Writer and photographer Monica Longenbaker

 
[dropcap]S[/dropcap]ummer entertaining couldn’t be simpler than with this no-fuss Mediterranean White Bean Dip. The gorgeous array of tangy garnishes adds a boost of color and flavor, turning the humble white bean into a stunning appetizer. Smear onto grilled crostini or serve alongside crunchy Homemade Pita Chips for a light, refreshing snack.

Mediterranean
White Bean Dip

Yield: Serves 4-6
1 15-ounce can white beans (great northern or cannellini), drained and rinsed
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
Optional: extra ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
salt and pepper to taste

Garnish:
2 tablespoons Kalamata olives, quartered
2 tablespoons roasted bell peppers, diced
½ tablespoon capers,
drained and rinsed
1 tablespoon parsley,
finely chopped
1 tablespoon pine nuts, toasted
extra virgin olive oil for drizzling

Homemade Pita Chips
4 pieces pita bread,
cut into strips
2 tablespoons extra virgin
olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
salt and pepper to taste

Bean Dip Directions:
In the bowl of a food processor, combine the white beans, lemon juice, garlic and olive oil. Puree until smooth. Optional: If consistency is too thick, add more olive oil until desired consistency is reached. Season to taste with salt and pepper and transfer the dip to a serving bowl.

In a separate bowl, combine the Kalamata olives, roasted bell peppers, capers, parsley and pine nuts. Sprinkle generously over the white bean dip and drizzle the top with extra virgin olive oil. Serve with homemade pita chips (recipe below).

Pita Chip Directions:
Preheat the oven to 400 F. Place the pita strips into a mixing bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over the pita strips and sprinkle with dried oregano, salt and pepper. Toss to coat.

Spread the pita chips into a single layer onto two sheet pans and place them into the preheated oven for 5-8 minutes, or until golden brown.

Remove the pita chips from the oven and allow to cool. Note: The pita chips will become crispier as they cool.