Creamy whipped feta dip with a subtle spice kick, ideal as a spread or dip with crackers, vegetables, or flatbread.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dip is irresistibly creamy and tangy, with a gentle heat that enhances without overpowering. It’s elegant yet simple, perfect for parties, snacks, or spreading on sandwiches.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Feta cheese (block or crumbled)
- Cream cheese or Greek yogurt
- Olive oil
- Garlic or garlic powder
- Red pepper flakes or harissa paste
- Lemon juice
- Optional garnish: olive oil drizzle, herbs, chili flakes
Directions
- Combine feta, cream cheese (or yogurt), olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes in a food processor.
- Blend until smooth and fluffy, scraping down sides.
- Taste and adjust seasoning or spice level.
- Transfer to a serving bowl, drizzle olive oil on top, garnish with herbs or extra chili flakes.
Servings and timing
Serves about 6–8 as an appetizer. Prep time: 5–10 minutes. Total time: under 10 minutes.
Variations
- Stir in roasted red peppers or sun‑dried tomatoes.
- Use smoked paprika or chipotle powder instead of flakes for smoky depth.
- Add a swirl of honey for sweet‑savory contrast.
- Incorporate herbs such as dill, mint, or parsley.
Storage/reheating
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor and texture. No reheating needed.
FAQs
Can I make this without cream cheese?
Yes—Greek yogurt alone works, though texture may be looser and tangier.
How spicy is it?
You control the heat—start with a small pinch of red pepper flakes or harissa and adjust to taste.
Is this gluten‑free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten‑free.
Can I prepare ahead of time?
Yes—make it up to 24 hours ahead. Cover tightly and refrigerate.
How do I serve it best?
Serve with crackers, crudités, pita chips, flatbread, or spread on toast.
Can I freeze this dip?
Freezing isn’t recommended—texture may degrade. Consume within a few days.
What can I substitute for feta?
Use goat cheese or a mix of feta and cream cheese for milder tang.
How do I make it vegan?
Use vegan cream cheese and try a vegan feta substitute or marinated tofu.
Can I add herbs?
Yes—chopped parsley, dill, chives, or mint work beautifully as garnish or mixed in.
How do I thin it for a drizzle or dressing?
Stir in a small amount of olive oil or water until you reach desired consistency.
Conclusion
This whipped feta dip with a hint of spice is creamy, tangy, and easy to make. With optional variations and simple prep, it’s a versatile addition to any appetizer table.
PrintWhipped Feta Dip with a Touch of Spice
A creamy and tangy whipped feta dip with a hint of spice, perfect for serving with pita, crackers, or fresh vegetables. This Mediterranean-inspired appetizer is quick to make and packed with bold flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Total Time: 10 mins
- Yield: 1.5 cups 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp lemon zest
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: chopped parsley, drizzle of honey, additional red pepper flakes
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine feta cheese, Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic, red pepper flakes, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
- Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Taste and season with salt and black pepper as desired.
- Transfer dip to a serving bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with optional toppings like parsley, honey, or extra red pepper flakes.
- Serve with warm pita, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
Notes
- Use high-quality feta cheese for best flavor.
- For a milder dip, reduce or omit red pepper flakes.
- Can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Also delicious as a spread on sandwiches or wraps.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tbsp
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg