Description
Creamy Roasted Red Pepper & Feta Dip
Ingredients
2 large roasted red peppers (jarred or homemade)
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for garnish)
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)
2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt
Juice of half a lemon
Salt & pepper to taste
Directions
Blend It All: Add roasted red peppers, feta cheese, garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika, Greek yogurt, and lemon juice to a food processor. Blend until smooth.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste and season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes if desired. Blend again briefly.
Serve: Transfer to a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle extra chili flakes, and garnish with parsley or more feta crumbles.
Dip Away: Serve with fresh bread, carrot sticks, celery, or crackers!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes (if roasting peppers at home)
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~120 kcal per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare Your Ingredients: If using jarred peppers, drain them thoroughly. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which is key for a thick dip. Crumble your feta and mince the garlic.
2. Combine in Processor: Place the roasted red peppers, crumbled feta, minced garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika, Greek yogurt, and lemon juice into the bowl of your food processor. Secure the lid.
3. Initial Blend: Pulse the mixture 5-7 times to break down the larger pieces, then process continuously for 45-60 seconds. Stop and scrape down the sides with a spatula to ensure even blending.
4. Season and Finalize: Taste the dip. Now add salt (be cautious as feta is salty), black pepper, and optional chili flakes. Process for another 20-30 seconds until perfectly smooth and creamy.
5. Garnish and Rest: Transfer the dip to a serving bowl. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil and add your chosen garnishes. For best flavor, let it rest at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dip shines in many settings. For a classic appetizer, serve with warm pita bread, sturdy crackers, or a rainbow of fresh vegetable crudités like bell peppers and cucumber. It also excels as a flavorful spread on sandwiches, burgers, or grilled chicken wraps. For an elegant touch, use it as a condiment alongside grilled lamb or fish.
How-to Summary
This creamy dip comes together in minutes. Simply blend drained roasted red peppers with feta, garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika, Greek yogurt, and lemon juice until smooth. Season to taste, garnish, and serve with your favorite dippers for an instant crowd-pleaser.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dip ahead of time? Absolutely. Store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld and intensify, making it even better. Let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before serving.
What can I use instead of Greek yogurt? Sour cream or a dairy-free plain yogurt are excellent substitutes that will maintain the creamy texture and tang.
My dip turned out too runny. How can I fix it? Ensure your peppers are thoroughly drained and patted dry. To thicken an already-made dip, add more crumbled feta or a tablespoon of breadcrumbs and blend again.
Is there a way to make this dairy-free? Yes. Use a firm, brined dairy-free feta alternative and ensure your yogurt substitute is unsweetened and plain.
Can I roast the peppers myself? Definitely. Char whole peppers over a gas flame or under a broiler until blackened. Place in a sealed bowl to steam, then peel off the skin, remove seeds, and proceed with the recipe.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using wet ingredients without draining them, as this is the primary cause of a watery dip. Do not over-salt before tasting, since feta cheese is already quite salty. Skipping the “resting time” before serving means the flavors won’t have a chance to fully develop. Finally, using a blender instead of a food processor can sometimes over-process the dip into a thin liquid.
Conclusion
This Creamy Roasted Red Pepper & Feta Dip is a testament to how simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor. With its smoky, tangy, and creamy profile, it’s a guaranteed hit for any gathering or a perfect quick snack. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can easily master this recipe and adapt it to your taste. Now, blend, dip, and enjoy!