ANCHOVY LEMON DIP W/GREEN BEANS

By BobD

Ingredients

• This dip has all the umami seductiveness of a bagna cauda. In August's heat, however, you'll be thrilled that it's a cool version and not too heavy—just thick enough to cling to green beans.
• 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons sour cream, divided
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 (2-ounce) can flat anchovy fillets in oil, rinsed and drained
• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1 to 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 1/2 pounds green or wax beans, trimmed

Details

Servings 6

Preparation

Step 1

Stir together 2 tablespoons sour cream with water, anchovies, and garlic in a small saucepan, then cook at a bare simmer, whisking frequently, 10 minutes. Force through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl.

Whisk in mayonnaise, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, 1/4 teaspoon salt, remaining cup sour cream, and lemon juice (to taste). Chill, covered, at least 1 hour and up to 2 days.

While dip chills, blanch beans in 3 quarts boiling water with 1 tablespoon salt 1 minute, then drain and immediately chill in an ice bath 5 minutes. Drain well and pat dry. Serve with dip.

Cooks' note: Beans can be blanched 1 day ahead and chilled, wrapped in dampened paper towels, in a large sealable plastic bag.

Makes 6 (hors d'oeuvre) servings.