Description
Whipped Feta with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes & Chickpeas
Ingredients
8 oz feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
2 tbsp olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
1 pint cherry tomatoes
1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh oregano or thyme for garnish
Pita bread or crackers for serving
Directions
Roast Toppings: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place cherry tomatoes and chickpeas on a baking sheet. Toss with olive oil, garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes until the tomatoes are blistered.
Whip Feta: In a food processor, combine feta, cream cheese, and 2 tbsp olive oil. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Assemble: Spread the whipped feta into a serving bowl. Top with the roasted cherry tomatoes and chickpeas.
Finish: Drizzle with more olive oil, garnish with fresh oregano or thyme, and sprinkle with a little more smoked paprika if desired.
Serve: Pair with warm pita bread, crackers, or veggie sticks for dipping.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 230 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a hot environment for roasting. 2. On a rimmed baking sheet, combine the cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, minced garlic, dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and toss thoroughly to coat. 3. Roast the mixture for 20-25 minutes, or until the tomatoes are blistered and juicy. 4. While the vegetables roast, prepare the whipped feta. In a food processor, combine the crumbled feta, softened cream cheese, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. 5. Process the mixture for 1-2 minutes, stopping to scrape down the sides, until it is completely smooth and creamy. 6. Spread the whipped feta into a shallow serving bowl or plate, creating a well in the center. 7. Once the tomato-chickpea mix is done, spoon it directly over the whipped feta while still warm. 8. Finish with a final drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, and an extra pinch of smoked paprika for color.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dip is perfect for any occasion. Serve it as a stunning centerpiece appetizer with warm pita bread, toasted baguette slices, or sturdy crackers. For a lighter option, offer an array of fresh vegetable crudités like cucumber spears, bell pepper strips, and carrot sticks. It also makes an excellent brunch item, served alongside eggs, or as a flavorful spread for sandwiches and wraps.
How-to Summary
This dish comes together in three simple stages: roast, whip, and assemble. First, roast cherry tomatoes and chickpeas with garlic and spices until caramelized. Second, blend feta with cream cheese and olive oil until luxuriously smooth. Finally, spread the whipped feta on a plate, top with the warm roasted mixture, and garnish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make whipped feta ahead of time? Yes, the whipped feta base can be made 1-2 days in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before assembling.
What can I use instead of cream cheese? For a tangier flavor, Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese are excellent substitutes for cream cheese.
My whipped feta is too thick. How can I thin it? Add an additional tablespoon of olive oil or a splash of milk or cream while processing until your desired consistency is reached.
Can I use different vegetables? Absolutely. Roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or even roasted eggplant would be delicious alternatives or additions.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the feta? You can try using a firm, brine-packed vegan feta alternative. The texture when whipped may vary, so adjust with olive oil as needed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using cold cream cheese straight from the fridge, as it will not blend smoothly. Ensure it is softened to room temperature. Do not overcrowd the baking sheet when roasting; use a large enough pan so the tomatoes and chickpeas caramelize instead of steaming. Finally, do not over-process the feta mixture, as it can become too warm and slightly greasy. Blend just until smooth.
Conclusion
Whipped Feta with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes and Chickpeas is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that masterfully combines creamy, tangy, and savory-sweet flavors. Its elegant presentation belies its simple preparation, making it perfect for both casual gatherings and special occasions. By following this guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a memorable and delicious dish that highlights the best of Mediterranean-inspired ingredients.