There is something irresistibly delightful about the Whipped Feta Dip with Roasted Olives Recipe that makes it an absolute must-have for your next gathering or cozy night in. This creamy, tangy dip is brilliantly balanced by the warm, aromatic olives roasted with garlic and herbs, delivering a Mediterranean flavor explosion in every bite. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or a snack, this recipe turns simple ingredients into an unforgettable treat that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the flavors just right is easier than you think with this recipe. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect harmony of creamy, tangy, and savory notes. With straightforward, fresh ingredients, you can whip up this dish without stress.
- 8 ounces feta cheese (block-style, not crumbled): Provides the rich, tangy base essential for creamy texture and bold flavor.
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened): Adds smoothness and mildness to balance the sharp feta.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for drizzling): Brings velvety richness and helps bind the dip together.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Introduces a fresh brightness that lifts the overall taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest: Enhances the citrus notes with subtle aromatic oils.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Offers a gentle kick and depth to the flavor profile.
- 1 cup mixed olives (pitted): These are star players once roasted, providing savory, briny bursts.
- 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced: Infuses the olives with a deliciously pungent warmth.
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary or thyme: Adds herbal freshness that pairs perfectly with the olives.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for roasting olives to develop a luscious texture and flavor.
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a little heat to contrast the creamy dip.
How to Make Whipped Feta Dip with Roasted Olives Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Olives
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), because those roasted olives are going to be the fragrant, savory jewels of this dish. Toss your mixed olives with the garlic slices, fresh herbs, olive oil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Pop them in a small baking dish and roast for about 12 to 15 minutes until they are slightly wrinkled and bursting with flavor. Let them cool slightly as this step elevates their texture and aroma.
Step 2: Whip Up the Feta Base
While the olives roast, take your block of feta, cream cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, and black pepper and add them to a food processor or blender. Blend until pureed and silky smooth, scraping down the sides to ensure every bit is whipped to perfection. If the dip feels too thick, a splash of water or milk will loosen it up perfectly, giving it that ideal creamy consistency to scoop up those luscious olives.
Step 3: Assemble the Dip
Transfer your whipped feta mixture into a shallow bowl or plate, then artistically swirl the top with the back of a spoon to create inviting peaks and valleys. Spoon the warm roasted olives and garlic generously over the dip, allowing their juices to mingle. Finish with a drizzle of extra olive oil and, if you’re feeling fancy, a sprinkle of fresh herbs for that irresistible finishing touch.
How to Serve Whipped Feta Dip with Roasted Olives Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Whipped Feta Dip with Roasted Olives Recipe truly pop, consider garnishing with a few extra fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary sprigs, a light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for color and a bit of zing. These add layers of visual appeal and flavor complexity without stealing the show.
Side Dishes
This dip pairs beautifully with an array of bites. Warm pita bread or crunchy crostini are the classics that never fail, offering a perfect vehicle for creamy dip and briny olives. For a fresh and healthy option, slice crisp cucumbers, colorful bell peppers, or even jicama to scoop up the luscious spread—ideal for balancing indulgence with freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve this dip in a rustic ceramic bowl surrounded by a variety of Mediterranean-inspired nibbles like roasted nuts, sun-dried tomatoes, or charcuterie. Another fun idea is to layer the dip in a clear glass container alternating whipped feta and roasted olives for a stunning visual effect that will get everyone excited before the first bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, fret not! Store the Whipped Feta Dip with Roasted Olives Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 days. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before serving so the flavors and textures are at their best.
Freezing
This dip is best enjoyed fresh and doesn’t freeze well because the texture of the cheese base and olives can change after thawing. For optimal flavor and creaminess, plan to consume it within a few days of making.
Reheating
If you want to warm it up, especially the olives on top, gently reheat the dip in a microwave-safe dish for short bursts of 15 seconds, stirring gently between intervals. Be cautious not to overheat, as it can affect the dip’s wonderful creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use crumbled feta instead of block feta for this recipe?
It’s best to use block feta rather than crumbled because block feta blends more smoothly when whipped, giving you that creamy, luscious texture essential for the dip.
What types of olives work best for roasting?
Mixed olives like Kalamata, Castelvetrano, and green olives are fantastic choices because they offer a variety of flavors and textures that come alive once roasted with garlic and herbs.
Is this dip suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This Whipped Feta Dip with Roasted Olives Recipe is vegetarian-friendly, packed with Mediterranean flavors and free from any animal products other than dairy.
Can I prepare this dip without a food processor?
While a food processor makes whisking everything smooth and easy, you can also mash the feta and cream cheese together thoroughly with a fork or whisk, though the texture may be slightly less creamy.
How long does the roasted olive topping keep?
Roasted olives can be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat them gently before adding to the dip for the best flavor and warmth.
Final Thoughts
This Whipped Feta Dip with Roasted Olives Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly marvelous. It’s creamy, savory, and bursting with Mediterranean charm—perfect for sharing with friends or savoring solo. I encourage you to try this recipe soon and watch it become a beloved staple in your appetizer rotation!
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Whipped Feta Dip with Roasted Olives Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
This Whipped Feta Dip with Roasted Olives is the ultimate Mediterranean-inspired appetizer that’s creamy, tangy, and bursting with flavor. The smooth whipped feta combined with warm, herb-infused roasted olives makes it perfect for entertaining or a satisfying snack. Serve with pita, crackers, or fresh veggies for a crowd-pleasing starter.
Ingredients
For the Dip
- 8 ounces feta cheese (block-style, not crumbled)
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Roasted Olives
- 1 cup mixed olives (pitted)
- 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary or thyme
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Roast the Olives: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a small baking dish, toss together the mixed olives, sliced garlic, fresh herbs, olive oil, and red pepper flakes if using. Roast in the oven for 12–15 minutes until the olives are warmed through and their skins are slightly wrinkled. Remove from oven and set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Whipped Feta: In a food processor or blender, combine the block feta, softened cream cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, and black pepper. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. If the dip is too thick, add a splash of water or milk to loosen the texture to your liking.
- Assemble the Dip: Transfer the whipped feta mixture to a shallow bowl or serving plate. Use the back of a spoon to create swirls on the surface. Spoon the warm roasted olives and garlic evenly over the top. Drizzle with additional olive oil and, if desired, sprinkle with fresh herbs for a bright finish.
- Serve: Serve the dip immediately with warm pita bread, crackers, crostini, or fresh vegetables for dipping. Enjoy as a flavorful appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Use a good-quality feta cheese for the best flavor and creamy texture.
- This dip can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Bring to room temperature before serving for best texture and flavor.
- The roasted olives can also be enjoyed on their own as a flavorful topping for grilled meats or salads.
