There is something wonderfully simple yet deeply satisfying about a creamy, tangy spread that bursts with fresh flavors, and that is exactly what the Whipped Feta with Fresh Herbs Recipe delivers. This delightful dish combines the salty tang of feta cheese with the lush vibrancy of fresh oregano, basil, and chives, whipped to silky perfection with cream cheese and brightened by lemon juice and zest. Whether you’re looking to elevate an appetizer tray or want a versatile dip that’s as stunning on a cracker as it is dolloped over grilled veggies, this recipe is a gem you’ll keep coming back to. It’s quick, elegant, and impressively flavorful, making it an instant favorite in my kitchen and hopefully yours too!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering fresh, simple ingredients is the secret to this recipe’s magic. Each plays a crucial role in balancing texture, flavor, and color, creating a spread that tastes luxurious without any fuss.
- 6 ounces feta (block, room temperature): Provides the tangy, crumbly base packed with savory notes.
- 2 ounces cream cheese (room temperature): Adds a smooth creaminess that whips beautifully with the feta.
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano (chopped): Offers a slightly peppery and aromatic flavor punch.
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil (chopped): Brings a sweet, peppery freshness that complements the other herbs.
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives (chopped): Gives a mild onion-like zest that brightens every bite.
- 1 clove garlic (minced): Adds a savory depth without overpowering the herbaceous notes.
- 1/4 cup olive oil + extra for drizzling: Creates a luscious, silky texture and adds richness while amplifying flavors.
- Juice + zest from 1/2 lemon: Lifts the whole spread with refreshing acidity and zing.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential to balance and enhance all the flavors just right.
How to Make Whipped Feta with Fresh Herbs Recipe
Step 1: Bring Cheeses to Room Temperature
Taking the feta and cream cheese out of the fridge about an hour before you start is a game changer. It softens the cheeses, which means your whipped feta will have an ultra-smooth, luscious texture that’s easier to blend and spread. Trust me, this simple step makes all the difference!
Step 2: Prepare Your Fresh Herbs
Chop your oregano, basil, and chives finely to release their fragrant oils and bright flavors. Fresh herbs are the heart of this recipe, and chopping them just right helps them disperse evenly, so every bite bursts with freshness.
Step 3: Combine the Cheeses
Place the crumbled feta and cream cheese into your food processor. Using a food processor really speeds up the whipping process and ensures a uniform creamy base. Pulse gently a few times until the cheeses meld together but still hold a bit of texture.
Step 4: Add Herbs, Garlic, and Seasonings
Next, toss in your chopped herbs, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend everything together until it forms a silky, whipped spread. The combination of herbs and citrus really brightens the creamy, savory cheese foundation, making this spread irresistible.
Step 5: Chill or Serve Immediately
You can enjoy this whipped feta straight away if you’re eager to dig in. However, letting it chill for an hour or two helps the flavors meld beautifully while intensifying the herbaceous notes. Just before serving, drizzle a little extra olive oil on top for that perfect glossy finish.
How to Serve Whipped Feta with Fresh Herbs Recipe
Garnishes
A few well-chosen garnishes elevate your whipped feta from delicious to dazzling. Try sprinkling chopped fresh herbs on top or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat. A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil adds shine and richness, and a few lemon zest curls can provide a bright accent that catches the eye and the palate.
Side Dishes
This whipped feta spread shines when paired with crunchy pita chips, warm toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable crudités like crisp cucumber and sweet cherry tomatoes. It’s also fantastic nestled alongside Mediterranean-inspired salads or grilled meats, adding a creamy contrast that complements smoky or fresh flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Feel like impressing your guests? Spoon the whipped feta into a shallow bowl and swirl the top with the back of a spoon to create inviting peaks and valleys. Arrange colorful veggie sticks around it, or spread it over crostini and top with a small piece of roasted red pepper or a drizzle of honey for a sweet-salty combo that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This whipped feta keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to develop overnight, making leftovers even more delicious. Just give it a gentle stir and a quick drizzle of olive oil before serving if it looks a little dry on top.
Freezing
While you can freeze whipped feta, the texture changes slightly after thawing and becomes less creamy. If you want to freeze, portion it into small containers and thaw overnight in the fridge; then stir thoroughly before serving to help re-emulsify the spread as much as possible.
Reheating
This recipe is best served chilled or at room temperature rather than warmed. If you want to take the chill off, just leave it out on the counter for about 20 minutes before serving. Heating it up risks breaking the creamy texture and separating the oils, so keep it cool for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use feta from a brine instead of block feta?
Yes, you can, but be sure to drain it very well and pat dry to avoid making the spread too watery. Block feta tends to have a firmer texture that’s ideal for whipping.
What if I don’t have a food processor?
You can use a sturdy bowl and a fork or a hand mixer to combine the cheeses, but it will take more effort to get a smooth texture. Chopping the cheeses finely will help, and mixing thoroughly with softened cream cheese can get you close.
Can I substitute other herbs for oregano, basil, or chives?
Absolutely! Fresh thyme, dill, or parsley all work wonderfully and will change the flavor profile subtly, so feel free to experiment based on what you have or your flavor preference.
Is this recipe suitable for a party dip?
Definitely! It’s creamy, flavorful, and easy to serve. Pair it with an assortment of crackers, breads, and veggies and watch it disappear quickly.
How can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, consider using a firm tofu or cashew-based cheese alternative along with vegan cream cheese, and blend with the same herbs and seasonings. The texture and flavor will differ, but it can be a tasty option!
Final Thoughts
Making this Whipped Feta with Fresh Herbs Recipe is like inviting a little Mediterranean sunshine onto your table. It’s effortless but packed with personality and bright, fresh flavor. Whether you’re whipping it up for a casual snack, a special celebration, or a quick lunch addition, it never disappoints. Give it a try and see how this simple recipe quickly becomes a cherished staple in your recipe collection!
Print
Whipped Feta with Fresh Herbs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Whipped Feta with Fresh Herbs is a creamy, tangy spread combining feta cheese and cream cheese blended with fresh oregano, basil, chives, garlic, and lemon. This quick and easy recipe is perfect as a flavorful appetizer or accompaniment, ideal for serving with bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
Cheese
- 6 ounces feta cheese (block, room temperature)
- 2 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
Herbs & Flavorings
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Liquids & Seasoning
- 1/4 cup olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- Juice and zest of 1/2 lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Cheeses: Take the feta and cream cheese out of the refrigerator about an hour prior to making this recipe to allow them to come to room temperature, which helps achieve a smooth blend.
- Chop Herbs: Finely chop the fresh oregano, basil, and chives so they will evenly distribute throughout the whipped cheese mixture.
- Process Cheeses: Crumble the feta into smaller pieces and add it along with the cream cheese into a food processor.
- Pulse Cheeses: Pulse the cheeses until they are partially combined and creamy but still have a bit of texture.
- Add Flavorings: Add the chopped herbs, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice and zest, and salt and pepper to the food processor. Blend everything together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Serve or Chill: Serve the whipped feta immediately with a generous drizzle of olive oil on top, or chill it for an hour or two before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
- Allowing the cheeses to come to room temperature is important for smoother blending.
- This dip is excellent served with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
- Fresh herbs can be substituted with your favorites or dried herbs, though fresh gives the best flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days.
