Hello, friend! Clara here, from Cooking Inspired. Remember those days when you craved a snack that felt both indulgent and nourishing? I do, too. I’m so excited to share my simple, flavorful Whipped Feta with Roasted Beets recipe with you, designed especially for busy families like ours. This beautiful dip comes together in about an hour, including roasting time, and will become a repeat recipe!
Vibrant Whipped Feta with Roasted Beets Dip
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and wash and scrub the beets. Cut the stems off beets but leave a little stem attached, otherwise it will leak out too much juice, and leave the tails attached as well. Rub them with the olive oil, then put them in an oven safe pot with a lid (like a Dutch oven), or a baking pan and then cover it with tin foil.
- Place in the oven and bake until tender when poked with a fork, (about 45 to 60 minutes depending on the size of the beets—larger beets will take longer to cook through). Remove from the oven and allow to cool to warm. While warm, hold a beet under cold running water and the skin should peel off easily with your fingers. Peel all the beets.
- Cut the beets into sixths and place them in a food processor with the feta, yogurt, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Begin blending and add the olive oil while the food processor is on. Blend until a relatively smooth mixture forms (it will have a tiny bit of visual texture to it because of the beets, but still has a nice creamy mouth feel). Taste and add salt if needed (feta is typically a very salty cheese, but each brand is different, so you may want to add more depending on your preference).
- You can use it on sandwiches, flatbreads, wraps, bowls, and just on good ol’ bread or crackers. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy within 10 days. It also freezes well!
Notes
Table of contents
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Whipped Feta with Roasted Beets
This isn’t just another dip recipe; it’s a flavor adventure that’s also incredibly easy. Here’s why I think you’ll adore it:
- Earthy sweetness meets tangy creaminess.
- Ready in about an hour.
- Perfect on everything from crackers to sandwiches.
- A vibrant, colorful addition to any table.
What Does Whipped Feta Taste Like? (And Why Beets Work!)
Have you ever wondered what whipped feta tastes like? It’s a delightful experience, a dance of flavors and textures. Imagine the salty, tangy kick of feta cheese transformed into a creamy cloud. Then, the earthy sweetness of roasted beets joins the party, creating a harmonious balance that’s both comforting and exciting. This combination is not only delicious but also visually stunning, adding a pop of color to your table.
Ingredients for Whipped Feta with Roasted Beets
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious dip. I always try to use ingredients that are easy to find and won’t break the bank.
- 12 oz beets
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 11 ounces Greek feta
- 1/4 cup full fat plain yogurt
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (can swap with 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper if you like it spicy)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
Ingredient Spotlight: Choosing the Best Feta and Beets
Let’s talk about choosing the best ingredients. For the feta, I always look for Greek feta in brine, which is creamier and more flavorful than other types. The brine keeps it moist and adds to that signature tangy taste. As for the beets, smaller beets tend to be sweeter and more tender, making them perfect for this recipe.
Equipment You’ll Need
To make this recipe, you’ll need a few essential tools. A food processor or high-powered blender is key for achieving that perfectly smooth, whipped texture. You’ll also need a Dutch oven or baking pan to roast the beets to tender perfection.
How to Make Whipped Feta with Roasted Beets: Step-by-Step
Here’s how to bring this amazing Whipped Feta with Roasted Beets recipe to life. I promise, it’s easier than it looks!
- Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and wash and scrub the beets. Cut the stems off beets but leave a little stem attached, otherwise it will leak out too much juice, and leave the tails attached as well. Rub them with the olive oil, then put them in an oven safe pot with a lid (like a Dutch oven), or a baking pan and then cover it with tin foil.
- Place in the oven and bake until tender when poked with a fork, (about 45 to 60 minutes depending on the size of the beets—larger beets will take longer to cook through). Remove from the oven and allow to cool to warm. While warm, hold a beet under cold running water and the skin should peel off easily with your fingers. Peel all the beets.
- Cut the beets into sixths and place them in a food processor with the feta, yogurt, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Begin blending and add the olive oil while the food processor is on. Blend until a relatively smooth mixture forms (it will have a tiny bit of visual texture to it because of the beets, but still has a nice creamy mouth feel). Taste and add salt if needed (feta is typically a very salty cheese, but each brand is different, so you may want to add more depending on your preference).
- You can use it on sandwiches, flatbreads, wraps, or bowls, and just on good ol’ bread or crackers. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy within 10 days. It also freezes well!
Clara’s Pro Tips for Perfect Whipped Feta
Here are a few of my favorite tips to make sure your whipped feta turns out perfectly every time!
- Roast extra beets. That way you’ll have some ready for other meals!
- Don’t over-process the feta; a little texture is nice.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes to your spice preference.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the simplest recipes can have a few pitfalls. Keep an eye out for these common mistakes! Over-baking the beets can make them mushy, so check them regularly with a fork. Using low-quality feta won’t whip as well, so invest in the good stuff. Finally, remember that feta is already salty, so add salt sparingly.
Serving Suggestions: Beyond Crackers!
While this whipped feta is amazing with crackers, don’t stop there! Try it on sandwiches, flatbreads, wraps, or bowls. It’s also delicious as a topping for grilled chicken or fish, adding a burst of flavor and color to your favorite dishes.
Recipe Variations
Want to mix things up? Here are a few variations to try!
| Variation | Description |
|---|---|
| Vegan | Substitute the feta with a plant-based feta alternative. |
| Sweet & Spicy | Drizzle 1 tablespoon of honey over the whipped feta after blending. |
| Lemon Zest | Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest for a brighter flavor. |
Ingredient Substitutions
Sometimes, you might not have all the ingredients on hand. Here are a few substitutions that work well!
| Ingredient | Substitution | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Greek Feta | Other Feta (French, Bulgarian) | Flavor will vary slightly. |
| Red Pepper Flakes | Cayenne Pepper (1/4 tsp) or smoked paprika (1/2 tsp) | Adjust amount to taste. |
| Plain Yogurt | Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream | Will affect the tanginess and thickness slightly. |
Make-Ahead Instructions
Yes, you can absolutely make this whipped feta ahead of time! Prepare it up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This makes it perfect for parties or meal prepping.
How Long Does Whipped Feta Last? (Storage Instructions)
Whipped feta will last in the refrigerator for up to 10 days if stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using.
Is Feta Cheese Healthy?
Feta cheese offers nutritional benefits like calcium and protein. However, it’s also high in sodium and saturated fat, so enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a blender instead of a food processor?
Yes, a high-powered blender will work, but be careful not to over-process it.
Is Feta Cheese Healthy?
Feta cheese offers nutritional benefits like calcium and protein. However, it’s also high in sodium and saturated fat, so enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How Long Does Whipped Feta Last? (Storage Instructions)
Whipped feta will last in the refrigerator for up to 10 days if stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using.
Conclusion
I hope you’re as excited about this Whipped Feta with Roasted Beets recipe as I am. It’s a simple, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to give it a try. If you do, please leave a comment below, ask a question, or share your results. Happy cooking!
