Smoky, creamy bean dip with cumin and lime
Quick Black Bean Dip
Prep Time
5 min
Cook Time
5 min
Total Time
10 min
Servings
6
About 2 cups
Difficulty
Easy
Cost
Budget
$
Quick Black Bean Dip
Smoky, creamy bean dip with cumin and lime
★4.4(24)
A creamy, smoky black bean dip blended with cumin, garlic, and lime juice. Ready in just 10 minutes for a protein-packed party dip.
5m
Prep Time
5m
Cook Time
10m
Total Time
6
Servings
Easy
Difficulty
Budget $
Cost
Sarah Chen
(Updated )
This black bean dip is a healthier alternative to queso that does not sacrifice flavor. Smoky cumin and bright lime juice transform canned beans into a dip that tastes like it came from a restaurant.
Serve with chips, veggies, or use as a spread in wraps and burritos.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- 2
Add black beans and 1/4 cup water. Cook 3-4 minutes, mashing some beans with the back of a spoon.
- 3
Transfer half the beans to a food processor or blender. Pulse until smooth.
- 4
Return pureed beans to the skillet and stir together for a chunky-smooth texture.
- 5
Stir in lime juice, salt, and pepper. Top with cilantro and serve warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
Ways to Serve This Dish
Serve with warm corn tortillas and fresh lime wedges
Top with crumbled queso fresco and sliced avocado
Pair with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans
Arrange on a platter for easy sharing at your next gathering
Substitutions
Black beansPinto beans
Creamier and milder flavor
Smoked paprikaChipotle powder
Deeper smoky heat
Tips & Storage
Pro Tips
Add a diced chipotle pepper in adobo for a smoky, spicy kick.
Top with queso fresco, diced onion, or pickled jalapenos.
This dip thickens as it cools — thin with a splash of water or lime juice.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Label with the date and recipe name.
Reheating
Reheat in a saucepan with a splash of water over medium heat, stirring often.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving (0mg) · 6 servings
Calories130
LowModerateHigh
A light, low-calorie option · based on a 2,000 cal daily diet
Protein7g
Carbohydrates3g
Fat20g
Fiber290mg
Sugar6g
Sodium1g
Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use pinto beans instead?
- Yes, pinto beans make a great swap and give a slightly creamier texture.
- Is this good cold?
- It works well at any temperature — cold, warm, or room temp.
About Sarah Chen
Sarah Chen is a professional recipe developer and food editor with over a decade of experience in test kitchens and food media. She trained at the Culinary Institute of America before spending six years developing and testing recipes for national food publications, where she honed her ability to translate restaurant techniques into approachable home cooking. At RecipePool, Sarah leads recipe development, ensuring every dish is tested at least three times for clarity, accuracy, and genuine deliciousness. When she is not in the kitchen, she is browsing farmers markets and collecting vintage cookbooks.
View all recipes →