Description
Whipped Feta with Honey is a creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy dip that combines smooth whipped feta and cream cheese with warm garlic chili honey. It’s perfect as an elegant appetizer served with crackers, pita, or naan chips, garnished with chopped pistachios and fresh herbs for added texture and freshness.
Ingredients
For the Whipped Feta Dip
- Feta block – 8 oz (200 g)
- Cream cheese (room temperature) – 4 oz (100 g)
- Lemon juice – 3 tsp
- Olive oil – 3 tsp (divided)
- Garlic cloves (minced) – 3 to 4
- Red chili flakes – 1/2 tsp
- Honey – 1/4 cup
For Garnishing
- Chopped pistachios
- Fresh herbs (parsley, chives, or mint)
Instructions
- Prepare Spicy Garlic Honey: Heat 1 tsp olive oil in a small pan over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté gently for 30-40 seconds without browning. Add red chili flakes and continue sautéing for another 30 seconds. Turn off the flame and stir in honey, mixing well to warm it without boiling. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Whip the Feta Mixture: In a food processor, combine feta block, cream cheese, and lemon juice. Begin whipping, gradually adding the remaining 2 tsp olive oil as you blend. Continue whipping until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
- Assemble the Dip: Transfer the whipped feta mixture into a serving bowl. Using the back of a spoon, create swirls on the surface of the dip. Slowly drizzle the warm garlic chili honey into the crevices made by the swirls.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped pistachios and fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or mint over the top. Serve immediately with crackers, pita, or naan chips for dipping and enjoy.
Notes
- Ensure the garlic is sautéed over medium-low heat to avoid burning, which can make it bitter.
- Do not boil the honey; warming gently preserves its sweetness and texture.
- Use room temperature cream cheese for easier whipping and a smoother texture.
- The dip can be prepared ahead and refrigerated; allow it to come to room temperature before serving for best flavor and texture.
- Variations: You may substitute pistachios with walnuts or almonds for garnish or add smoked paprika for extra flavor in the dip.