Cauliflower with Harissa and White Bean Dip

ByTanya

This harissa and white bean dip is a creamy, flavourful dip that perfectly balances smoky, spicy harissa with the smoothness of blended white beans. This dip is a delicious alternative from the classic vegan favourite ‘Hummus’ (which I absolutely adore, but is nice to have other options!).This dip is velvety, creamy, and satisfying, and is rich without being too heavy.

A table with a plate of creamy, orange-colored Harissa and white bean dip garnished with herbs, spices, and nuts. Surrounding it are bowls with seasoned chicken pieces, lemon wedges, and pine nuts. A plate with pita bread is partially visible.

It is perfect for serving with fresh veggies such as carrots or cucumbers, crackers, or pitta bread, making it an ideal snack, or side dish. I topped this tasty dip with roasted cauliflower and they went together beautifully! Packed with plant-based protein, this dish is as nutritious as it is tasty, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavours.

Ingredients

Top view of various ingredients on a pristine white surface, featuring cauliflower florets, white beans perfect for a Harissa and White Bean Dip, lemon wedges, coriander, pine nuts, black seeds, and spices in small bowls. Fresh dill is artfully scattered around the setup.
  • Cauliflower- Cauliflower has become a superstar ingredient in the plant-based world, thanks to its versatility and ability to take on bold flavours. In this recipe, we roast the cauliflower perfection and serve it on the harissa and white bean dip. The cauliflower is tossed with olive oil, salt, paprika and cumin before being roasted until golden and slightly charred.
Roasted cauliflower florets with a golden-brown char on a baking tray, seasoned with spices and a hint of harissa. The pieces vary in size, displaying a crispy texture and rich, appetizing color, perfect for pairing with a creamy white bean dip.
  • Cannellini beans- Cannellini beans used in this recipe, but these can also be substituted with butter beans. These beans are high in protein, and provide a creamy, smooth texture when blended.
  • Harissa paste- Harissa is a North African chili paste that adds bold, spicy, and smoky notes to any dish. Made from a blend of dried chilies, garlic, olive oil, and spices, harissa is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many dishes
  • Smoked paprika- Smoked paprika has a distinctive smoky, earthy flavour that pairs well with the harissa in this dip
  • Lemon juice- Lemon juice helps balance the spiciness of the harissa, enhancing the overall flavour profile and keeping the dip fresh and vibrant
A black plate holds a smooth spread of rich, orange harissa sauce. A spoon is partially visible, positioned as if smoothing the sauce across the surface. The background shows a glimpse of another dish, possibly a savory white bean dip.

To serve, you can drizzle some olive or chilli oil, and sprinkle of fresh herbs like fresh coriander and dill, pine nuts and white or black sesame seeds. I would recommend all of these if you can! This dip can be enjoyed alone, with raw veggies (such as carrot sticks), crackers or pitta bread.

A plate of creamy red pepper and white bean dip garnished with roasted cauliflower, pine nuts, black sesame seeds, fresh dill, and dollops of harissa-infused sauce rests elegantly on a light marble surface.

Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:

A black plate with creamy hummus topped with roasted cauliflower, pine nuts, black sesame seeds, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of spicy harissa. A silver spoon rests on the side of the dish.

Cauliflower with Harissa and White Bean Dip

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Ingredients

Harissa and White Bean Dip

  • 1 can cannellini beans, rinsed well and drained
  • 2 tablespoon Harissa paste
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 2 teaspoon Smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
  • 2-3 garlic cloves
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh lemon juice

Roasted Cauliflower

  • ½ head cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 1 tablespoon Olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 tablespoon Smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon Cumin

To serve

  • Optional toppings: Fresh coriander, Fresh dill, Pine nuts, Black sesame seeds, Chilli oil

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 200℃. On a baking sheet, add the cauliflower florets, olive oil, salt, paprika, and cumin. Toss well to evenly coat.
  • Transfer to the oven and roast for around 15 minutes. Toss and roast another 10 minutes, until brown and outside starting to become soft. Leave to cool
  • Place the drained white beans, harissa paste, salt, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic cloves and lemon juice in food processor. Blend until smooth.
  • Spread the dip in a shallow bowl. Add the roasted cauliflower.
  • Add optional toppings: Fresh  coriander, Fresh dill, Pine nuts, Black sesame seeds, Chilli oil

Video

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