese: Brings tanginess and smooth richness to the overall mouthfeel.
- 4-5 fresh sage leaves, roughly chopped: This herb infuses a distinctive earthy aroma that’s the perfect match to garlic.
- ½ tsp lemon zest: Gives a subtle burst of citrus fragrance that brightens the dip.
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice: Adds fresh, crisp acidity that balances the richer elements.
- ½ tsp fine sea salt: Enhances the natural flavors throughout the dip.
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that awakens the palate.
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Stirred in at the end to provide a silky finish and buttery notes.
- A handful fresh sage leaves, washed and dried: For sautéing to create a crisp garnish and boost the sage flavor.
- 2 tbsp butter: Used to crisp the sage leaves and add richness.
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt (omit if using salted butter): Finishes off the garnish to perfect seasoning.
How to Make Roasted Garlic White Bean Dip with Sage Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Garlic
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (205°C). Cut the top off the garlic bulb to expose the cloves, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap it tightly in foil. Roast for about 30-35 minutes until the cloves are soft and golden. This step transforms the sharp garlic into a silky, sweet flavor bomb that anchors the dip perfectly.
Step 2: Toast the Pine Nuts and Sauté Sage
While the garlic roasts, gently toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant—this only takes a few minutes. Then, melt butter in the same skillet and add the fresh sage leaves, sprinkling with salt. Cook until they crisp up nicely. This crunchy, buttery garnish adds a beautiful contrast when you serve the dip.
Step 3: Blend the Dip
In a food processor, combine the softened roasted garlic cloves, drained white beans, goat cheese, roughly chopped sage leaves, lemon zest, lemon juice, sea salt, and pepper. Pulse until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. Then slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while blending to get that perfect silky texture.
Step 4: Final Touches
Give the dip a final taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If the texture is too thick, add a splash of water or more olive oil to loosen it. Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and top with the toasted pine nuts and crisp sage leaves for a gorgeous presentation that’s full of flavor and texture.
How to Serve Roasted Garlic White Bean Dip with Sage Recipe
Garnishes
Those crispy sage leaves and toasted pine nuts on top aren’t just pretty—they add irresistible texture and an herbaceous pop that complements the creamy dip beautifully. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil just before serving makes everything look glistening and flavorful.
Side Dishes
This dip pairs amazing with crusty bread, warm pita chips, or fresh vegetable sticks. It also shines as part of a mezze platter alongside olives, marinated artichokes, and roasted red peppers for a Mediterranean-inspired spread that impresses every time.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Roasted Garlic White Bean Dip with Sage Recipe in individual mini bowls or cups for easy snacking at parties, or scoop it into hollowed-out roasted eggplant or pepper halves for a stunning appetizer. It’s also fantastic dolloped onto crostini and topped with a sprinkle of chili flakes for a little heat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep any leftover dip covered tightly in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors will actually deepen overnight, making it just as delicious or even better the next day.
Freezing
Freezing is possible, but keep in mind the texture may change slightly. Use an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw slowly in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
The dip is best served cold or at room temperature, but if you want to warm it slightly, do so gently in a microwave or over a double boiler to avoid drying it out. Stir well before serving.
FAQs
Can I use other types of beans for this dip?
Absolutely! While cannellini beans provide a creamy texture and mild flavor, great alternatives include Great Northern or navy beans. Just make sure to rinse and drain canned beans well to avoid excess salt.
Is the pine nut garnish necessary?
Not at all. Pine nuts add lovely texture and a subtle nutty note, but if you’re allergic or don’t have any, feel free to omit them or swap in toasted walnuts or almonds for a different crunch.
Can I make this dip vegan?
Yes! Substitute goat cheese with a plant-based cream cheese or silken tofu, and swap butter for olive oil when crisping the sage. The result will still be flavorful and creamy.
How long does it take to roast the garlic?
Typically 30-35 minutes at 400°F, or until the cloves become soft and golden. Roasting time can vary slightly based on your oven and the size of the garlic bulb.
What is the best way to serve this dip at a gathering?
Serve it with an assortment of crackers, breadsticks, fresh vegetable crudités, or warm pita chips to let guests enjoy dipping. Place on a colorful platter with the garnishes visible—it always draws people in!
Final Thoughts
This Roasted Garlic White Bean Dip with Sage Recipe is one of those rare finds that’s simple yet deeply satisfying, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, it’s a deliciously creamy, herbaceous dip that feels like a little gourmet indulgence every time. Give it a try—I promise it will become a staple in your kitchen just like it is in mine!
PrintRoasted Garlic White Bean Dip with Sage Recipe
This Roasted Garlic White Bean Dip with Sage is a creamy, flavorful appetizer perfect for any occasion. Roasting the garlic gives it a sweet, mellow flavor that blends beautifully with creamy white beans, tangy goat cheese, and aromatic fresh sage. Enhanced with pine nuts for texture and lemon for brightness, this dip pairs wonderfully with crackers, fresh vegetables, or toasted bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: About 1 ½ cups (serves 6-8 as appetizer)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Roasted Garlic
- 1 garlic bulb
- 1 tsp olive oil or avocado oil
Dip Base
- 1 can of white beans, drained and rinsed (13.5 oz; cannellini beans recommended)
- ¼ cup soft goat cheese (or cream cheese)
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt (omit if using salted butter)
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- ½ tsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Additional Ingredients
- ¼ cup pine nuts (optional)
- 4–5 fresh sage leaves, roughly chopped
- A handful of fresh sage leaves, washed and thoroughly dried
- 2 tbsp butter
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt (omit if using salted butter)
Instructions
- Roast the Garlic: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the top off the garlic bulb, drizzle with olive or avocado oil, wrap it in foil, and roast for 30-35 minutes until soft and caramelized. Let it cool, then squeeze out the softened cloves.
- Toast Pine Nuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts by stirring frequently until golden and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Sage: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the handful of fresh sage leaves and ¼ tsp salt. Fry until the leaves are crispy and golden, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the leaves and drain on paper towels. Keep the infused butter for the dip.
- Blend the Dip: In a food processor, combine the roasted garlic cloves, drained white beans, goat cheese, roughly chopped sage leaves, lemon zest, lemon juice, sea salt, black pepper, and the sage-infused butter. Blend until smooth, gradually adding extra virgin olive oil to reach desired creaminess.
- Finish with Pine Nuts: Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and top with toasted pine nuts and the crispy sage leaves for texture and garnish.
- Serve: Chill if desired or serve at room temperature with crackers, toasted bread, or cut vegetables.
Notes
- Using goat cheese adds a tangy richness, but cream cheese can be substituted for a milder flavor.
- Pine nuts are optional but add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor.
- Roasting garlic mellows its sharpness and adds sweetness; don’t skip this step for best flavor.
- Adjust lemon juice and zest to taste, depending on your preference for acidity.
- This dip keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a vegan version, substitute butter with olive oil and use vegan cream cheese.
