Mediterranean Whipped Feta Delight
Indulge in this creamy and flavorful Mediterranean Whipped Feta Delight, a perfect spread for gatherings or as a delightful appetizer. Combining the tanginess of feta cheese with the richness of toasted walnuts, aromatic garlic, and vibrant herbs, this spread is infused with the warmth of red pepper paste and extra virgin olive oil. It's a simple yet sophisticated addition to any table, ideal for serving with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables. Prepare ahead for the best flavor development, and watch as your guests rave about this delightful dip!
12
Servings
29
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Feta cheese
8 ounces (mashed)
Walnuts
1/4 cup (toasted and finely ground)
Garlic
2 cloves (mashed)
Red pepper paste
2 tablespoons (none)
Extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons (none)
Fresh oregano
1 tablespoon (chopped)
Fresh mint
1 tablespoon (chopped)
Salt
1/4 teaspoon (none)
Pepper
1/4 teaspoon (freshly ground)
Bay leaf
1 (none)
Instructions
1
Start by placing the feta cheese on a large plate. Use a fork to mash the cheese until it's smooth and creamy.
2
In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed feta with toasted walnuts, mashed garlic cloves, red pepper paste, extra virgin olive oil, fresh oregano, fresh mint, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together thoroughly until well incorporated.
3
Create a small well in the center of the spread and gently place a bay leaf in the well.
4
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
5
When ready to serve, stir the mixture well to combine. Remember to remove the bay leaf before serving.
6
Transfer the whipped feta to a serving dish, drizzle with a little extra olive oil if desired, and enjoy with your favorite dippers!
Nutrition Information
2.5g
Fat
0.83g
Carbs
1.25g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mediterranean Whipped Feta Delight?
It is a creamy and flavorful spread combining tangy feta cheese with toasted walnuts, garlic, red pepper paste, and fresh herbs.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 12 servings.
Is this Mediterranean Whipped Feta recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains cheese, nuts, and vegetables but no meat.
What are the primary ingredients in this dip?
The main ingredients are feta cheese, toasted walnuts, garlic, red pepper paste, extra virgin olive oil, fresh oregano, and fresh mint.
How many calories are in one serving of this feta spread?
There are approximately 29 calories per serving.
How much fat is in the Mediterranean Whipped Feta Delight?
Each serving contains about 2.5 grams of fat.
What is the carbohydrate content per serving?
Each serving has approximately 0.83 grams of carbohydrates.
How much protein is provided in one serving?
One serving contains roughly 1.25 grams of protein.
How long should I refrigerate the dip before serving?
It is recommended to refrigerate the mixture for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Should the bay leaf be eaten?
No, you should remove the bay leaf from the spread before serving your guests.
What should I serve with this whipped feta?
This spread pairs perfectly with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh raw vegetables.
How do I prepare the feta for the recipe?
Place the feta on a large plate and use a fork to mash it until it is smooth and creamy.
How should the walnuts be prepared?
The walnuts should be toasted and then finely ground before being added to the mix.
What type of olive oil is best for this recipe?
Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for the best flavor and richness.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
While fresh oregano and mint are preferred for vibrancy, you can use dried herbs in smaller quantities if fresh are unavailable.
What gives the dip its red color and heat?
The red pepper paste provides both the distinct color and a mild warmth to the spread.
Is this recipe considered a healthy snack?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy snack due to its low calorie count and use of fresh ingredients and healthy fats.
Can this be made in advance for a party?
Absolutely, it is actually better when prepared ahead of time to allow the flavors to develop.
How much garlic is needed?
The recipe calls for 2 cloves of garlic, which should be mashed.
Is there any salt added to the recipe?
Yes, 1/4 teaspoon of salt is included, though the feta cheese itself is naturally salty.
What is the origin style of this dish?
This dish is categorized under Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine.
What is the preparation time like for this dip?
The active preparation is quick, involving mashing and mixing, though it requires a 4-hour chilling period.
Does this recipe contain any sugar?
No, there is no added sugar in this recipe.
How much red pepper paste is used?
The recipe requires 2 tablespoons of red pepper paste.
Can I use a food processor for the feta?
While the instructions say to use a fork, a food processor can be used for a much smoother, whipped consistency.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
What should the consistency of the spread be?
The spread should be smooth and creamy with a slight texture from the ground walnuts.
Is the garlic raw in this recipe?
Yes, the garlic is mashed and mixed in raw, providing a sharp and aromatic flavor.
Can I omit the walnuts if I have an allergy?
Yes, you can omit them, though you will lose the specific nutty flavor and texture they provide.
Should I stir the dip again after refrigeration?
Yes, stir the mixture well after removing it from the fridge and before transferring it to a serving dish.