Description
Marinated Chickpeas with Whipped Feta
Ingredients
For the Marinated Chickpeas:
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Whipped Feta:
8 oz (225g) feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup (60ml) Greek yogurt
1 tbsp olive oil
Toppings:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Olive oil for drizzling
Extra smoked paprika for garnish
Directions
Prepare the marinated chickpeas: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, smoked paprika, cumin, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Add chickpeas and toss until well coated. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Make the whipped feta: Add crumbled feta, Greek yogurt, and olive oil to a food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust consistency with a drizzle of olive oil if needed.
Assemble the dish: Spread the whipped feta onto a serving bowl or plate. Spoon the marinated chickpeas over the whipped feta.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley and a pinch of smoked paprika on top. Drizzle with olive oil and serve with warm pita bread or crackers.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 230 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
1. Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly in a colander. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel to help the marinade adhere better.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of cumin, and the optional red pepper flakes. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
3. Add the dried chickpeas to the marinade and toss until every chickpea is evenly coated. Set aside to marinate for at least 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. While the chickpeas marinate, prepare the whipped feta. In a food processor, combine the crumbled feta, 1/4 cup of Greek yogurt, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
5. Process the mixture for 1-2 minutes, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed, until it is completely smooth and creamy. If it seems too thick, add an additional teaspoon of olive oil.
6. To assemble, spread the whipped feta in an even layer on a shallow serving plate or bowl using the back of a spoon.
7. Spoon the marinated chickpeas and any residual marinade over the center of the whipped feta.
8. Finish with chopped fresh parsley, a light dusting of smoked paprika, and a final drizzle of olive oil.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a stunning appetizer with warm pita bread, pita chips, or sliced baguette. For a light lunch, spoon it over a bed of crisp greens or alongside fresh vegetable crudités. It also makes an excellent topping for grilled chicken or fish, adding a creamy and tangy element.
How-to Summary
Create a spiced oil marinade for chickpeas and let them soak. Separately, blend feta cheese with Greek yogurt and olive oil until smooth. Spread the whipped feta on a plate, top with the marinated chickpeas, and garnish with herbs and spices for a quick, flavorful dip or spread.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes. The whipped feta can be made 1-2 days in advance and stored covered in the fridge. The chickpeas can be marinated up to 24 hours ahead for deeper flavor. Assemble just before serving.
What can I use instead of a food processor for the feta? You can use a high-powered blender. For a chunkier texture, mash the feta with a fork and vigorously whisk in the yogurt and oil.
Is there a dairy-free alternative to the whipped feta? For a vegan version, substitute the feta with a block of firm, pressed tofu and use a dairy-free yogurt, adding a splash of lemon juice and salt for tang.
My whipped feta is too salty. How can I fix it? The saltiness of feta varies by brand. To balance it, add more plain Greek yogurt or a squeeze of lemon juice to dilute the salt concentration.
How should I store leftovers? Store components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The whipped feta may firm up when cold; let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes and give it a quick stir before serving again.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using canned chickpeas without rinsing and drying them, as the leftover starchy liquid can make the marinade clumpy. Do not over-process the whipped feta, as it can become too warm and loose its structure. Ensure your feta is properly crumbled before blending to achieve a perfectly smooth consistency. Finally, do not skip the marinating time for the chickpeas, as this step is crucial for developing the flavor.
Conclusion
This Marinated Chickpeas with Whipped Feta recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into an elegant and crowd-pleasing dish. With its creamy, tangy base and boldly spiced chickpeas, it offers a satisfying contrast of textures and flavors that works for any occasion. Quick to prepare yet impressive in presentation, it’s a guaranteed addition to your repertoire of healthy, vegetarian-friendly recipes.