Creamy Mediterranean Feta & Walnut Delight
Elevate your appetizer game with this Creamy Mediterranean Feta & Walnut Delight! This luscious dip combines the briny richness of feta cheese with toasted walnuts and fresh herbs, creating a flavor explosion that’s sure to impress your guests. Perfect for gatherings, this dip is quick to whip up and pairs beautifully with fresh veggies, pita, and crispy flatbreads. Serve it at your next dinner party or casual get-together, and watch it disappear!
10
Servings
120
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
Feta cheese, crumbled
1 1/2 cups (plain or with Mediterranean herbs)
Whole milk
1/2 cup
Walnut pieces
1/2 cup (toasted)
Fresh oregano leaves
3-4 sprigs (stripped from stems)
Coarse black pepper
1 teaspoon
Lemon juice
1 teaspoon
Hot sauce
1 teaspoon
Roasted red pepper
1 (chopped, for garnish)
Kalamata olives
1/2 cup (chopped, for garnish)
English seedless cucumbers
2 (sliced for dipping (as many as needed))
Lavash bread
as needed (for dipping)
Pita bread
as needed (sliced for dipping)
Instructions
1
In a food processor, combine the crumbled feta cheese, whole milk, toasted walnut pieces, fresh oregano leaves, coarse black pepper, lemon juice, and hot sauce.
2
Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as necessary to ensure everything is well incorporated.
3
Transfer the feta dip to a serving bowl, using a spatula to smooth out the top if desired.
4
Garnish the dip with chopped roasted red peppers and kalamata olives, creating a beautiful and appetizing presentation.
5
Serve immediately with an assortment of crispy flatbreads, sliced pita bread, and fresh cucumber slices for dipping.
6
Enjoy this delightful Mediterranean-inspired dip with friends and family!
Nutrition Information
9
Fat
4.5
Carbs
5.1
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Mediterranean Feta & Walnut Delight?
It is a luscious appetizer dip that combines the briny richness of feta cheese with the crunch of toasted walnuts and fresh Mediterranean herbs.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to serve approximately 10 people.
Is this dip easy to prepare?
Yes, it is a quick and simple recipe that primarily involves blending ingredients in a food processor.
Can I use a blender if I do not have a food processor?
Yes, a blender can be used, though you may need to scrape down the sides more frequently to ensure a smooth consistency.
What are the main ingredients in this feta dip?
The main ingredients include crumbled feta cheese, whole milk, toasted walnuts, fresh oregano, and lemon juice.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 120 calories.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it contains no meat products.
Is the Creamy Mediterranean Feta & Walnut Delight gluten-free?
The dip itself is gluten-free, but you should serve it with cucumber slices instead of pita or lavash bread to maintain a gluten-free meal.
What kind of feta cheese is recommended?
You can use plain crumbled feta or feta seasoned with Mediterranean herbs for added depth of flavor.
How should I toast the walnut pieces?
You can toast them in a dry pan over medium heat for 3-5 minutes or in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until fragrant.
Can I substitute the whole milk?
You can use a lower-fat milk or even heavy cream, though whole milk provides the ideal balance of creaminess.
How much protein is in each serving?
There are 5.1 grams of protein per serving.
Is this dip spicy?
It has a very mild kick from the teaspoon of hot sauce and black pepper, but it is not considered a spicy dish.
What should I serve with this dip?
It pairs beautifully with sliced English seedless cucumbers, pita bread, and crispy lavash flatbreads.
Can I use dried oregano instead of fresh?
Yes, but use only about 1 teaspoon of dried oregano as it is more concentrated than fresh sprigs.
How do I garnish the dip for a party?
Garnish with chopped roasted red peppers and kalamata olives for a colorful and professional presentation.
How long does the dip stay fresh?
The dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, making it a few hours ahead allows the flavors to meld together nicely.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
No, this recipe contains no added sugars.
Can I freeze the feta and walnut dip?
Freezing is not recommended as the dairy and nuts may change texture and separate upon thawing.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 9 grams of fat.
Can I add garlic to this recipe?
Yes, adding a clove of roasted or fresh garlic would complement the Mediterranean flavors well.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 4.5 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Can I substitute walnuts with other nuts?
Toasted pine nuts or almonds would be suitable alternatives if you have a walnut allergy or preference.
What type of cucumber is best for dipping?
English seedless cucumbers are best because they have a thinner skin and less watery core.
Is the hot sauce necessary?
The hot sauce adds a subtle acidity and depth, but it can be omitted if you prefer a very mild flavor.
What color should the dip be?
The dip will be a creamy off-white color with small flecks of herbs and walnuts.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of milk?
Yes, substituting milk with Greek yogurt will result in a thicker, tangier dip.
Should this be served cold or warm?
This dip is best served chilled or at room temperature.
How many ingredients are required in total?
There are 12 ingredients including the garnishes and items for dipping.