Herbed Green Pea and Butter Bean Dip
Herbed Green Pea and Butter Bean Dip is a creamy, vibrant twist on traditional hummus made with sweet green peas, silky butter beans, tahini, fresh dill, garlic, and bright lemon zest. The peas bring a naturally sweet flavor and beautiful green color, while the butter beans create an exceptionally smooth, velvety texture. Fresh garlic adds a savory bite that balances the bright herbs and citrus beautifully.
This fresh spring-inspired dip is not only flavorful but also nourishing. Peas are rich in fiber, plant-based protein, vitamins, and antioxidants, making them a simple way to add more nutrient-dense foods to everyday meals. If you’ve read my blog on peas and their health benefits, this recipe is a delicious way to put those ideas into practice.
Serve it with crunchy vegetables, warm pita, crackers, or spread it onto sandwiches and wraps for an easy lunch. It also pairs beautifully with grain bowls, roasted vegetables, or charcuterie-style snack boards.
Herbed Green Pea and Butter Bean Dip
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked butter beans (or canned, drained and rinsed)
- 1 ½ cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- ½ - 1 small clove garlic
- 2 tbsp tahini
- 4 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp olive oil, plus more for serving
- 1–2 tbsp cold water, as needed
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh dill
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley or mint (optional)
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- If using frozen peas, either thaw overnight in the refrigerator or thaw in cold water. Drain before using.
- If using fresh peas, blanch in boiling water for 1-3 minutes. They're done when they float to the surface and are tender. Drain and chill in cold water to retain the bright green color. Drain before using.
- Add the butter beans, peas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs to a food processor.
- Blend until mostly smooth. Add cold water a tablespoon at a time until the dip becomes creamy and spreadable.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. More lemon brightens it, while extra olive oil makes it richer.
- Spoon into a bowl and finish with whole peas, olive oil, herbs, cracked pepper, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika.
Notes
- It also makes an excellent spread for wraps or sandwiches with greens, roasted vegetables, or eggs.