Whipped Feta Dip with Roasted Strawberries is a show-stopping appetizer that brings together creamy, salty feta and tangy-sweet roasted strawberries for an irresistible flavor combo. This dish is as stunning to look at as it is delicious to eat—vividly hued berries atop a cloud of whipped cheese make any table feel festive. Whether you’re planning a picnic, looking to brighten up your next brunch spread, or searching for a unique make-ahead party dip, this Mediterranean-inspired favorite has you covered with bold taste and effortless style.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredient list for Whipped Feta Dip with Roasted Strawberries is delightfully simple, but every item plays a starring role. Quality ingredients yield the best results here, so choose the freshest produce and the best block of feta you can find—the flavors will sing with very little effort!
- Feta cheese (8 ounces, block-style—not crumbled): The creamy, tangy foundation for the whipped dip; blocks are richer and blend smoother.
- Plain Greek yogurt (1/3 cup): Adds body, lightness, and a subtle tang that balances the saltiness of the feta.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Smooths out the texture and gives the dip luxurious richness.
- Honey (1 tablespoon for dip, 1 tablespoon for strawberries): Lends just enough sweetness to complement the salty feta and roasted berries.
- Lemon zest (1/2 teaspoon): Brightens up the dip with citrusy fragrance and flavor.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Adds zing and enhances the dip’s overall freshness.
- Fresh strawberries (1 cup, hulled and halved): Sweet, juicy berries roast into jammy perfection for the topping.
- Balsamic vinegar (1 tablespoon): Deepens the strawberries’ flavor and creates a luscious syrup.
- Pinch of salt: Balances flavors in the roasted strawberries and the dip itself.
- Optional toppings: Chopped fresh basil or mint, cracked black pepper: Adds a final flourish of freshness and a subtle herbal note.
How to Make Whipped Feta Dip with Roasted Strawberries
Step 1: Roast the Strawberries
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a small baking dish or sheet pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup. In a bowl, gently toss the hulled and halved strawberries with balsamic vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt. Spread them out in a single layer so the juices can concentrate and caramelize in the oven. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes until the berries are softened, syrupy, and intensely fragrant—this is where the magic happens!
Step 2: Let the Strawberries Cool
Once the strawberries are roasted and bubbling, pull them from the oven and set them aside to cool slightly. While they rest, their syrup will thicken up just a touch, making it perfect for drizzling over your dip later on.
Step 3: Whip the Feta Mixture
While the strawberries cool, grab your food processor or blender. Add the feta cheese (crumble it in by hand for easier blending), Greek yogurt, olive oil, honey, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Blend until the mixture is silky-smooth, pausing to scrape down the sides as necessary. You want the dip to be light, fluffy, and ready to scoop!
Step 4: Assemble the Dip
Spoon the luscious whipped feta into your favorite serving bowl, using the back of the spoon to create deep swirls and inviting valleys. This not only looks gorgeous but also catches all that strawberry syrup!
Step 5: Top with Roasted Strawberries
Gently spoon the roasted strawberries and every drop of their jewel-toned syrup over the whipped feta dip. The contrast of crimson berries against snowy-white feta is a visual—and edible—delight.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish with a sprinkle of chopped basil or mint for a pop of fresh color and flavor, plus a few cracks of black pepper if you like a hint of spice. Serve immediately with toasted baguette, crackers, or crunchy veggies, and watch it disappear!
How to Serve Whipped Feta Dip with Roasted Strawberries
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or mint over the finished Whipped Feta Dip with Roasted Strawberries takes this dish from lovely to unforgettable. The bright green complements the red strawberries and enhances every bite with an aromatic lift. If you enjoy a little extra zing, cracked black pepper adds subtle heat that ties the sweet and savory notes together beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dip pairs wonderfully with a crisp assortment of dippers. Slices of toasted baguette, sturdy crackers, seeded flatbreads, or even crunchy cucumber rounds make perfect vessels for scooping up every smear of feta and syrupy berry. For a more elaborate spread, round things out with fresh veggies, olives, or a Mediterranean mezze board.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Try spooning individual servings of Whipped Feta Dip with Roasted Strawberries into small jars or glasses for a chic appetizer course. For garden parties, use endive leaves as natural “boats” for the dip and berries. Or, serve in a rustic shallow bowl and let everyone gather around to dip and chat—there’s no wrong way to enjoy it!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any of this glorious dip left after your gathering, pack it into an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. The whipped feta will stay fresh and flavorful for up to three days; just remember to reserve the roasted strawberries separately and spoon them on just before serving to keep everything bright and appetizing.
Freezing
While the whipped feta portion of the dip can theoretically be frozen, the texture may become a bit grainy after thawing. Freezing the roasted strawberries is not recommended, as their juicy, syrupy quality is best enjoyed fresh. If you must freeze, do so with only the whipped feta, then whip it again after thawing, adding a tad more yogurt or olive oil as needed.
Reheating
Whipped Feta Dip with Roasted Strawberries is typically served chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer it less cold, simply let the whipped feta sit out for about 15 minutes before assembling with the berries. For the strawberries, you can nudge them just above room temperature with a very brief zap in the microwave or a few moments on the stovetop; just be sure not to overheat, as you want the berries juicy, not jammy.
FAQs
Can I use pre-crumbled feta or does it need to be block-style?
Block-style feta is highly recommended for this recipe because it blends more smoothly and gives the dip its signature creamy texture. Pre-crumbled feta often contains anti-caking agents that can make the dip grainy, so stick with the block if possible for the most luxurious results.
Is there a vegan option for Whipped Feta Dip with Roasted Strawberries?
Absolutely! Swap in your favorite plant-based feta alternative and use coconut or almond yogurt in place of Greek yogurt. The flavor will be a little different but still delicious, especially with the sweet-tart roasted strawberries on top.
Can I use frozen strawberries if fresh ones aren’t available?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries in a pinch. There may be a little extra liquid as they roast, so consider draining them slightly before topping the dip, and roast for a bit longer to help concentrate their flavor and syrup.
How far ahead can I make this dip?
You can whip the feta mixture up to two days ahead, storing it tightly covered in the fridge. For the best results, roast the strawberries the same day you plan to serve and spoon them on just before presenting for optimal color and freshness.
What else can I use the whipped feta for?
Aside from making the most of Whipped Feta Dip with Roasted Strawberries, the dip base is surprisingly versatile! Spread it on sandwiches, tuck it into wraps, dollop it atop grilled veggies, or use it as a bed for roasted beets or tomatoes all summer long.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a simple yet unforgettable appetizer, Whipped Feta Dip with Roasted Strawberries is the answer. Each bite is a harmony of creamy, salty, sweet, and tangy—truly something special for gatherings big or small. Give it a try, and you’ll find yourself coming back to this crowd-pleaser again and again!
Print
Whipped Feta Dip with Roasted Strawberries Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
Indulge in the creamy decadence of whipped feta dip paired with the sweet tang of roasted strawberries. This elegant yet simple appetizer is perfect for any gathering, from casual picnics to upscale dinner parties.
Ingredients
For the Whipped Feta Dip:
- 8 ounces feta cheese (block-style, not crumbled)
- 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Roasted Strawberries:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries (hulled and halved)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Pinch of salt
Optional toppings: chopped fresh basil or mint, cracked black pepper.
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a small baking dish with parchment paper.
- Roast the Strawberries: Toss strawberries with balsamic vinegar, honey, and salt. Roast for 20–25 minutes until soft.
- Prepare the Dip: Blend feta, Greek yogurt, olive oil, honey, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Assemble: Transfer the whipped feta to a bowl, top with roasted strawberries, basil or mint, and cracked black pepper.
- Serve: Enjoy with baguette slices, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
Notes
- This dip can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. Add the strawberries just before serving.
- Great as a spring appetizer or summer snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Blending, Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
