White Bean Dip

If you have guests coming over last-minute, whip up this simple dip - it comes together in minutes.

Rinse and drain one (15-ounce) can of cannellini beans. Combine in a food processor with 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, 1 tablespoon fresh-squeezed lime juice, 1 and 1/2 teaspoons chopped canned jalapeno peppers (I bought Whole Foods' 365 brand, which does not include sugar in the ingredient list), 3/4 tsp. soy sauce (preferably a low-sodium variety), 1/2 tsp. olive oil, 1/8 tsp. chili powder, and one minced garlic clove. Puree until smooth.

Spoon into a bowl and sprinkle the top with 2 tablespoons chopped and seeded plum tomato and 2 tablespoons minced green onions. This is delicious with baked tortilla chips!

A 1/4 cup of dip is 100 calories. If you like, you can puree the ingredients together and store in the fridge until ready to serve; sprinkle with the tomato and the green onions just before serving.

Cost:
cilantro $1.69
lime $0.59
canned jalapeno pepper $0.99
cannellini beans $0.89
plum tomato $0.46
green onions $0.99