We’ve created some fresh, delicious bean dips that also have a nice bit of protein (at least 5 and up to 10 grams per serving) and use heart-healthy olive oil—a great improvement over any heavy or gloppy bean dips you may have encountered in the past. A few of the recipes below even have some veggies worked into the dips themselves for good measure.

• Warm 6-Layer Ranchero Dip

  Beans and cheese combine to give this hearty dip 9 grams of protein per serving. Chiles and veggies bring a dose of freshness. Best of all, the delicious flavor will keep everyone dipping.

• Red Lentil Hummus

  A bit of smoked paprika gives a red glow and smoky taste to delicate pink lentils. Plus, you get 10 grams of protein per serving as you scoop it onto fresh veggies or TLC® crackers.

• Black Bean Dip

  A double-chile kick and a hit of fresh cilantro make this black bean dip a keeper. Garnish with more fresh cilantro (and even more fresh minced chile, if you like things hot) to highlight the deep color of this tasty dip. The 5 grams of protein in each serving isn’t too shabby, either.

• Indian Chickpea dip

  It may look like hummus (and like most hummus dips it contains about 5 grams of protein per serving), but this unique chickpea dip uses freshly roasted spices commonly used in Indian cooking for a deep, rich flavor.

• White bean and caramelized fennel dip

  Caramelize fresh fennel, add some fennel seeds, and puree with white beans for an amazingly lush, creamy dip that has 6 grams of protein per serving. Serve it with crackers or make it a triple-fennel situation by serving it with fresh fennel for dipping.