Description
Whipped Feta with Pomegranate, Pistachios & Honey is a quick and easy appetizer that boasts a creamy, smooth texture with a delightful combination of salty, sweet, and nutty flavors. The feta and cream cheese blend perfectly for a luxuriously whipped dip, topped with tart pomegranate seeds, crunchy pistachios, and a drizzle of warm honey to add a subtle spicy sweetness. Served with warm whole-wheat pita wedges, this dish is perfect for gatherings and entertaining.
Ingredients
Cheese Base
- 1 (6-oz.) package feta cheese in brine, drained and crumbled (1 1/2 cups)
- 1/4 cup reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1 large clove garlic
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 tablespoons cold water
Toppings
- 1/3 cup pomegranate seeds (arils)
- 1/4 cup lightly salted pistachios, chopped
- 1 tablespoon hot honey
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
To Serve
- 2 (6 1/2-inch) whole-wheat pita rounds, warmed and cut into 16 wedges
Instructions
- Process the Cheese: Add the crumbled feta, softened cream cheese, garlic clove, and extra-virgin olive oil to a food processor. Process until the mixture is mostly smooth, around 2 minutes, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides to ensure even blending and breaking down feta bits for a smooth texture.
- Whip the Dip: With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the cold water through the chute. Continue processing for an additional 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture develops a smooth, whipped consistency with ribbons forming, indicating the dip is well aerated and creamy.
- Assemble and Garnish: Transfer the whipped feta dip to a serving bowl. Sprinkle the pomegranate seeds and chopped pistachios evenly over the top. Drizzle with the hot honey to add a warm, spicy sweetness. Finish by sprinkling fresh thyme leaves for aromatic freshness.
- Serve: Pair the dip with warm whole-wheat pita wedges that have been cut into 16 pieces for easy dipping and sharing.
- Make Ahead Option: The whipped dip can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Before serving, allow it to come to room temperature and then whisk until smooth or pulse a few times in the food processor to restore its creamy texture. Proceed with garnishing and serving as directed.
Notes
- For a less spicy sweetness, substitute hot honey with regular honey or date syrup.
- Make sure to soften the cream cheese for easier processing and a smoother dip.
- Warm the pita wedges before serving to enhance their flavor and pliability for dipping.
- This dip keeps well for 2 days refrigerated, making it a convenient make-ahead appetizer.
- Scraping down the sides of the processor bowl several times during blending helps achieve the desired smooth texture.