White Bean and Bacon Dip

Time for August's Improv Cooking Challenge!

The theme for this month was beans and bacon. This is one of my very favorite savory food combos. Ron and I adore bacon (seriously who does have a bacon fetish these days) and I love any type of bean. One of my favorite meals growing up was Campbell's beans and bacon soup.  These days I stay away from condensed soups, but still love the flavors because it brings a bit of childhood nostalgia.  We also traditionally prepare bean and ham soup after the holidays. 

I debated making a homemade version of bean and bacon soup for the challenge, but I decided to go in a different direction and make a dip.  I wanted to focus on creamy white beans, fresh herbs and bacon- perfect for a pita or a crisp veggie. I added a bit of chicken stock and greek yogurt to add a bit more flavor and creaminess to the dip. I also opted to add a bit of black pepper and finish it with a bit of crumbled bacon.  The dip reminds me of all the tastes I love in bean and bacon soup wrapped up in a velvety spreadable dip. 

I served this with pita and veggies, but it is very versatile and would be great on crackers and toast as well. Kellen loved with dip and enjoyed it as a dinner appetizer.  I am always happy when I find a new way for him to enjoy food. Kellen has taken a liking to beans and loves fresh veggies. He is also (like most kids) into dipping. Normally, I keep hummus around for him, but this was a fun variation for him to try. 

If you want to join the fun of the Improv Cooking Challenge visit Kristen of Frugal Antics of a Harried Homemaker for details! 

Stay tuned for next month's recipe using Milk and Honey!


Ingredients

1 15 oz can great northern beans, rinsed and drained
1 tsp olive oil
2 Tbl chicken stock
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp celery salt
1 Tbl greek yogurt
1 Tbl chopped fresh thyme
1 Tbl chopped fresh parsley
5 strips of bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled


Instructions

Place beans, stock, pepper, celery salt, yogurt, herbs and equivalent of 4 bacon strips (reserve 1 strip for garnish) into a food processor.  

Pulse till smooth and well mixed. Remove from processor and transfer to a serving dish. Top with remaining bacon.  Serve with pitas and fresh veggies. 


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