Whipped Feta and Yogurt Dip with Lemon-Herb Oil

A light and tangy Mediterranean-inspired dip, perfect as a starter or light meal served with warm pita bread and fresh vegetables. The combination of creamy whipped feta and tangy yogurt is elevated with a vibrant lemon-herb oil, creating a truly unforgettable flavour experience.

Ingredients

• Feta cheese 4 oz (about 115g), crumbled
• Greek yogurt ½ cup
• Garlic clove 1, minced
• Lemon 1, zested and juiced (half for the dip, half for the oil)
• Fresh parsley 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Fresh mint 1 tablespoon, chopped
• Dried oregano ½ teaspoon
• Olive oil ¼ cup, plus extra for drizzling
• Red pepper flakes ¼ teaspoon (or to taste)
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Pita bread 2, warmed
• Cucumber ½, sliced
• Cherry tomatoes ½ cup, halved
• Kalamata olives ¼ cup

Method

1. Whip the feta: In a food processor or using an electric mixer, combine the crumbled feta cheese, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, and half of the lemon zest and juice.
2. Blend until smooth: Process or beat the mixture until it is light and fluffy, scraping down the sides as needed. Taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
3. Make the herb oil: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, remaining lemon zest and juice, chopped parsley, chopped mint, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Assemble the dish: Spread the whipped feta and yogurt mixture onto a serving plate or bowl.
5. Drizzle the oil: Generously drizzle the lemon-herb oil over the dip.
6. Garnish and serve: Garnish with a few extra chopped herbs and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Serve immediately with warm pita bread, cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, and kalamata olives for dipping.

Chef's Note

For a richer flavour, use full-fat Greek yogurt. If you don't have fresh herbs on hand, you can substitute with dried herbs, using about half the amount specified. You can prepare the dip ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Be sure to bring it to room temperature before serving.