Whipped Feta with Roasted Strawberries
Description:
A creamy, tangy whipped feta spread topped with sweet, caramelized roasted strawberries. This dish strikes a perfect balance between savory and sweet, making it ideal as an appetizer, snack, or part of a summer brunch spread.
Origin:
This recipe is a modern Mediterranean-inspired dish. It combines classic Greek feta cheese with the trendy culinary technique of whipping cheese into a smooth dip and topping it with roasted fruit—a popular twist in contemporary American and European cuisines.
Ingredients Quantity:
For the Whipped Feta:
200g (7 oz) feta cheese (preferably Greek, full-fat)
100g (3.5 oz) cream cheese (room temperature)
1 tbsp olive oil
1–2 tbsp Greek yogurt or sour cream (optional for creamier texture)
½ tsp lemon zest (optional)
For the Roasted Strawberries:
250g (1½ cups) fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
½ tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tsp olive oil
A pinch of sea salt
Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional for aroma)
Optional Ingredients:
Crushed pistachios or walnuts (for topping)
Fresh mint or basil (for garnish)
A drizzle of hot honey or chili oil (for heat)
Crackers, crostini, or flatbread for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Roast the Strawberries:
In a bowl, toss strawberries with honey, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and a pinch of salt.
Spread them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
Roast for 15–20 minutes or until soft and slightly caramelized.
Let them cool to room temperature.
- Make the Whipped Feta:
In a food processor, add feta cheese, cream cheese, olive oil, and Greek yogurt (if using).
Blend until smooth and creamy. Add lemon zest for brightness, if desired.
Taste and adjust with a little more yogurt or oil if needed for smoother consistency.
- Assemble:
Spread the whipped feta on a serving plate or bowl.
Top with roasted strawberries and any remaining juices.
Garnish with nuts, herbs, or hot honey if using.
- Serve immediately with crackers, pita chips, or toasted bread.
Tips for Success:
Use high-quality feta (block feta in brine, not pre-crumbled) for best flavor and texture.
Let your cheeses come to room temperature before whipping.
Roast the strawberries just until juicy and slightly caramelized—not mushy.
Don’t over-blend the feta—it should be smooth but not runny.
Recommendation:
Serve this as part of a mezze platter with olives, hummus, and flatbreads.
Pair with rosé wine or a sparkling lemonade for a refreshing combo.
Can also be used as a sandwich spread or a base for a summer salad.
Nutrition (approx. per serving – 1 of 6 servings):
Calories: 180 kcal
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Sugars: 5g
Protein: 6g
Sodium: 350mg
Fiber: 1g
Note: Nutritional values vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.
Let me know if you want this formatted for a printable recipe card or converted to a vegan version!