Delicious Vegan Bean Spread Recipe for Healthy Snacks!
Welcome to the world of easy vegan bean spread recipes! As a vegan chef, I am always on the lookout for delicious and simple recipes that cater to plant-based lifestyles. This easy vegan bean spread recipe is packed with flavor and texture that you won’t believe it’s vegan.
Not only is this recipe quick and easy, but it’s also versatile, making it a perfect addition to any meal or snack. Enjoy a tasty dip with your favorite crackers or veggies, use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps, or even add it as a topping for your baked potatoes. The possibilities are endless!
This recipe is perfect for anyone who wants to eat healthily without compromising on taste. It’s loaded with protein, fiber, and other nutritious ingredients that will keep your body nourished and fueled throughout the day. Plus, since it’s made entirely from whole foods, you can feel good about what you’re eating and their impact on the environment.
So let’s get started with this easy vegan bean spread recipe – your taste buds are in for a treat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Picture this: you’re hosting a big game-day party with all your favorite people. The beverages are iced, the chips are crisping, and the snacks table is ready to go. But if you’re like most of us, you might find yourself wishing for something more substantial than just potato chips and dip.
Well, worry no longer! This vegan bean spread recipe is here to save the party. Loaded with flavor and a variety of complex textures, this creamy vegan bean spread is the perfect answer to your game-day snacking needs.
Why will you love it? For starters, it’s ridiculously easy to make – just five minutes in the food processor – which leaves you more time to focus on your guests or other party preparations. Plus, not only is it delicious, but it’s also packed with healthy plant-based ingredients like beans and fresh vegetables.
Speaking of flavor, let’s talk about what makes this recipe so incredibly tasty. We start with a mixture of black beans, pinto beans or cannellini beans that have been rinsed and drained. Then we mix them up with some aromatic ingredients like garlic cloves and yellow onions sautéed in olive oil until they’re fragrant and golden brown.
Next up are some classic Mexican-inspired spices: cumin, chili powder, and coriander. If you like things spicy, don’t be afraid to add a dash of cayenne pepper!
For brightness and acidity, we add fresh-squeezed lemon juice, white vinegar or lime juice – the tartness helps balance out the flavors of the dish perfectly. And finally, we finish it off with some fresh herbs like chopped cilantro leaf or parsley for an extra pop of color and taste.
Whether you’re serving this vegan bean spread as a snack with vegetable sticks or pairing it with some warm crackers as part of a charcuterie plate, there’s no denying that this dish is a crowd-pleaser. So go ahead – give it a try!
Ingredient List
Take a look at the ingredient list for this easy vegan bean spread recipe, and you’ll see that most of the ingredients can already be found in your pantry. The beauty of this recipe is that it allows for substitutions and modifications based on personal preference or dietary restrictions. Here are the ingredients you will need:
Beans
- 1 15 oz can of black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 15 oz can of pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 15.5 oz can of cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
Vegetables
- ½ yellow onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Flavor Enhancers
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp white vinegar
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and fresh ground pepper to taste
Additional Garnishing (Optional)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves, chopped
This recipe uses a combination of different beans to create a rich and creamy texture with layers of flavors. Feel free to substitute any type of beans you have on hand. The vegetables add depth to the flavor profile, and the tomato paste provides a beautiful deep color to the spread. The inclusion of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro adds an aromatic touch to the dish.
The Recipe How-To
Now that we’ve covered what makes this vegan bean spread so great, let’s dive into how to make it. This recipe is so simple and customizable; follow these instructions exactly or use them as a base to make your own creamy vegan bean dip creations.
Ingredients:
- 1 can white beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of ½ a lemon
- ¼ cup of fresh parsley and/or cilantro leaf, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for some heat
Directions:
- In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, cook the diced onions in olive oil until they’re soft and slightly browned.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add both cans of vegan beans to the pan and stir until combined with the onion mixture. Add a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Reduce heat to low and let simmer for about five minutes.
- Remove from heat and allow to cool down for a few minutes.
- Transfer the mixture into your food processor along with the lemon juice and herbs.
- Process until you reach your desired consistency (you might have to scrape down the sides of the food processor bowl a couple of times).
- Taste the mixture, add additional salt and pepper to taste (and cayenne/chili powder if you want some spice).
- Serve immediately or chill in your fridge for up to 5 days.
There you have it–your very own vegan bean spread that serves as a perfect appetizer for parties, part of 7 layer dip, or even as a high-protein lunch when paired with some whole-grain crackers or veggies!
Substitutions and Variations
Now, let’s talk about some ways to mix things up with this recipe. One of the best things about making your own vegan bean spread is that there are countless ways to change it up and make it your own.
Firstly, you can experiment with different types of beans. Although this recipe calls for black beans or white beans, you could try using other varieties like pinto beans, cannellini beans, or even lima beans. Each type of bean will bring its own unique texture and flavor profile to the table.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding in some different vegetables or spices to the mix. A dash of chili powder or cumin can give your bean spread a nice kick. Alternatively, fresh cilantro or parsley can add a touch of brightness to the flavor.
For those who prefer a creamier vegan bean dip, try adding in some vegan sour cream or cream cheese. This adds an extra layer of richness and gives the dip a smoother consistency.
If you want to make this dip oil-free, simply omit the olive oil from the recipe. You can still achieve a delicious and creamy vegan bean dip without using any oil.
Finally, if you’re looking for a fun twist on this classic dip, try making a seven-layer dip by layering your bean spread with salsa, diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, jalapenos, shredded lettuce, and vegan sour cream.
No matter which variation you choose, your homemade vegan bean spread is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Serving and Pairing
When it comes to serving and pairing this vegan bean spread recipe, the possibilities are endless. This dip can be paired with various types of dipping options to satisfy any craving or dietary restriction.
For those who enjoy a classic combination, serve the bean spread with tortilla chips or your favorite vegetables like cucumber, carrot, or celery sticks. The smooth and creamy consistency of the dip makes it perfect for spreading on crackers as well.
If you’re looking for a more substantial meal or snack, this bean spread can be used as a filling for wraps and sandwiches. It goes perfectly in a wrap with some lettuce, avocado, and grilled vegetables like zucchini and eggplant. Or you could spread it on some bread slices and layer with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions for a flavorful sandwich.
This recipe also works wonderfully as a topping option for baked potatoes or sweet potatoes. Top your potatoes with this delicious mix and then sprinkle some vegan cheese or chopped cilantro leaves on top to add an extra kick to the taste.
For those who are feeling creative, try using this vegan bean spread as a base for making seven-layer dip by layering toppings such as guacamole, salsa, vegan sour cream, olives, and diced tomatoes on top of it. You can also use it to make a vegan pâté by adding chopped herbs like parsley, thyme or rosemary to your liking.
Overall, this easy vegan bean spread recipe is versatile enough to pair with any dish and would make an excellent addition to your party platters or snack menu at home!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
The great thing about this easy vegan bean spread recipe is that you can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to five days. If you plan to use it as a meal prep, make sure to divide it into smaller containers so you can easily pack them for work or school.
When reheating, I recommend using a microwave-safe container and heating it in 15-second intervals or until it’s heated through. You may also reheat the bean spread over low heat on the stovetop, making sure to stir constantly to avoid burning.
To extend the shelf life of your vegan bean dip, store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two months. Allow enough space at the top of the container to prevent cracking because liquid expands when frozen.
When you are ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a few hours before reheating.
This dish is also fit for party prepping! Simply prepare a large batch and keep the dipping sauce refrigerated. Assembly can be done just before serving, or better yet, as a fun party activity for all your guests.
Overall, this creamy vegan bean dip recipe is perfect for meal prep Sundays, last-minute weekend parties or game day. It’s super versatile, easy to make and easy to store; making it one of my go-to plant-based appetizers that I’m sure anyone will love.
Tips for Perfect Results
Don’t let the simplicity of this recipe fool you, because there are a few key tips that can make all the difference in the final outcome of your vegan bean spread. Here are some tips to ensure that your dip is irresistibly creamy and bursting with flavor:
1. Use high-quality ingredients: Since there are only a handful of ingredients in this recipe, it’s important to use the best ones you can find. Opt for organic beans, fresh herbs, and high-quality olive oil to ensure optimal flavor.
2. Blend it for longer than you think: To achieve a super smooth consistency, blend your bean spread for longer than you think is necessary. This will help break down the beans and create a truly creamy texture.
3. Add liquids slowly: In order to avoid an overly watery or thin bean spread, add any liquid ingredients (such as lemon juice or salsa) slowly, while blending on low speed. This will also help prevent any spills or splatters in your food processor.
4. Adjust seasoning to taste: Depending on personal preference, you may need to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, cumin or other seasonings used in this recipe. Be sure to taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
5. Chill before serving: For maximum flavor and texture, chill your finished bean dip in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. This will allow all of the flavors to meld together and create a more cohesive dish.
By following these simple tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating the perfect vegan bean spread every time.
Bottom Line
This vegan bean spread recipe is a must-try for any food enthusiast, regardless of their vegan or non-vegan diet. It’s easy to make, packed with nutrients and flavors that satisfy even the most demanding taste buds. Plus, this recipe has an impressive versatility, allowing you to customize it to your liking with various substitutions and variations.
Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a snack or meal for you and your loved ones, this vegan dip recipe is perfect for any occasion. And with the array of healthy ingredients, such as beans, veggies, herbs, and spices that go into it, we can guarantee that your body will love it just as much as your taste buds do.
So go ahead and give this recipe a try. Not only will you be doing your health a favor by indulging in a delicious plant-based treat, but also you’ll be supporting sustainable and cruelty-free food choices. Happy cooking!
Easy Vegan Bean Spread Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 medium white onions or 1/2 medium yellow onion, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 -2 garlic clove, minced
- 1 medium celery (with leaves, minced)
- 1/4 cup diced green bell pepper (or 1/2 jalapeno, diced for spicier version)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (I use ketchup or even BBQ sauce)
- 1/2 teaspoon italian seasoning (salt-free) or 1/2 teaspoon taco seasoning (salt-free)
- 1 1/2 cups beans, of your choice cooked and mashed
- 2 teaspoons white vinegar, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- fresh ground pepper
Other Suggested Ingredients
- fresh parsley
- shoyu
- fresh lemon juice
- cumin
- cilantro leaf
- cayenne
Instructions
- Begin by sauteing on medium heat the onion and garlic in the olive oil until soft.
- Next add the celery and pepper if using and cook another 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add the garlic, tomato paste, herbs of your choice. Simmer about 10 minutes. (*Alternately, you can add the beans into the pan with the celery, onion, tomato paste, etc. and simmer. Do not allow the beans to dry out, adding a bit of water or stock if necessary.).
- Place the cooked, warmed beans into a serving bowl.
- Add the sauce along with the vinegar, salt and pepper into the mashed beans and mix well. Bean mixture should be spreadable but not watery.
- Adjust seasoning.
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Jolo is a talented chef and food blogger with a passion for vegan and Caribbean flavors. From savory vegetarian dishes to tropical smoothies, Jolo’s Kitchen has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for meat-free meals or creative Caribbean recipes, Jolo’s Kitchen is the perfect place for you.