Description
A creamy and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dip made with whipped feta, ricotta (or cream cheese), roasted garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs. This dip is perfect for spreading on toasted bread, serving with vegetables, or pairing with a mezze platter.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large lemon, cut into chunks (rind included)
- ½ cup olive oil, divided, plus extra for drizzling
- 5 large garlic cloves
- 8 oz. block feta cheese
- 8 oz. block cream cheese (or ricotta)
- ¼ cup honey, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 tsp. red pepper flakes, plus more for garnish
- 1 tsp. fresh thyme, plus more for garnish
- 1 tsp. fresh oregano, plus more for garnish
- Optional garnish: sliced lemon, Kalamata olives
- Serve with: toasted baguette, pita bread, cucumber, or carrots
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roast the lemon and garlic: Place lemon chunks on the baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. In a small ramekin, cover garlic cloves with ¼ cup of olive oil. Place on the same baking sheet and roast for 15 minutes.
- Blend the dip: In a food processor, combine feta, cream cheese, the remaining ¼ cup olive oil, honey, red pepper flakes, thyme, oregano, and the roasted lemon (including the rind). Add the roasted garlic and its olive oil. Pulse until smooth, then blend until fully combined.
- Garnish & serve: Transfer to a serving dish and top with Kalamata olives, honey, thyme, red pepper flakes, and sliced lemon. Serve with toasted baguette, pita bread, cucumber, or carrots.
Notes
- Lemon: Choose a thin-rind lemon for less bitterness.
- Olive Oil: Use extra-virgin for better flavor.
- Serving Suggestion: Let the dip sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for the best texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Blending & Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tbsp
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg