Roasted Garlic and Herb Whipped Feta

Roasted garlic and herb whipped feta is an irresistibly creamy, flavorful spread that’s perfect for appetizers, snacking, or as a versatile addition to any meal. This dish combines the tangy richness of feta cheese with the nutty sweetness of roasted garlic and the fresh, aromatic essence of herbs. Blended to a smooth, fluffy consistency, whipped feta is easy to make, visually stunning, and incredibly versatile.

Whether served with warm pita, fresh veggies, crackers, or even as a topping for roasted vegetables or grilled meats, this whipped feta is a surefire crowd-pleaser. Its luxurious texture and bold flavor profile make it suitable for casual gatherings, elegant dinner parties, or even as a quick weekday treat. Let’s explore how to create this restaurant-quality spread in your own kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: Whipping the feta creates a light, velvety texture that’s perfect for spreading or dipping.
• Bold Flavors: Roasted garlic adds a mellow sweetness that complements the tangy feta and fresh herbs.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes with minimal effort.
• Versatile: Pair it with bread, crackers, veggies, or use it as a condiment or sauce.
• Customizable: Adjust the herbs and seasonings to match your taste preferences.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes (for roasting garlic)
• Total time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings (about 2 cups)
• Serving Size: ¼ cup

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 120
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 1g

Ingredients

For the Whipped Feta:

• 8 ounces (225g) block feta cheese, crumbled
• 4 ounces (115g) cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 head of garlic
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for balance)
• 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (e.g., dill, parsley, basil, or chives), finely chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings:

• Additional fresh herbs, chopped
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Lemon zest
• Toasted pine nuts
• Drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze

For Serving:

• Warm pita bread
• Crackers or crostini
• Fresh vegetables (carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers)
• Roasted vegetables or grilled meats (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice off the top of the garlic head to expose the cloves. Place the garlic on a sheet of aluminum foil, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
3. Wrap the garlic in the foil and roast for 20–25 minutes, or until the cloves are soft and golden. Allow to cool slightly before squeezing the cloves out of their skins.

Step 2: Blend the Feta

1. In a food processor, combine the crumbled feta, softened cream cheese, and olive oil. Pulse until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the roasted garlic cloves, lemon juice, and honey (if using). Blend again until fully incorporated and fluffy.

Step 3: Incorporate Herbs

1. Transfer the whipped feta to a mixing bowl. Gently fold in the fresh herbs using a spatula.
2. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Adjust lemon juice or honey for balance, if desired.

Step 4: Serve

1. Transfer the whipped feta to a serving dish. Use the back of a spoon to create swirls or peaks for a decorative presentation.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and garnish with additional herbs, crushed red pepper flakes, lemon zest, or other desired toppings.
3. Serve immediately with pita, crackers, or vegetables, or refrigerate until ready to use.

Ingredient Background

• Feta Cheese: A tangy, salty cheese that provides the base for the dish. Use high-quality block feta for the best texture and flavor.
• Roasted Garlic: Roasting garlic mellows its sharpness and adds a nutty sweetness that complements the feta.
• Cream Cheese: Adds creaminess and helps achieve the whipped texture.
• Olive Oil: Enhances the creaminess and adds a subtle fruity note.
• Fresh Herbs: Dill, parsley, basil, and chives add brightness and balance the richness of the cheese.

Technique Tips

• Use Block Feta: Pre-crumbled feta often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.
• Roast Garlic Until Soft: Properly roasted garlic should be soft and spreadable, with a golden color and sweet flavor.
• Don’t Over-Salt: Feta is naturally salty, so taste the mixture before adding additional salt.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Layered Dip: Layer the whipped feta with hummus, roasted red peppers, or olives for a Mediterranean-inspired dip.
• Feta Spread Platter: Spread the whipped feta on a platter and top with olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and toasted nuts for a vibrant appetizer.
• Stuffed Vegetables: Use the whipped feta as a filling for cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini boats.

Additional Tips for Success

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Use softened cream cheese and room-temperature feta for smoother blending.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the whipped feta up to 2 days in advance and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Serve at Room Temperature: Let the whipped feta sit out for 15 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Whipped Feta: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a teaspoon of harissa paste for a kick of heat.
• Lemon-Herb Feta: Increase the lemon juice and add lemon zest for a brighter flavor.
• Nutty Whipped Feta: Fold in toasted nuts, such as pine nuts or walnuts, for added texture and flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store whipped feta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Whipped feta can be frozen for up to 2 months, but the texture may slightly change upon thawing. Defrost in the refrigerator and stir well before serving.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Low-Fat Option: Use low-fat cream cheese and reduced-fat feta for a lighter version.
• Dairy-Free Version: Substitute feta with a vegan feta alternative and cream cheese with cashew cream.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate finely chopped roasted red peppers or spinach into the whipped feta for added nutrients.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Appetizer Spread: Serve whipped feta alongside hummus, tzatziki, and baba ganoush for a Mediterranean appetizer platter.
• Brunch Idea: Spread whipped feta on toast or bagels and top with smoked salmon, capers, and fresh dill.
• Dinner Party Side: Pair whipped feta with roasted lamb, grilled chicken, or baked salmon as a flavorful side or topping.

Special Equipment

• Food processor or high-powered blender for whipping
• Roasting pan or aluminum foil for garlic
• Mixing bowl for folding in herbs

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use pre-crumbled feta?
Yes, but block feta yields a creamier, smoother texture. Pre-crumbled feta may result in a grainier consistency.

Q2: Can I skip the cream cheese?
You can, but the whipped feta may be less creamy. Substitute with Greek yogurt or a splash of heavy cream for a similar effect.

Q3: Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, the whipped feta is naturally gluten-free. Pair it with gluten-free crackers or veggies for a complete gluten-free option.

Q4: What herbs work best?
Dill, parsley, basil, and chives are excellent choices, but you can use any herbs you enjoy.

Q5: Can I serve this warm?
Yes, gently warm the whipped feta in an oven-safe dish at 300°F (150°C) for 10–15 minutes.

Q6: What if I don’t have a food processor?
Use a hand mixer or blender to achieve a similar whipped consistency.

Q7: Can I use jarred roasted garlic?
Yes, but fresh roasted garlic offers a richer, sweeter flavor.

Q8: How do I fix overly salty whipped feta?
Balance the saltiness with a bit of honey, cream cheese, or extra olive oil.

Conclusion

Roasted garlic and herb whipped feta is a simple yet sophisticated dish that’s bursting with flavor and versatility. Whether served as an appetizer, dip, or spread, this recipe elevates any occasion with its creamy texture, tangy taste, and herbaceous aroma. The combination of roasted garlic’s mellow sweetness and feta’s sharp, tangy richness creates an irresistible balance of flavors. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from warm pita and crackers to fresh vegetables or grilled meats. Perfect for casual get-togethers or elegant dinner parties, this whipped feta is guaranteed to impress. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the magic of Mediterranean flavors in every bite!

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