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This vibrant cucumber and avocado salad bean dip brings together creamy avocado, crunchy cucumber, and satisfying white beans for a satisfying appetizer or snack. I lean on this recipe for quick lunches or when last-minute guests pop by because it never fails to impress and takes just minutes from start to finish. Whether I am craving something fresh with tortilla chips or want a hearty spread for wraps, this dip always hits the spot.
I remember first making this for a backyard picnic and it was one of the first dishes to disappear My friends kept begging for the recipe and now it is my go to crowd pleaser for all kinds of gatherings
Ingredients
- Ripe avocado: for a creamy texture and buttery taste Choose fruit that yields slightly to palm pressure without being mushy
- Cucumber: for a refreshing crunch Select firm cucumbers and peel if the skin is tough or bitter
- Red onion: for zesty bite and color Use freshly cut for the most vibrant flavor
- Fresh cilantro: for bright herbal notes Pick leaves that look perky and vibrant green
- Jalapeno: for gentle heat This is optional but really makes the flavor pop Use gloves when mincing to avoid irritation and remove seeds for milder flavor
- Lime juice: for zingy acidity Freshly squeezed is best for flavor and to help keep avocado green
- White beans: like cannellini or navy for substance and earthiness Go for BPA free cans and rinse well to remove excess salt
- Extra virgin olive oil: for mellow richness Grab your favorite decent quality oil for the best taste
- Ground cumin: to add subtle warmth and depth Choose ground cumin that is fragrant and fresh
- Sea salt: to enhance all the other flavors Pick a fine grain so it dissolves easily in the mix
- Black pepper: for a hint of spice Freshly cracked is best for rich aroma
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Produce:
- Dice avocado cucumber red onion cilantro and jalapeno Fine chopping keeps the dip scoopable and even Be gentle with the avocado so it holds its shape
- Mash the Beans:
- Put white beans in a bowl and mash gently with a fork or potato masher Leave a few chunks for texture You want a hint of creaminess but not a paste
- Combine Everything:
- Add mashed beans to the mixed veggies in a larger bowl so you have space to fold everything together
- Dress and Season:
- Drizzle everything with olive oil and lime juice Sprinkle over the cumin sea salt and black pepper Toss gently with a spatula to keep avocado pieces intact
- Taste and Adjust:
- Try a spoonful and adjust salt or seasoning as needed More lime brightens up the flavor if desired
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Scoop into a big bowl and serve straight away with tortilla chips pita or veggie sticks for dipping
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Creamy avocado is my absolute favorite in this dip because of how it brings all the flavors together I once made this at a family brunch and my little niece was so fascinated by how green her snack was she kept coming back for more
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day If you want to make it ahead for a party add the avocado at the last minute to prevent browning and keep it looking freshly made Pressing a piece of plastic wrap directly on the dip’s surface can also help slow browning
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap cilantro for parsley if you are not a fan or use scallions for a more mild onion flavor Kidney beans or chickpeas also work if you do not have white beans For the spice shy simply leave out the jalapeno or add just a pinch of cayenne
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Serving Suggestions
Serve this dip as a centerpiece with a platter of crisp bell pepper strips carrots and pita chips Layer into grain bowls for lunch or spread on wraps for a tasty sandwich filling My kids love a dollop as a taco topping on taco night
Cultural Context
Blending beans with fresh vegetables is a timeless approach found in many world cuisines From Mediterranean bean salads to Mexican salsas this recipe has the heart of traditional flavors but with a fresh fusion twist suitable for all kinds of gatherings
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use different beans in this dip?
Yes, cannellini or navy beans work well, but chickpeas or great northern beans are good alternatives.
- → How can I keep the avocado from browning?
Add the avocado just before serving and toss with lime juice to help prevent oxidation and browning.
- → What are the best ways to serve this dip?
Serve with tortilla chips, pita wedges, or fresh vegetable sticks for dipping. It also works well as a wrap filling or topping.
- → Is this dish suitable for special diets?
Absolutely—it is vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free, so it suits a variety of dietary needs.
- → Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Prepare most ingredients in advance but add the avocado just before serving for the best texture and color.