Discover the irresistible allure of Greek cuisine with Spicy Whipped Feta, a delightful meze classic that elevates the tangy and salty notes of feta cheese to new heights. This recipe presents a unique transformation, turning crumbled feta into a velvety, smooth dip that’s both rich and light. Simplicity is key here, as a few carefully chosen flavors come together to create a cheesy dip that’s bursting with character. The technique of rinsing the feta ensures that the dip maintains a harmonious balance without becoming overly salty. A generous amount of cayenne pepper adds a subtle background heat that beautifully complements the feta, while extra-virgin olive oil introduces fruity undertones and a touch of richness. The bright lemon juice offsets the cheese’s saltiness, resulting in a well-rounded flavor profile. While it might seem like a lot of feta, keep in mind that its volume will significantly reduce during processing. For a milder version, simply reduce the amount of cayenne pepper. This dip pairs excellently with Olive Oil–Sea Salt Pita Chips or pita wedges, offering a savory and spicy indulgence.
MAKES 2 CUPS, SERVES 8
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 pound feta cheese, crumbled (4 cups)
- ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon pepper
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Rinse the feta under cold running water and gently pat it dry using paper towels.
- In a food processor, combine the rinsed feta, ⅓ cup of olive oil, lemon juice, cayenne pepper, and pepper.
- Process the mixture until it achieves a smooth consistency, which should take about 20 seconds.
- Transfer the whipped feta mixture to a serving bowl and drizzle with additional olive oil to taste.
- Serve the Spicy Whipped Feta dip alongside Olive Oil–Sea Salt Pita Chips, pita wedges, or your choice of fresh vegetables.
- The dip can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. Remember to bring it to room temperature before serving to fully appreciate its flavors.
TIPS:
- Rinsing Feta: Rinsing the feta under cold running water and patting it dry helps moderate its saltiness, ensuring a balanced and enjoyable dip.
- Smooth Processing: Achieving a smooth consistency is essential for the dip’s appeal. Process the feta, olive oil, lemon juice, cayenne pepper, and pepper in a food processor until perfectly smooth.
- Background Heat: The cayenne pepper provides a subtle, lingering heat that complements the feta’s flavors. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
- Lemon Balance: The lemon juice brightens the dip’s flavors and counters the saltiness of the cheese. Adjust the lemon juice to achieve your preferred level of tanginess.
- Olive Oil Drizzle: Drizzling additional olive oil over the dip before serving adds a luxurious texture and enhances its fruity notes.
- Serving Options: Accompany this dip with Olive Oil–Sea Salt Pita Chips or pita wedges for a complete Mediterranean experience. It also pairs well with fresh vegetables.
Indulge in the enticing flavors of Spicy Whipped Feta, a luscious Greek meze that strikes the perfect balance between creamy, tangy, and spicy. This dip invites you to savor the goodness of feta cheese in a whole new way, making it a versatile addition to any gathering or culinary adventure.
