Ingredients
- Feta Cheese: 8 ounces (block, preferably Greek style, drained)
- Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese: 1/2 cup
- Garlic: 1 medium head
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 1/4 cup, plus 2 tablespoons for roasting and garnishing (divided)
- Fresh Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon
- Kosher Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice off the top 1/4 inch of the head of garlic to expose the cloves. Drizzle the exposed cloves with 1 teaspoon of olive oil, wrap tightly in aluminum foil, and roast for 30–40 minutes, or until the cloves are golden brown and soft. Allow to cool slightly.
- Step 2: While the garlic cools, combine the drained feta cheese and the ricotta cheese in the bowl of a food processor fitted with the steel blade. Process until the cheeses begin to break down, scraping down the sides as necessary.
- Step 3: Squeeze the soft roasted garlic cloves out of their skins and into the food processor. Add the lemon juice and the remaining 1/4 cup of olive oil. Process continuously for 2-3 minutes, stopping occasionally to scrape the sides, until the dip is completely smooth, creamy, and airy.
- Step 4: Season the dip with kosher salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding a few drops of water or milk if the dip is too thick, or a squeeze more lemon juice for brightness.
- Step 5: Transfer the whipped feta and ricotta dip to a serving bowl. Drizzle the top with the remaining fresh tablespoon of olive oil and serve immediately with pita chips, fresh vegetables, or crusty bread.
Notes
- Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; the robust roasted garlic flavor often improves by the next day.
- Avoid microwaving this delicate whipped dip; instead, pull it out of the refrigerator 30 minutes before serving to achieve the ideal creamy, spreadable texture.
- For an elegant main course pairing, try dolloping this savory dip over warm grilled chicken or broiled salmon fillets as a substitute for standard sauce.
- Don't skimp on processing time—whipping the mixture continuously for the full 2 to 3 minutes is key to fully incorporating the olive oil and achieving that light, airy emulsion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American