Looking for a quick and delicious appetizer that will wow your guests? Look no further than this Whipped Feta Dip with Garlic, Herbs, and Jalapeno! In just 10 minutes, you can whip up a creamy, tangy dip that perfectly balances the richness of feta with the kick of jalapeno and the freshness of herbs. Whether you're hosting a party or just craving a snack, this Mediterranean-inspired dip is sure to become a favorite. Get ready to impress with a dish that's as easy to make as it is delightful to eat!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz feta cheese
- 1/4 cup cream cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 jalapeno, seeded and chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (thyme, parsley, or dill)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 oz of feta cheese, 1/4 cup of cream cheese, 1/4 cup of olive oil, 2 cloves of garlic, 1 jalapeno (seeded and chopped), 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs (such as thyme, parsley, or dill), and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a medium mixing bowl, crumble the feta cheese into smaller pieces to make it easier to blend.
- Add the cream cheese to the bowl with the crumbled feta. This will create a creamy base for your dip.
- Peel the garlic cloves and mince them finely. You can use a garlic press for convenience, or finely chop them with a knife.
- Incorporate the minced garlic into the cheese mixture, stirring well to combine the flavors.
- Next, add the chopped jalapeno to the bowl. If you prefer less heat, ensure that you remove all the seeds and membranes before chopping.
- Pour in the olive oil, which will help to blend the ingredients smoothly and add richness to the dip.
- Chop your choice of fresh herbs finely and add them to the mixture. This will provide a fresh flavor that complements the feta.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a small amount, as the feta can be quite salty, and adjust according to your preference.
- Using a hand mixer or a food processor, blend all the ingredients together until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend for a shorter time.
- Once blended to your desired consistency, taste the dip and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Transfer the whipped feta dip to a serving bowl. You can drizzle a little extra olive oil on top for presentation, and sprinkle some additional herbs if desired.
- Serve the dip immediately with your choice of dippers such as pita chips, fresh vegetables, or crusty bread. Enjoy your Mediterranean-inspired whipped feta dip!
Tips
- Choose Quality Feta: Opt for high-quality feta cheese for the best flavor. Greek feta is typically creamier and more flavorful than others.
- Adjust the Heat: If you're sensitive to spice, make sure to remove all the seeds and membranes from the jalapeno. You can also substitute with a milder pepper, like a bell pepper, for a sweet touch without the heat.
- Blend to Your Liking: For a smooth and creamy dip, blend the ingredients until fully combined. If you prefer a chunkier texture, pulse the mixture just a few times.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs! While thyme, parsley, and dill are great choices, you can also try basil or oregano for a unique twist.
- Serve Fresh: This dip is best enjoyed fresh. If you need to make it ahead of time, store it in an airtight container in the fridge and give it a good stir before serving.
- Perfect Pairings: Serve your whipped feta dip with a variety of dippers like pita chips, fresh veggies, or crusty bread to create a colorful and appetizing platter.
- Garnish for Presentation: A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top not only enhance the flavor but also make for a beautiful presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 45mg
