Creamy Herbal Feta Cheese Dip
This Creamy Herbal Feta Cheese Dip brings the rich flavors of the Middle East to your table with a delightful blend of tangy feta cheese, zesty lemon, and aromatic herbs. Originating from the culinary traditions shared by many cultures in Southwest Asia, this dip is perfect for gatherings, barbecues, or as a quick snack. Serve it alongside warm, toasted pita wedges or crunchy crackers for a delicious treat that will leave everyone coming back for more. Enhance the dish by customizing it with your favorite herbs and spices to suit your taste!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Feta cheese
8 ounces (crumbled)
Lemon juice
2 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
Vegetable oil
2 tablespoons (none)
Olive oil
1 1/2 tablespoons (none)
Herbs/Spices (optional)
1 teaspoon (dill, oregano, garlic powder, or to taste)
Instructions
1
In a mixing bowl, crumble the feta cheese using a fork. Continue to mash until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency.
2
Drizzle in the vegetable oil and olive oil, followed by the fresh lemon juice. Mix well until fully incorporated.
3
To amplify the flavor, consider adding your choice of herbs or spices. Begin with classic options like dill, oregano, or garlic powder at 1 teaspoon each. For bolder accents, try cumin or caraway seeds, starting at 1/8 teaspoon and adjusting to suit your palate.
4
Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5
Serve chilled or at room temperature with toasted pita wedges or your favorite crackers.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Herbal Feta Cheese Dip?
This is a tangy and zesty spread inspired by Middle Eastern culinary traditions, featuring feta cheese, lemon, and aromatic herbs.
What are the main ingredients for this recipe?
The core ingredients include 8 ounces of feta cheese, fresh lemon juice, vegetable oil, olive oil, and your choice of herbs or spices.
How do I achieve a creamy consistency?
You can achieve a creamy texture by mashing the crumbled feta cheese thoroughly with a fork until smooth.
What oils are recommended for this dip?
The recipe calls for a combination of 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and 1.5 tablespoons of olive oil.
Can I use only olive oil?
Yes, you can substitute the vegetable oil with more olive oil if you prefer a more robust, traditional Mediterranean flavor.
Which herbs work best with this feta dip?
Classic options include dill, oregano, or garlic powder, while cumin and caraway seeds offer bolder accents.
Is this dip suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it consists of cheese, oils, citrus, and herbal seasonings.
How long does it take to prepare?
The preparation is quick, but you should allow at least 30 minutes for the dip to chill in the refrigerator.
Should this dip be served cold?
It can be served either chilled or at room temperature depending on your preference.
What should I serve with the feta dip?
It pairs perfectly with toasted pita wedges, crunchy crackers, or fresh sliced vegetables.
Where does this dip originate from?
It originates from the diverse culinary traditions found throughout Southwest Asia and the Middle East.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for the best zesty flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
How much feta cheese is needed?
The recipe requires 8 ounces of crumbled feta cheese.
Can I make this dip in a food processor?
Yes, using a food processor or blender can help you achieve an even smoother, whipped-like consistency.
What is the serving size for this recipe?
The serving size is not specified, but the 8 ounces of cheese makes a substantial amount for a small gathering.
Can I add garlic to the recipe?
Absolutely, garlic powder or fresh minced garlic is highly recommended to enhance the savory profile.
How long can I store this dip?
When kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the dip should stay fresh for 3 to 5 days.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The dip itself is gluten-free, provided you serve it with gluten-free crackers or vegetables.
Can I use caraway seeds?
Yes, caraway seeds can be added starting at 1/8 teaspoon for a unique and bold flavor profile.
What can I do if the dip is too thick?
If the dip is too thick, you can stir in a small additional amount of olive oil or a teaspoon of water.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, dried herbs like oregano and dill work very well in this recipe and are easy to incorporate.
How much spice should I add?
Start with 1 teaspoon for mild herbs like dill, and 1/8 teaspoon for stronger spices like cumin.
Why must the dip be refrigerated for 30 minutes?
Chilling allows the oils, lemon juice, and herbs to meld with the cheese for a more cohesive flavor.
Is this dip good for parties?
Yes, it is an excellent appetizer for gatherings, barbecues, or as a quick snack for guests.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While feta is traditional, you could try goat cheese for a similar tangy result, though the texture may vary.
Can I make this dip spicy?
Yes, you can add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to give the dip a spicy kick.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 5 primary ingredient categories: feta, lemon juice, vegetable oil, olive oil, and herbs.
Is this a low-carb snack?
Yes, the dip itself is low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for many low-carb diets.
Can I freeze the feta dip?
Freezing is not recommended as it can cause the oils to separate and change the texture of the cheese.
What is the best way to crumble feta?
You can easily crumble feta by hand or use a fork to break it into small pieces before mashing.