Creamy Feta and Garlic Herb Spread
Indulge in this Creamy Feta and Garlic Herb Spread that perfectly combines rich feta cheese, aromatic garlic, and a hint of spice. This dip is not just simple to prepare but also elevates any gathering, making it a perfect accompaniment for your favorite crackers or fresh country bread. Enjoy the delightful flavors of Mediterranean herbs, all in a smooth and creamy mixture that's sure to impress your guests or elevate your snack time!
1
Servings
440
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Feta cheese
1/2 lb (crumbled)
Garlic
2 cloves (mashed)
Olive oil
2 tablespoons (extra virgin)
Oregano
1/3 teaspoon (dried)
Tabasco sauce
1/2 teaspoon (optional)
Instructions
1
In a mixing bowl, add the crumbled feta cheese and mash it until smooth.
2
Stir in the mashed garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, and Tabasco sauce (if using) to the bowl.
3
Mix all the ingredients together thoroughly until you achieve a creamy consistency. Alternatively, for a smoother texture, place all ingredients in a food processor and blend on low speed until combined.
4
Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more olive oil if a smoother texture is desired.
5
Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and enjoy with your choice of crackers, pita chips, or slices of fresh country bread.
Nutrition Information
36g
Fat
8g
Carbs
24g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Feta and Garlic Herb Spread?
It is a rich Mediterranean-style dip that combines crumbled feta cheese, aromatic mashed garlic, and dried oregano for a smooth and savory snack.
What are the primary ingredients for this feta spread?
The main ingredients include 1/2 lb of feta cheese, 2 cloves of garlic, 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 1/3 teaspoon of dried oregano, and an optional 1/2 teaspoon of Tabasco sauce.
How do I make the spread smoother?
To achieve a smoother texture, you can process all ingredients in a food processor on low speed or incrementally add more olive oil while mixing.
Can I prepare this recipe without a food processor?
Yes, you can simply mash the feta cheese in a mixing bowl with a fork and stir in the other ingredients until you reach a creamy consistency.
Is this feta dip spicy?
It has a mild kick from the raw garlic and optional Tabasco sauce, but you can omit the Tabasco if you prefer a non-spicy version.
What should I serve with this spread?
It pairs perfectly with crackers, pita chips, or slices of fresh country bread.
How many calories are in this recipe?
One serving of this spread contains approximately 440 calories.
Is there a vegan version of this dip?
While the traditional recipe uses dairy feta, you can use a plant-based feta alternative to make it vegan-friendly.
What is the protein content of the Creamy Feta Spread?
This spread is quite high in protein, offering 24g per serving.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried oregano?
Yes, fresh herbs like oregano, dill, or parsley can be substituted, though you may need to increase the quantity slightly for the same flavor intensity.
How much fat is in this recipe?
The spread contains 36g of fat, which comes from the feta cheese and the extra virgin olive oil.
How do I prepare the garlic for this recipe?
The garlic should be peeled and mashed thoroughly before being added to the cheese mixture.
Is this recipe suitable for a Mediterranean diet?
Yes, with its use of feta, garlic, and olive oil, it fits perfectly into a Mediterranean-style diet.
How long does it take to prepare?
This is a quick recipe that takes only about 5 to 10 minutes to assemble and mix.
Does this spread contain any sugar?
No, this recipe contains no added sugar.
Can I use this as a sandwich spread?
Absolutely! It works as a delicious, savory alternative to mayonnaise or cream cheese on sandwiches and wraps.
Is this dip gluten-free?
The spread itself is gluten-free, but ensure you serve it with gluten-free crackers or bread if you have a sensitivity.
How much olive oil is required?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil.
Can I add lemon juice to the recipe?
Yes, a splash of lemon juice is a common variation that adds a bright acidity to the salty feta.
What type of feta is best?
A high-quality sheep's milk feta or a Greek feta in brine typically offers the creamiest texture and best flavor.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any remaining spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
Can I freeze this feta spread?
Freezing is not recommended as it can change the texture of the cheese and cause the oil to separate.
Is the Tabasco sauce mandatory?
No, the Tabasco sauce is listed as optional and can be excluded without ruining the dish.
Can I use roasted garlic instead?
Yes, substituting roasted garlic will give the spread a sweeter, milder, and more complex flavor compared to raw garlic.
What is the carbohydrate count?
This spread is low in carbohydrates, containing only 8g per serving.
How do I mash the feta?
You can use the back of a fork or a potato masher to break down the feta crumbles into a smoother paste.
Can I add cream cheese to make it even creamier?
Yes, many people blend in a bit of cream cheese to soften the sharp flavor of the feta and increase spreadability.
Is this spread good for parties?
Yes, it is an excellent appetizer or party dip because it is easy to make in advance and stays stable at room temperature for a while.
Does it require extra salt?
Feta cheese is naturally very salty, so it is usually not necessary to add more salt, but you can season to taste.
What is the serving size for this nutrition data?
The nutrition data provided (440 calories) is for the entire batch produced by the recipe quantities listed.