Ingredients:

  • 8 oz (225 g) Feta Cheese (block, preferably Greek), drained well
  • 4 oz (115 g) Cream Cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) Extra Virgin Olive Oil (high quality), for blending
  • 1 Tbsp (15 ml) Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 medium Garlic Clove, peeled
  • 1/2 tsp Freshly ground Black Pepper
  • 2 large Red Bell Peppers (or 1 (12 oz/340 g) jar roasted peppers, drained)
  • 1 Tbsp Olive Oil (for roasting, if using fresh peppers)
  • 1 Tbsp Honey (or Agave), for drizzling garnish
  • 1 tsp chopped Fresh Parsley or Oregano, for garnish
  • Pinch of Smoked Paprika (optional)

Instructions:

  1. If roasting fresh peppers: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss red peppers with 1 Tbsp olive oil and a pinch of salt. Roast for 20 minutes until the skin is blistered and the flesh is tender. Cool, then peel and seed if desired (or simply drain jarred peppers).
  2. Combine the feta, softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and black pepper into the bowl of a food processor.
  3. Process the mixture: Pulse until the mixture begins to combine, then process continuously for 2–3 minutes, scraping down the sides often, until the dip is completely smooth, airy, and velvety.
  4. Transfer the whipped feta mixture to a serving bowl or airtight container. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the dip to firm slightly.
  5. Create the swirl component: Place the roasted/drained red peppers and the optional smoked paprika into a small blender or food processor. Blend until a thick, smooth puree is formed. Add a teaspoon of water or oil if the puree is too thick.
  6. Assemble the dip: Spread the chilled feta dip onto the serving platter, creating a slight well in the center. Spoon dollops of the red pepper puree over the top.
  7. Use a small knife or skewer to gently swirl the puree into the feta, creating an attractive marbling effect.
  8. Garnish and serve: Finish the dip with a generous drizzle of honey and a light sprinkling of fresh parsley or oregano. Serve immediately with pita chips or crudités.