Whipped Feta Dip

Oct 11, 2023

Whipped feta dip is a creamy and flavorful crowd-pleasing appetizer. This simple, no-cook dip comes together in just minutes and pairs well with a variety of dippers and makes a show stopping plate for parties. You’ll love how the rich savory dip pairs with the sweetness of the honey. 

   

We use our tasty nut-based granola to break up the ultra-creamy texture in this recipe while also offering a sweet flavor contrast. The granola serves as a topping which ties all of the ingredients together while adding an extra boost of protein and healthy fats to every bite. NuTrail Honey Nut granola makes the perfect addition to this whipped feta dip, but feel free to experiment with your favorite flavor combinations to make this recipe your own. 

   

  

What is whipped feta? 

   

Whipped feta is made from feta cheese that has been blended. It can be blended in a food processor, blender or with an immersion blender. This breaks down the cheese and aerates it, turning it from a dense block to light, airy and dippable.  

  

Why You’ll Love It 

   

Irresistible Mediterranean Flavors - Feta cheese is a staple of Mediterranean cuisine, as is olive oil, honey, and fresh herbs. The combination of sweet and savory flavors presents a uniquely craveable dish that will keep you coming back for more. 

 

Versatile - This creamy dip can be served in many different ways. From appetizer plates to meal side dishes, and even condiment spreads for your turkey burgers, this dip adds concentrated delicious flavor that will elevate any meal. 

  

Easy to customize - This recipe provides a flavorful base for feta dip but you can easily customize it depending on your preferences. Swapping out the fresh herbs, topping it with kalamata olives or roasted tomatoes and garlic can all make for a beautiful presentation that tastes amazing.. 

  

    

Ingredients 

     

NuTrail Granola - NuTrail granola is added to this feta dip recipe for a burst of flavor that complements the honey and provides an amazing crunch. This recipe uses our Honey Nut variety. 

 

Feta - Feta cheese is the base of this dip. You’ll want to make sure you opt for the block variety rather than crumbled feta because the block will whip up beautifully, giving you a better final texture. It’s important to allow the feta to come to room temperature, which should take about 30 minutes on the counter. This will make for a much smoother dip and easier crumbling. Don’t let it sit out for more than two hours though, as this can cause bacteria growth.  

   

Greek yogurt - Plain Greek yogurt adds just a bit of acidity to neutralize the saltiness of the feta. It also offers a subtle punch of protein that makes this dish more satisfying.  

    

Cream cheese - Cream cheese helps stabilize the dip and gives it a thick, spreadable texture. 

  

Lemon - Just the zest of the lemon is used for this recipe. It adds a wonderfully vibrant flavor without thinning out the dip. But that extra lemon juice to use in our recipe for raspberry cheesecake mousse! 

   

Olive oil - Olive oil adds depth to the dip and gives it a full bodied taste. Be sure to use a high quality olive oil with a flavor you enjoy because the taste will still come through once the dip is fully mixed. Olive oil with added ingredients such as garlic and herbs are also delicious options you can use here. 

  

Honey - Honey coats the granola and adds a layer of sweetness to the dip. You may choose to leave it out if you prefer, or use hot honey in its place for a bit of added spice. 

    

Fresh Herbs - Fresh dill compliments the taste of feta cheese amazingly well. Alternatively, you can use parsley or opt for a mix of the two. Be sure to look for herbs that are firm in structure and vibrant in color for the best flavor.   

  

     

Why is my whipped feta runny? 

   

Your whipped feta dip could become runny if it’s been over blended. While it’s tempting to continue blending to achieve a completely smooth dip, doing so can damage the protein structure in the cheese and prevent it from holding the air that gives a whipped texture. To fix runny feta dip, simply add more feta cheese and blend until the desired consistency is reached. 

   

On the other hand, if your feta dip is too chunky, try adding an extra drizzle of olive oil to thin it out a bit. Typically it’s normal to have a few small chunks of feta within the dip.  

 

   

How to serve whipped feta dip  

  

- Try this dip on a mezze platter or charcuterie board that’s filled with meats, cheese veggies, olives, and other small snackable treats.  

  

- Elevate your veggie platter with this flavorful feta dip. Carrot sticks, broccoli, sliced peppers, and cucumbers make excellent additions and will all complement this dip. 

 

- For those who eat bread, it can be enjoyed on top of a crostini or alongside pita chips.  

  

- Use as a spread in sandwiches or lettuce wraps that are filled with grilled veggies and meat for a flavor filled lunch. 

  

- As part of a bowl meal alongside cauliflower rice or brown rice, veggies and grilled chicken.  

  

- Place a dollop on top of your tomato soup or roasted red pepper soup for a light and creamy finish that complements the dish’s bold flavors.  

   

Tips and Substitutions    

   

Goat cheese can be used in place of feta. It’s more creamy and has a distinct tangy that can benefit a number of dishes.  

  

- For the best results, be sure to use room-temperature feta. It’s much easier to whip when it’s room temperature and will result in a better overall consistency. 

  

- Add some spice to the dip by using crushed red peppers as a garnish. It will add a kick to the dip and will balance out the sweetness from the honey. Alternatively, you can use hot honey for drizzling. 

  

- Switch up the fresh herbs. Lots of fresh herbs not only will make this dish look appetizing but add a fresh tasting element. Dill and parsley can be used but feel to get creative and use your favorites such as rosemary, chives, or oregano. 

    

More from our blog: 

Air Fryer Baked Apples

Sugar 101: Natural Sugar Vs. Added Sugar

Healthy Snacks for a Guilt-Free Game Day

  

 

Whipped Feta Dip

Prep time: 10 minutes  

Cook time: N/A 

Yield:  2 cups, 2 tablespoons per serving  

  

Ingredients

8-ounces full fat feta cheese, room temperature  

1/2 cup plain Greek Yogurt 

2-ounces cream cheese, softened 

2 tablespoons olive oil 

1 teaspoon lemon zest  

1/4 teaspoon salt 

3 tablespoons honey 

1/4 cup NuTrail Honey Nut Granola  

2 tablespoons fresh herbs, chopped 

 

Directions

1. Cube the feta or break it into pieces and place it into a food processor or blender. 

2. Blend the feta until it is halfway broken down and small crumbles remain. Add in the Greek yogurt, cream cheese, olive oil, lemon zest, and salt then blend until a mostly smooth consistency, being careful not to over blend.  

3. Scrape the dip out of the food processor and into a bowl for serving.  

4. In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm the honey and the granola for 2-3 minutes. Drizzle the mixture on top of the dip in a swirl then garnish with fresh herbs as desired.