If you’re looking for something creamy, colorful, and joyfully simple to share this holiday season, this Festive Bean Spread might just become your new favorite. It’s perfect for Easy Cute Christmas Appetizers and makes a lovely addition to any Christmas Eve Luncheon. With only a few pantry staples and a touch of holiday flair, this dip brings comfort and flavor to the table without a fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s quick to make with ingredients you already have.
Perfect for Apps For Christmas Eve or a casual family gathering.
Can be made ahead, saving you time on busy holiday nights.
Looks festive and tastes amazing with minimal effort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

White beans: The creamy base that gives this spread its smooth texture.
Olive oil: Adds richness and helps blend the flavors.
Lemon juice: Brightens up the beans with a gentle tang.
Garlic: For that cozy kick of flavor that makes everything taste better.
Rosemary and thyme: Holiday herbs that bring warmth and a beautiful aroma.
Red bell pepper: Adds color and sweetness to match the festive theme.
Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that tie everything together.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1

Rinse and drain your beans, then add them to a food processor with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. Blend until creamy and smooth.

Step 2

Taste and adjust seasonings with salt and pepper. Add a splash of extra olive oil if you’d like it silkier.

Step 3

Transfer to a shallow serving bowl. Top with finely chopped red bell peppers and a sprinkle of thyme for that festive red and green touch.

Step 4

Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. The flavors deepen beautifully as it sits.

Helpful Tips & Variations

For a creamy twist, stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or cream cheese.
Add roasted garlic for a deeper, mellow flavor.
Garnish with pomegranate seeds for a sparkle of sweetness and color.
Pair with crackers, crostini, or fresh veggies for Appetizers For Christmas Eve.

Serving & Storage

Serve your Festive Bean Spread with toasted bread rounds, pita chips, or alongside your favorite Christmas Eve Hors D’oeuvres. It pairs beautifully with a glass of sparkling cider or wine and makes a colorful addition to any Christmas Eve Appetizer Ideas board.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Before serving again, give it a quick stir and drizzle a bit of olive oil on top. It also reheats gently in the microwave if you prefer it warm.

Festive Bean Spread

This Festive Bean Spread is creamy, colorful, and easy to make with pantry staples. It’s a cozy, flavorful appetizer perfect for Christmas Eve or any holiday gathering.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 0

Chill Time 30

Total Time 40

Servings: 6 people

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: Holiday

Calories: 180

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

Spread Base

1 can white beans cannellini or great northern, rinsed and drained
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
1 clove garlic minced
1 tsp rosemary chopped
1 tsp thyme chopped
1/4 tsp salt or to taste
1/4 tsp black pepper or to taste

Garnish

2 tbsp red bell pepper finely chopped
1 tsp fresh thyme for garnish

Equipment

Food Processor

Method

Rinse and drain the white beans. Add them to a food processor with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Season with salt and pepper. Blend again to mix well. Add a little more olive oil if a silkier texture is desired.
Transfer the spread to a shallow serving dish. Top with chopped red bell peppers and fresh thyme for a festive presentation.
Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. Serve with toasted bread, pita chips, or fresh veggies.

Notes

Customize with roasted garlic for a richer flavor or add cream cheese for extra creaminess.
For a sweet and festive twist, garnish with pomegranate seeds.

FAQs

Can I make this Festive Bean Spread ahead of time?

Absolutely. It’s one of those Apps For Christmas Eve that actually gets better after a few hours. The flavors meld, and the texture stays creamy. Just keep it refrigerated until serving.

What kind of beans work best?

White beans like cannellini or great northern beans work best for this Xmas Dip. They have a naturally buttery flavor that blends smoothly, giving you a perfect base for any Christmas Eve Luncheon.

Can I serve this as part of a larger spread?

Yes. This pairs wonderfully with Easy Cute Christmas Appetizers like fruit skewers or savory bites. It’s a cozy addition to your Christmas Hor Dourves table, adding color and comfort.

Can I make it vegan or dairy-free?

It already is! Every ingredient in this Appetizer For Christmas recipe is plant-based. Just make sure your bread or crackers are dairy-free if serving to vegan guests.

What’s the best way to serve it for guests?

Use a shallow dish, drizzle with olive oil, and add festive toppings like rosemary sprigs or diced peppers. Place it next to your Christmas Hor Dourves platter for a cheerful and cohesive presentation.

Final Thoughts from Ama

This Festive Bean Spread is one of those recipes that reminds me why I love the holidays. It’s simple, colorful, and brings people together without stress. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas Eve Luncheon or setting out Easy Cute Christmas Appetizers before dinner, this little dish fits right in. As I like to say, simple food has a big heart, and this one proves it.

From my cozy kitchen in Carmel-by-the-Sea, I wish you a warm and delicious holiday season. Save this one for your next gathering—it just might become your new Christmas classic.