Are you ready to elevate your appetizer game with a burst of Mediterranean flavor? This Preserved Lemon and Mint Whipped Feta Dip is the perfect blend of creamy, zesty, and refreshing, making it an irresistible addition to any gathering. In just 5 minutes, you can whip up this delightful dip that will have your guests asking for the recipe! With the tangy notes of preserved lemons and the aromatic freshness of mint, this dip is not only easy to make but also a showstopper that pairs beautifully with pita chips, veggies, or crusty bread. Dive into this recipe and discover how to create a dip that will tantalize your taste buds!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 5 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 1.5 cups
Ingredients
- Feta cheese
- Preserved lemons, chopped
- Fresh mint, chopped
- Olive oil
- Pepper
Instructions
- Remove feta cheese from refrigerator and allow it to soften at room temperature for approximately 15-20 minutes to ensure smooth blending.
- Place softened feta cheese into a food processor or high-powered blender, ensuring the equipment is clean and dry.
- Rinse preserved lemons thoroughly under cool water to remove excess salt, then finely chop into small, uniform pieces.
- Carefully wash fresh mint leaves and pat dry with paper towels, then chop into fine, delicate pieces.
- Add chopped preserved lemons and mint to the feta cheese in the food processor.
- Drizzle high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the ingredients to help create a smoother consistency.
- Pulse or blend the mixture on medium speed, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides of the container, until the mixture becomes creamy and well-combined.
- Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting according to personal preference.
- Transfer the whipped feta dip to a serving bowl, using a spatula to ensure all mixture is extracted.
- Optional: Garnish with additional fresh mint leaves and a light drizzle of olive oil before serving.
- Serve immediately at room temperature with pita chips, fresh vegetables, or crusty bread.
Tips
- Soften the Feta: For the best texture, remember to let the feta cheese sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before blending. This will ensure a smoother consistency in your dip.
- Rinse the Lemons: Preserved lemons can be quite salty, so rinse them thoroughly under cool water to remove excess salt before chopping. This will help balance the flavors in your dip.
- Chop Ingredients Finely: Take your time to chop the preserved lemons and fresh mint into small, uniform pieces. This will help them blend more seamlessly into the feta, enhancing the overall texture.
- Use High-Quality Olive Oil: A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil not only adds flavor but also helps achieve a creamy consistency. Opt for a high-quality oil for the best results.
- Blend to Perfection: When blending, pulse the mixture on medium speed and stop occasionally to scrape down the sides. This will ensure that all ingredients are well combined and creamy.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your dip before serving and adjust the seasoning with freshly ground black pepper to suit your preference. A little extra pepper can add a nice kick!
- Garnish for Presentation: For an extra touch, garnish your dip with additional fresh mint leaves and a light drizzle of olive oil before serving. It not only looks appealing but also enhances the flavors.
- Serve at Room Temperature: This dip is best enjoyed at room temperature, so serve it immediately after preparation to ensure maximum flavor and creaminess.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 140kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg
