Whipped Feta Dip Recipe
If you’re on the lookout for a dip that bursts with vibrant flavor and creamy texture, then this Whipped Feta Dip is an absolute must-try. Smooth, tangy feta whipped to perfection creates a luscious base, while the fresh sugar snap peas tossed in a zesty shallot vinaigrette add an irresistible crunch and brightness. It’s one of those simple yet elegant dishes that looks stunning on the table and tastes like it took way longer to prepare than just 15 minutes. Whether you’re entertaining or just craving a refreshing snack, this Whipped Feta Dip is guaranteed to delight your palate and impress your guests.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for a handful of simple, fresh ingredients that work together beautifully to create a well-rounded flavor profile. Each component plays a crucial role—whether it’s the creamy richness of the feta and cream cheese, the crisp snap of sugar snap peas, or the bright lemon and shallot dressing that ties everything together.
- Feta cheese (8 ounces): Using a block of feta in brine ensures a fresh, tangy base that whips up smooth and creamy.
- Cream cheese (4 ounces): Adds luxurious creaminess for that perfect dip consistency.
- Sugar snap peas (8 ounces): Provide a crisp, sweet contrast; blanching them just right keeps them bright and crunchy.
- Lemon zest and juice: Bring brightness and a subtle zing that lifts all the flavors.
- Shallot (1 small): Offers a delicate onion flavor that’s mild but flavorful when finely minced.
- Garlic clove (1 small): Adds depth and a gentle pungency, finely grated so it blends smoothly into the dressing.
- Extra virgin olive oil (¼ cup plus 1 tablespoon): Creates a silky dressing and helps the whipped feta reach its luscious texture.
- Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): Enhances the dressing with a subtle kick and emulsifying power.
- Honey (1 teaspoon): Balances the acidity with a delicate touch of sweetness.
- Kosher salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and to bring out all the fresh flavors.
- Fresh mint (2 sprigs): Torn and tossed with the peas for a refreshing herbal note.
- Toasted crusty bread: The perfect vehicle for scooping up this dreamy Whipped Feta Dip.
How to Make Whipped Feta Dip
Step 1: Blanch the Sugar Snap Peas
Start by prepping the sugar snap peas for their refreshing crunch and vivid green color. Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a rolling boil and prepare an ice bath using a salad spinner for quick cooling. Once boiling, add another tablespoon of kosher salt for flavor, then drop in the peas. Blanch them for exactly one minute—this timing is crucial to maintain bright color and crisp texture. Immediately transfer the peas to the ice bath to halt cooking and chill them thoroughly. Drain and pat dry with a clean towel for the best texture.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing
While the peas cool, mix up a vibrant dressing that brings the whole dish to life. Combine the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, minced shallot, grated garlic, a pinch of salt, and freshly cracked black pepper in a bowl. Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Then, whisk in the olive oil, Dijon mustard, and honey to form a silky vinaigrette that perfectly balances acidity, sweetness, and a touch of tang.
Step 3: Prepare the Whipped Feta
Next, it’s time to create that buttery, luscious base for your dip. In a food processor, add the block of feta, cream cheese, one tablespoon of olive oil, and one tablespoon of lemon juice. Pulse a few times to break up the cheese into smaller pieces. Then, stream in warm water as you process for about a minute or two until the mixture is incredibly smooth and fluffy. Transfer this glorious whipped feta to a serving bowl, smoothing the surface with swoops of your spatula to create a beautiful canvas.
Step 4: Assemble the Whipped Feta Dip
Trim the ends off your blanched sugar snap peas, then slice each one lengthwise on the bias into thin, elegant slivers. Toss these tender-crisp peas with the torn mint leaves in the lemon shallot dressing. Pile the dressed peas generously on top of the whipped feta, letting the dressing drizzle over for added flavor and shine. Finish with a sprinkle of lemon zest, a pinch of flaky sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Serve immediately alongside toasted crusty bread to scoop up all of this dreamy goodness.
How to Serve Whipped Feta Dip
Garnishes
Garnishes not only add beauty but also introduce fresh bursts of flavor and texture. Along with the sugar snap peas and torn mint leaves, consider a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a few thin slices of radish for an extra peppery crunch. A few fresh herbs like dill or oregano also complement the creamy feta beautifully. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil over the top brings rich depth and enhances the gorgeous sheen of your Whipped Feta Dip.
Side Dishes
This Whipped Feta Dip shines as part of a wider spread and pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Think crisp vegetable crudités like cucumber ribbons, carrot sticks, and colorful bell pepper strips. Warm pita bread or flatbreads also make excellent sides for dipping. If you want to elevate your appetizer game, serve alongside a simple Greek salad or grilled vegetables drizzled with lemon and olive oil to echo the flavors in the dip.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation is everything when serving a dip as lovely as this. Instead of a regular bowl, try plating the whipped feta in a wide, shallow dish or a rustic ceramic platter. Create a small well or swirl in the center and spoon the peas on top artistically, allowing the colors to pop. For parties, serve in individual mini cups with a few peas on top, paired with a slice of toast on the side for an elegant, easy-to-eat finger food. Adding edible flowers or microgreens can turn your dip into a stunning centerpiece that everyone will admire.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Whipped Feta Dip can definitely be saved, but the fresh crunch of the snap peas is best enjoyed immediately. Store any leftover dip separately from the peas in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The whipped feta will keep well for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving to refresh the creamy texture.
Freezing
While the whipped feta portion can be frozen, it’s not recommended to freeze the sugar snap pea topping as it will lose its fresh, crisp texture upon thawing. To freeze the whipped feta, transfer it to a freezer-safe container and cover tightly. It will keep for up to 1 month in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and whisk gently to restore its smooth consistency.
Reheating
This dip is best served chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is usually unnecessary. However, if you prefer it slightly warmed, do so gently in the microwave in 15-second bursts or over a double boiler, stirring in between. Avoid overheating to prevent the cheese from breaking or becoming grainy.
FAQs
Can I use crumbled feta instead of block feta?
Block feta is preferred because it whips up more smoothly, creating that creamy texture essential for this dip. Crumbled feta may result in a grainier consistency, but if it’s all you have, blend it longer with a bit more cream cheese or water to help smooth it out.
What if I don’t have a food processor?
While a food processor makes the process much easier and quicker, you can use a sturdy blender or even a hand mixer with a bowl. Just be patient and scrape down the sides frequently to get a smooth, creamy dip.
Can I substitute sugar snap peas with another vegetable?
Absolutely! Fresh green beans, thinly sliced cucumbers, or blanched asparagus tips can be excellent alternatives, offering a similar refreshing crunch and color contrast to the creamy dip.
Is this Whipped Feta Dip suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for vegetarians as it contains no meat or animal-derived rennet cheese. Just be sure to check the feta packaging if you follow a strict vegetarian diet, as some cheeses may contain animal rennet.
How long does it take to prepare this Whipped Feta Dip?
From start to finish, this dip takes about 15 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal quick and elegant appetizer or snack when you’re short on time but want a big flavor impact.
Final Thoughts
This Whipped Feta Dip has quickly become one of my favorite go-to recipes whenever I want something fresh, creamy, and beautifully vibrant on the table. Its combination of whipped feta with lemony, garlicky sugar snap peas is absolutely addictive and perfect for practically any occasion. I’m so excited for you to try it and make it your own staple — once you taste it, you’ll understand why it’s such a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy every creamy, crunchy bite!
