Ingredients
For the Whipped Feta Dip
- 8 ounces (225g) block feta cheese, crumbled
- 4 ounces (115g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (120g) plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Mediterranean Toppings
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
- ½ cup cucumber, diced
- ¼ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- 2 tablespoons finely diced red onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint (optional)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- Freshly cracked black pepper
For Serving
- Warm pita bread
- Pita chips
- Toasted baguette slices
- Fresh vegetables (carrots, cucumbers, celery, bell peppers)
- Crackers
- Grilled chicken or lamb
- Falafel
Equipment
- Food processor or high-speed blender
- Mixing bowl
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Serving bowl
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Crumble the feta cheese into small pieces.
Allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes for easier blending.
Mince the garlic and zest the lemon.
Step 2: Make the Whipped Feta
In a food processor, combine:
- Feta cheese
- Cream cheese
- Greek yogurt
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Lemon zest
- Garlic
- Dried oregano
- Black pepper
- Crushed red pepper flakes (if using)
Blend for 2–3 minutes, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed, until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and fluffy.
If the dip is too thick, add 1–2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt or olive oil until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 3: Prepare the Toppings
In a small bowl, combine:
- Cherry tomatoes
- Cucumber
- Kalamata olives
- Red onion
- Parsley
- Dill
- Mint (if using)
Drizzle with olive oil and toss gently.
Step 4: Assemble the Dip
Transfer the whipped feta to a serving bowl.
Using the back of a spoon, create decorative swirls on the surface.
Spoon the Mediterranean topping mixture evenly over the dip.
Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil.
Finish with freshly cracked black pepper and a sprinkle of dried oregano.
Step 5: Chill (Optional)
For the best flavor, cover and refrigerate the dip for 30 minutes before serving.
This allows the garlic, herbs, and lemon to blend beautifully.
Step 6: Serve
Serve chilled or at cool room temperature with:
- Warm pita bread
- Pita chips
- Fresh vegetables
- Crackers
- Crostini
- Grilled meats
- Falafel
- Roasted vegetables
Chef’s Tips
- Use block feta packed in brine for the creamiest texture and most authentic flavor.
- Blend thoroughly for a silky-smooth consistency.
- Fresh lemon juice brightens the dip and balances the saltiness of the feta.
- Let the dip sit for 30 minutes before serving to deepen the flavors.
- Garnish with plenty of fresh herbs for a vibrant finish.
Delicious Variations
Roasted Red Pepper Feta Dip
Blend in ½ cup roasted red peppers for a smoky, sweet flavor.
Spicy Whipped Feta
Add a roasted jalapeño, Calabrian chili paste, or extra red pepper flakes.
Sun-Dried Tomato Feta Dip
Blend in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and finish with basil.
Herb Lovers’ Feta Dip
Add extra dill, parsley, chives, and mint for a fresh herb-packed version.
Honey Whipped Feta
Drizzle honey over the finished dip and top with toasted walnuts or pistachios for a sweet-and-savory appetizer.
Storage
Store the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Stir well before serving if any liquid separates.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Prepare the dip up to 2 days in advance.
Add the fresh vegetable toppings just before serving to keep them crisp and vibrant.
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 190
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
