If you are looking for a festive, flavorful, and visually stunning appetizer to brighten up any gathering, the Tree-Shaped Cannellini Bean Dip with Pesto and Veggie Toppings Recipe is an absolute showstopper. This delightful dip blends creamy cannellini beans and tangy reduced-fat cream cheese into a smooth base, topped with vibrant pesto and an assortment of colorful veggies artfully arranged to resemble a festive tree. It is not only delicious but also a fun and healthy way to impress your guests or add some cheer to your snack table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white oval plate holds a Christmas tree shaped dip with four layers. The bottom layer is a white creamy spread covering a triangular tree shape. On top is a thick green pesto layer filling the tree evenly. Scattered over the green layer are small white cheese crumbles. Across the tree, there are rows of chopped red bell peppers and small beige artichoke pieces arranged in a zigzag pattern. Black olive slices are placed as round decorations around the tree. At the top, a bright yellow star-shaped piece sits as the tree topper. Small red round pieces around the tree look like ornaments, and the tree trunk is made from a dark red bell pepper strip at the base. The plate is set on a white marbled surface with a yellow cloth and a wooden spoon nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe shines because of its simple, fresh, and thoughtfully selected ingredients. Each component adds necessary flavor, texture, and visual appeal, making every bite harmonious and exciting.

Cannellini beans, 1 (14.5-ounce) can: Provides a creamy, protein-rich base with a mild flavor that pairs perfectly with herbs and veggies.
Reduced-fat cream cheese (8-ounce block): Adds richness and smoothness without overwhelming the lightness of the beans.
Kosher salt, ¼ teaspoon: Balances flavors and enhances the natural taste of the ingredients.
Fresh or refrigerated pesto, ¼ – ⅓ cup: Brings bright herbal notes and a beautiful green color that represents the tree’s foliage.
Yellow bell pepper (for the star): Offers a sweet crunch and vibrant top decoration; you can also use a star-shaped cracker for a fun twist.
Rectangular slice of brownish or purple-black pepper (for the tree trunk): Creates a natural-looking trunk with a slightly smoky taste; alternatively, use a brown, rectangular cracker.
Chopped artichoke hearts, ½ cup: Tender bites with a subtle tang to add depth to the topping layer.
Chopped jarred roasted red peppers, ½ cup: Adds color, sweetness, and a smoky undertone.
Kalamata olives, sliced into rings: Provide salty, briny bursts that contrast beautifully against the creamy dip.
Sweety Drop peppers: Tiny, tear-shaped peppers that add playful color and a mild bite.
Crumbled reduced-fat feta or tomato-basil-flavored feta (1-2 tablespoons): Adds a tangy, savory finish to the topping layer with a creamy texture.

How to Make Tree-Shaped Cannellini Bean Dip with Pesto and Veggie Toppings Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Cannellini Bean Base

Begin by draining and rinsing the cannellini beans thoroughly to remove any excess sodium and canned flavor. In a medium bowl, blend the beans with the reduced-fat cream cheese until the mixture is silky and smooth. A food processor works wonders here but you can also use a hand mixer or mash by hand – just aim for a uniform texture. Add the kosher salt to elevate the flavors.

Step 2: Form the Tree Shape

Transfer the creamy bean mixture onto a serving plate and carefully shape it into a triangular tree form with your hands or a spatula. This is your canvas, so don’t rush – smoothing the edges neatly will make the final presentation pop. Leave some space at the bottom to create the trunk area.

Step 3: Add the Pesto Layer

Spread a generous layer of fresh or refrigerated pesto over the top portion of the tree, letting that brilliant green color shine through. This layer represents the pine needles and infuses herbaceous flavors into every bite. Can’t get enough pesto? Feel free to swirl some into your base before shaping for an extra punch.

Step 4: Decorate with Veggie Toppings

This is the fun part! Use chopped artichoke hearts and roasted red peppers to mimic the texture and bursting colors of evergreen branches adorned with ornaments. Scatter sliced Kalamata olives as little “baubles,” arranging them evenly. Place the Sweety Drop peppers sporadically like miniature lights. Don’t forget the crumbled feta sprinkled on top for that snowy effect that ties the whole tree together.

Step 5: Complete the Tree with the Trunk and Star

Position your rectangular slice of brownish or purple-black pepper to form the tree trunk at the base. To top it off, carve a star from yellow bell pepper or simply place a star-shaped cracker at the very peak. This charming detail seals the festive theme and will bring a smile to everyone who sees your creation.

How to Serve Tree-Shaped Cannellini Bean Dip with Pesto and Veggie Toppings Recipe

The image shows a wooden board on a white marbled surface with several small white bowls and containers of colorful food items. Starting from the top left, there is a whole yellow bell pepper, next to it a white block of cheese on parchment paper. On the board, a small wooden bowl holds white crumbled cheese. In front, a small jar is filled with green pesto sauce. Nearby, a round white bowl contains red roasted peppers with black char marks. To the right, another round white bowl holds light yellow artichoke hearts. In the lower front, a small white scalloped bowl is filled with bright red small peppers, and near it are a couple of loose red peppers on the board. Finally, on the bottom right, a white bowl has beige kidney beans spilling slightly onto the board, with a small white heart-shaped bowl at the top holding dark olives. The background shows a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To complement your tree-shaped masterpiece, you might consider extra fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil leaves for a fragrant garnish. A light drizzle of olive oil can enhance the creaminess and sheen. For a touch of sweetness, pomegranate seeds sprinkled around add beautiful contrast and a juicy pop.

Side Dishes

This dip loves to be surrounded by crunchy companions! Crisp pita chips, whole-grain crackers, or an assortment of colorful veggie sticks such as carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers pair beautifully. These choices not only add variety but also provide satisfying textures that make each scoop exciting.

Creative Ways to Present

Serving this dip at a holiday party or family gathering becomes an event in itself when presented creatively. Try placing it on a rustic wooden board accompanied by the dippables arranged around like a forest floor. Alternatively, serve it inside a hollowed-out bread bowl shaped like a miniature Christmas tree to keep things festive and functional!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Tree-Shaped Cannellini Bean Dip with Pesto and Veggie Toppings Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the veggies and the base separated if possible to maintain crispness and freshness. This also makes reheating or re-serving easier without compromising the vibrant colors.

Freezing

Because of the fresh veggie toppings and cream cheese, freezing this dip is not ideal as it may affect texture upon thawing. However, you can freeze the bean base alone without the pesto or toppings, defrosting it gently in the fridge before use.

Reheating

This dip is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you want to warm the base, gently microwave or heat in a small saucepan but add your pesto and toppings fresh after reheating to preserve their bright flavors and textures.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Certainly! Substitute the reduced-fat cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative and choose a pesto without cheese or make your own vegan pesto. This will keep the dip creamy and flavorful while fully plant-based.

What can I use if I don’t have cannellini beans?

Great question! You can swap cannellini beans with other white beans like Great Northern or navy beans. They have a similar mild flavor and creamy texture that works well in this dip.

How far in advance can I prepare this dip?

You can prepare the base and pesto layer up to a day ahead, storing it covered in the fridge. Add the veggie toppings just before serving to keep them crisp and colorful.

Are there gluten-free options for serving?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free crackers or fresh vegetable sticks like celery or bell peppers to keep the dish gluten-free without losing crunch or taste.

Can I use homemade pesto?

Yes! Homemade pesto is a fantastic option and often tastier. Fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil make a vibrant pesto that will elevate your Tree-Shaped Cannellini Bean Dip with Pesto and Veggie Toppings Recipe even more.

Final Thoughts

There is something so joyful about creating and sharing a Tree-Shaped Cannellini Bean Dip with Pesto and Veggie Toppings Recipe. It combines festive visuals, fresh flavors, and wholesome ingredients all in one bowl, making it an irresistible choice for any occasion. I encourage you to gather your favorite veggies, whip up this creamy dip, and watch as your guests admire and savor every bite of your edible holiday artwork. Happy dipping!

Tree-Shaped Cannellini Bean Dip with Pesto and Veggie Toppings Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

How to Make Tree-Shaped Cannellini Bean Dip with Pesto and Veggie Toppings Recipe