Description
This fool-proof whipped feta dip combines creamy whipped feta and cream cheese with a zesty lemon touch, topped with warm, bursting roasted cherry tomatoes and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It’s a vibrant, flavorful dip perfect for serving with crusty bread, pita chips, or veggie sticks, making an impressive appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Whipped Feta Dip
- 8 oz good quality block feta cheese, drained
- 4 oz cream cheese (for stability and creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons high-quality olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
For the Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
- 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons thick quality balsamic glaze
- Fresh basil or mint, chopped
Instructions
- Roast the Tomatoes: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cherry tomatoes on a sheet pan with olive oil, salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Roast for 10-12 minutes until the tomatoes are soft and just beginning to burst.
- Whip the Feta Mixture: While the tomatoes roast, add the drained feta cheese, cream cheese, a splash of olive oil, and lemon juice into a food processor. Blend until smooth, creamy, and cloud-like, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides as needed.
- Assemble the Dip: Spread the whipped feta mixture onto a serving dish or shallow bowl. Use a spatula to create a slight well in the center and add swoops and dips for texture.
- Top and Garnish: Spoon the warm, roasted cherry tomatoes and their pan juices over the center of the whipped feta. Drizzle generously with balsamic glaze and sprinkle chopped fresh basil or mint on top for a fresh flavor and color contrast.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the dip right away with crusty bread, pita chips, or crunchy vegetable sticks to enjoy the contrast of warm tomatoes against cool, creamy feta.
Notes
- Use good quality feta for the best texture and flavor.
- Draining the feta cheese well prevents the dip from becoming watery.
- The food processor is essential to achieve the silky smooth texture.
- Balsamic glaze adds a necessary sweetness and visual appeal.
- Serve immediately to maintain the contrast of warm tomatoes and cold dip.
- Leftover dip can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days but won’t be as fresh served cold with warm tomatoes.
