Ingredients
Scale
- 1 (8 ounce) block Feta cheese, drained (preferably packed in brine)
- 1 whole head Garlic
- 1/4 cup extra virgin Olive oil (divided)
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt or cream cheese
- 1 teaspoon fresh Lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Oregano (for garnish, optional)
- Salt and freshly ground Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice off the top 1/4 inch of the garlic head to expose the cloves. Drizzle the exposed cloves with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil, wrap tightly in aluminum foil, and roast for 30–40 minutes until the cloves are completely soft and caramelized. Let cool slightly.
- Step 2: Once the garlic is cool enough to handle, squeeze the roasted cloves out of the skin and into the bowl of a food processor. Discard the papery skins.
- Step 3: Add the drained feta cheese, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil to the food processor with the roasted garlic. Process on high speed for 1-2 minutes, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides.
- Step 4: Continue processing until the mixture is completely smooth, airy, and whipped. Taste the dip and season with black pepper and salt, if necessary (feta is often salty enough).
- Step 5: Transfer the whipped feta to a shallow serving dish. Drizzle the top with a little extra olive oil and sprinkle with dried oregano before serving with pita bread or crudités.
Notes
- Keep leftover whipped feta tightly sealed in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, but remember to let it sit out for 10 to 15 minutes before serving to allow the olive oil and dairy to soften to a spreadable consistency.
- If the dip separates or feels too stiff after chilling, incorporate a teaspoon of fresh olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice and whisk vigorously until the smooth, whipped texture is restored; never attempt to microwave or heat this dip.
- For an impressive serving upgrade, spread the feta on toasted baguette slices and garnish with a drizzle of honey, crushed pistachios, or finely chopped fresh dill.
- For the best flavor foundation, always use high-quality feta packed in brine, and be sure to roast the garlic until it is deeply caramelized, as this sweetens the flavor and eliminates the raw sharpness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American