Greek White Bean Dip (Creamy Garlicky and Better Than Hummus)

Do you like dips? This one is a winner.

We had lunch the other day at a local Greek restaurant, and I fell in love with the creamy dip that the server placed on the table that was  referred to as hummus.

I'm not a big fan of hummus so I was going to skip it, but I was hungry, so while I was browsing the menu, I took a taste.

I was surprised. This dip tasted very. different than hummus—lighter, creamier, and somehow even more flavorful than traditional hummus. It had a bold garlic flavor and a smooth texture. 

A Different Hummus

Turns out, their “hummus” wasn’t regular hummus and was not made with chickpeas at all.

They made it using white beans. It was creamy, garlicky, lemony, and absolutely delicious. I immediately knew I wanted to recreate this dip at home.

The waitress gave me a basic idea of what was in it, but once I got home, I went online to scout out a few more exact recipes for Greek White Bean Dip (because yes, apparently this is a thing… and I’m so glad I discovered it!).

And the best part? You don't need to go to a Greek restaurant because it’s incredibly easy to make at home.

Ingredients for Greek White Bean Dip

• white beans

• lots of fresh garlic

• lemon juice

• cracked pepper

• salt

• water (to thin it out)

• olive oil (optional)

That’s it! It's a healthy dip to serve because it's high in fiber, protein, and antioxidants which is a winner in my book. I make it low in fat, but you don't have to.

My Oil-Free Option (Or the Restaurant-Style Version)

Personally, I prefer not to add oil when I make dips at home. The restaurant version was definitely thinned with olive oil, and let me tell you—it was outstanding.

But let’s be honest… calories add up quickly and olive oil adds  calories that I prefer not to consume.

 I tried thinning my version with water instead, and I actually still liked it. It stayed creamy, smooth, and still had that bold flavor.

                                     But will you like it that way? 

If you are good with the calories, by all means add the olive oil. 

Do you like my muffin tin server? 

I thought up this idea during Covid. Everyone got their own muffin tin not to spread germs. I thought it was so cute and useful that I still make my husband his own little snack tray when he is watching TV. Works for kids too.

I love making individual appetizer trays using muffin tins - no double dipping here!!

Perfect for Parties 

This dip is perfect served with a big platter of crunchy veggies (crudité), pita, or even whole grain GF crackers. It’s creamy enough to satisfy everyone.

This is one dip you’ll want to keep in your regular entertaining rotation because it's so easy to make and a crowd pleaser.

Ingredients:

2 cups of cooked white beans, drained (canned beans work)

3 large cloves of fresh garlic, pressed

1/4 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice

Cracked pepper and Salt

Optional: 3 tablespoons of olive oil 

Directions: 

Whiz everything together in the food processor.

What is your favorite dip? 

Dolce & Gabbana in Miami - Spectacular Exhibit

Hold on to your seat—because I’m buzzing with excitement. I just experienced the Dolce & Gabbana: From Heart to Hands exhibit in Downtown Miami, and it was nothing short of spectacular. 

This wasn’t simply a fashion display. Yes, there were breathtaking garments, shoes, and handbags of wearable art—but each of the many rooms on multiple floors unfolded like a fully immersive world of its own to match the artistic creations. 

Every detail was layered in opulence: dramatic interiors, sweeping Italian opera and classical music, the unmistakable scent of Dolce & Gabbana fragrance drifting through the air,(although it started to bother me after a while) and artwork that far exceeded anything I imagined. Unfortunately, the rooms were crowded and my photos captured only individual items, not the entire ambiance which is hard to describe.

From the moment I stepped into the first room, I was completely mesmerized. “Gorgeous” hardly does it justice. The pieces weren’t just presented—they were integrated into their surroundings, as if each outfit belonged to the room itself. 

The combination of fashion, art, music, fragrance, and even the furnishings created a sense of grandeur that felt almost royal. The only comparison that comes close is visiting a palace—like the Royal Palace of Madrid, which we explored last April—where every detail is designed to awe.

The exhibit, From Heart to Hands, is currently on view at the Institute of Contemporary Art in Miami through June 14. Miami is the first stop in the United States, which followed the shows in Milan, Paris, and Rome. Where will it go to next?—that is to be announced. No one knows as of now.

If you are near Miami- it's a must to go see. 

If it travels to a city near you, don’t hesitate. This is more than an exhibit—it’s a full sensory experience, and one I won’t soon forget.

My photos could not even begin to capture the glory of it all!! 

What do you think of these creative pieces of work?

My notes: 

I asked one of the workers (who were trained to answer questions) how much these type of items go for. She generalized and said hundreds of thousands to millions. 

Should Holiday Food Be Healthy? Rate Your Meal

A Fresh Take on Easter and Passover Meals

I'm already thinking about the upcoming holidays (Easter and Passover). I'm thinking about the indulgences and wondering why holiday food can't just be healthy food? Should it? 

 

Manatee Sightings

I am extremely excited to share with you some manatee photos seen from our friend's condo balcony on the 10th floor over the intracoastal.  The photos were taken with a cell phone. It appears to be an adult with a baby. 

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