Creamy whipped feta blended with herbs, topped with luscious green olives and a generous drizzle of fragrant herb-infused olive oil — a luxurious, savory spread perfect for dipping, spreading, or elevating any appetizer platter.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Whipped Feta with Olives and Herb Oil is a simple yet sophisticated appetizer that bursts with Mediterranean flavors. The creamy, tangy feta base pairs beautifully with the briny olives and aromatic herb oil, creating a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of dippers. It is quick to prepare, visually stunning, and an excellent choice for entertaining or upgrading a casual meal.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
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8 oz feta cheese, crumbled
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3 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
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2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for topping)
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1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 cup green olives
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Fresh sage or basil leaves
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1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (for herb oil)
Directions
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In a food processor, blend the feta cheese, cream cheese, 2 tablespoons olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
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Spoon the whipped feta into a shallow bowl and create decorative swirls with the back of a spoon.
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Warm 1/4 cup of olive oil in a pan and lightly fry the sage or basil leaves until crisp but still green.
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Pour the herb-infused oil over the whipped feta.
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Top with green olives and crispy herb leaves.
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Serve with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves approximately 4 to 6 people. Preparation time is around 10 minutes, with an additional 5 minutes for preparing the herb oil, resulting in a total time of about 15 minutes.
Variations
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Substitute the green olives with kalamata or mixed olives for a deeper, brinier flavor.
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Add a touch of honey to the whipped feta for a sweet and savory contrast.
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Stir a little crushed red pepper into the herb oil for a spicy kick.
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Use rosemary or thyme instead of sage or basil for the herb-infused oil.
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Blend roasted red peppers into the whipped feta for an additional layer of flavor and color.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover whipped feta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving again. It is best served cold or at room temperature; reheating is not necessary or recommended.
FAQs
Can I make whipped feta ahead of time?
Yes, whipped feta can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
What type of feta cheese works best?
Use a high-quality block of feta cheese packed in brine for the best flavor and texture.
Can I use a different cheese if I do not have feta?
Ricotta or goat cheese can be used, but the flavor and texture will differ significantly.
How do I prevent the herb leaves from burning?
Fry the herbs over low heat and remove them as soon as they become crisp but before they brown.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh for the oil?
Fresh herbs are best for flavor and appearance, but a small amount of dried herbs can be used if necessary.
What breads or crackers pair well with whipped feta?
Serve with crusty baguette slices, pita chips, seeded crackers, or even fresh vegetable sticks.
Is it possible to make a dairy-free version?
You can use a plant-based feta alternative and a dairy-free cream cheese to create a vegan version.
Can I add other toppings to the whipped feta?
Yes, toppings like sun-dried tomatoes, roasted pine nuts, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze are excellent additions.
How long does the herb oil keep?
The herb oil should be used within a day or two for the freshest flavor, as fried herbs do not store well.
What other ways can I use whipped feta?
Spread it on sandwiches, serve it as a dip for grilled meats, or use it as a topping for roasted vegetables.
Conclusion
Whipped Feta with Olives and Herb Oil is a stunning, flavorful spread that can elevate any meal or gathering. With its creamy texture, bright herbal notes, and salty olive topping, it delivers a complex and satisfying taste experience with minimal effort. Perfect for sharing, it is a dish that will quickly become a favorite at your table.
Print
Whipped Feta with Olives and Herb Oil
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6–8
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Blending, Infusing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Whipped Feta with Olives and Herb Oil is a creamy, luxurious spread featuring smooth whipped feta blended with herbs, topped with briny green olives and a fragrant herb-infused olive oil drizzle. Perfect for dipping, spreading, or elevating any appetizer board, it’s a crowd-pleasing, savory sensation!
Ingredients
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8 oz feta cheese, crumbled
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3 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
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2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for topping)
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1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 cup green olives
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Fresh sage or basil leaves
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1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (for herb oil)
Instructions
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In a food processor, blend feta cheese, cream cheese, 2 tablespoons olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
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Spoon the whipped feta into a shallow serving bowl and create swirls with the back of a spoon.
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Warm 1/4 cup olive oil in a small pan and lightly fry sage or basil leaves until crisp but still green.
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Pour the herb-infused oil over the whipped feta.
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Top with green olives and crispy herb leaves.
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Serve with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
Notes
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For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the feta blend.
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You can swap green olives for Kalamata olives for a more intense flavor.
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Use high-quality feta and extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.
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Make the whipped feta a few hours ahead to allow the flavors to meld.
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