Whipped Feta Dip with Roasted Tomatoes Recipe
This Whipped Feta Dip with Roasted Tomatoes is a luscious, creamy dip combining the smokey sweetness of oven-roasted cherry tomatoes and garlic with the tangy richness of whipped feta cheese. Enhanced by warm spices like cumin and cinnamon, and finished with fresh herbs and chili flakes, it makes a perfect appetizer or snack that’s both elegant and easy to prepare.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Roasted Tomatoes & Garlic
- 13 oz cherry tomatoes (350-400 grams), halved
- 15 garlic cloves, peeled but left whole (medium cloves)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
Whipped Feta Dip
- 8 oz feta cheese (200-225 grams), smooth kind like Danish feta, broken into chunks
- ¾ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt as alternative)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
- 2 tablespoons water (if using sour cream, to adjust consistency)
- Chili flakes, to taste
- Chopped fresh mint, for garnish
Instructions
- Make Roasted Tomatoes & Garlic: Preheat your oven to 180°C (355°F). Cut the cherry tomatoes in half and peel the garlic cloves, keeping them whole.
Place the tomatoes and garlic on a flat baking sheet. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons olive oil, then sprinkle evenly with cumin seeds, cinnamon powder, and salt. Use your hands to toss everything gently, spreading the tomatoes with the cut side up on the tray to retain their juices during roasting.
- Roast: Place the tray in the preheated oven and roast for 35-40 minutes. There’s no need to stir or turn the tomatoes, but to ensure even roasting, you may rotate the baking tray halfway if your oven has hot spots.
Once roasted, remove the tray and allow the tomatoes and garlic to cool slightly. Using a spatula, scrape all the tomatoes, garlic, and their juices into a bowl. Set this mixture aside.
- Prepare Whipped Feta Dip: In preparation for whipping the feta, choose your blending tool: a food processor, high-speed blender, electric whisk, or stick blender.
Break the feta cheese into chunks and place it in a bowl. Add the sour cream (or Greek yogurt if preferred) for a tangier flavor. For a creamier dip, sour cream is recommended. Drizzle in 2 tablespoons olive oil and add 2 tablespoons water if using sour cream to help achieve a smooth consistency.
- Whip: Blend the feta mixture until it is whipped and smooth in texture. Pause occasionally to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is incorporated evenly. If the mixture feels too thick and the blender struggles, add a small additional splash of water until the desired consistency is reached.
- Assemble and Serve: Transfer the whipped feta dip to a serving bowl. Spoon the roasted tomatoes and garlic mixture on top or swirl it gently into the dip. Drizzle more olive oil over the top, sprinkle with chili flakes and chopped fresh mint to garnish.
This dip is delicious served with crusty bread, pita, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Notes
- Using sour cream creates a creamier and milder dip; Greek yogurt offers a tangier flavor.
- Keep the cherry tomatoes cut side up while roasting to preserve their juicy texture.
- The roasted tomatoes with garlic can be made ahead and stored refrigerated, which also enhances their flavor.
- Adjust the chili flakes to your preferred spice level.
- Drizzle extra olive oil on top for a richer finish and better presentation.
