If there’s one dip that’s guaranteed to dazzle a crowd or elevate your solo snack game, it’s this Whipped Feta Spread with Lemon, Garlic and Rosemary. Packed with fresh, zesty flavors and impossibly creamy with just a hint of garlic and herbs, you’ll want to slather it on everything from crisp pita chips to crunchy veggies.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistibly Creamy: The combination of feta and cream cheese creates a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Bright, Lively Flavors: A burst of lemon and fresh rosemary keeps every bite vibrant, fresh, and anything but boring.
- Comes Together in Minutes: This dip is ready in just five minutes—perfect for busy weeknights and entertaining on the fly.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether you’re planning a festive party spread or a simple afternoon snack, this recipe works for just about everything.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The charm of Whipped Feta Spread with Lemon, Garlic and Rosemary is how it transforms humble, everyday ingredients into a showstopping spread. Every component plays a role—whether it’s bringing bold flavor, silky texture, or eye-catching color.
- Feta crumbles: The star of the show, feta brings creamy tang and signature saltiness. Opt for high-quality feta for the best flavor.
- Cream cheese (softened): This makes the spread ultra-smooth and helps mellow the feta’s sharpness.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps everything blend into a luscious, spreadable dip.
- Fresh lemon juice: The bright, citrusy hit lifts the whole dish and keeps it tasting light.
- Garlic clove (finely grated): Just the right amount for flavor without overwhelming the feta.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing and dialing in the flavor, to taste.
- Lemon zest and fresh rosemary (for garnish): These finish the dish with a pop of color and fresh herbal aroma.
- Pita chips or veggies (for serving): The perfect vehicle for scooping up your whipped feta creation!
Variations
One of my favorite things about Whipped Feta Spread with Lemon, Garlic and Rosemary is how easily it adapts to different moods, menus, and cravings. Go ahead—make it your own using whatever’s in your pantry or garden!
- Try Different Herbs: Swap rosemary for dill, thyme, or basil for a new twist on the herbal flavor profile.
- Add Heat: Mix in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a little harissa to give your spread a subtle kick.
- Go Dairy-Free: Use a vegan feta and cream cheese alternative—delicious and friendly for all your guests.
- Boost Texture: Stir in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes or toasted pine nuts for a Mediterranean crunch.
How to Make Whipped Feta Spread with Lemon, Garlic and Rosemary
Step 1: Gather and Prep Your Ingredients
Before you start, make sure to set out the cream cheese so it’s nice and soft—this really helps with blending. Measure out all the ingredients so you can breeze through the recipe without a hitch. Having your lemon zested and rosemary ready for garnish will make the last step a joy!
Step 2: Whip Everything Until Dreamy
In the bowl of your electric mixer, add the feta crumbles, softened cream cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, finely grated garlic, salt, and pepper. Whip the mixture on medium-high until it’s smooth and fluffy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed to make sure everything mixes evenly. The spread should look creamy and luscious—totally irresistible!
Step 3: Garnish and Serve
Spoon the whipped feta into a shallow serving bowl. For that visual and aromatic wow factor, scatter lemon zest and plenty of chopped fresh rosemary right over the top. Set it out with a platter of pita chips or crisp veggies, and watch the magic happen.
Pro Tips for Making Whipped Feta Spread with Lemon, Garlic and Rosemary
- Choose Block Feta for Best Texture: If possible, use block feta rather than pre-crumbled for a richer, creamier finish—the texture is worth the tiny extra step!
- Softening the Cream Cheese Matters: Letting your cream cheese come to room temperature ensures a smooth, lump-free spread without overwhipping.
- Don’t Skip the Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of zest just before serving adds brightness and visual appeal that takes this dip over the top.
- Fresh Garlic—Use with Care: A little fresh garlic goes a long way; always grate it fine and taste the spread before adding more.
How to Serve Whipped Feta Spread with Lemon, Garlic and Rosemary
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of a beautiful garnish! For this Whipped Feta Spread with Lemon, Garlic and Rosemary, I love a lavish topping of lemon zest, freshly chopped rosemary, and—if you’re feeling extra—an extra drizzle of good olive oil or a scattering of toasted pine nuts. These finishing touches make each scoop look swoon-worthy and taste instantly more special.
Side Dishes
This bright, zesty spread is right at home alongside a classic mezze platter—think hummus, olives, crisp cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, and of course, warm pita or pita chips. It also plays beautifully as a vibrant topper for grain bowls, grilled vegetables, or even roasted potatoes for an unforgettable side dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, try swirling the whipped feta onto a large platter and creating a “well” in the center to fill with olive oil, dukkah, or even spiced honey. Arrange rainbow-colored veggies and artisan breads around the edge for a dramatic, photo-ready centerpiece. Or, for individual servings, spoon the spread into small jars or glasses—adorable and no double-dipping!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Whipped Feta Spread with Lemon, Garlic and Rosemary stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just smooth the top, pop on a lid, and you’ll have an instant savory snack or sandwich spread ready whenever cravings strike.
Freezing
While technically you can freeze this spread, I find that the texture isn’t quite as silky after thawing. If you must freeze, be sure to stir it well once defrosted. For best results and taste, enjoy your Whipped Feta Spread with Lemon, Garlic and Rosemary fresh or from the fridge within a few days.
Reheating
This spread is best served chilled or at cool room temperature. To revive leftovers, let them come to room temp for about 20–30 minutes and give a quick stir before serving. If you need to slightly soften it, a 10-second zap in the microwave (in a microwave-safe bowl) does the trick—but don’t overheat, or the oils may separate.
FAQs
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Can I make Whipped Feta Spread with Lemon, Garlic and Rosemary in advance?
Absolutely! This spread actually benefits from a little resting time in the fridge—the flavors meld and deepen. Make it up to 3 days ahead, and just give it a good stir before serving and garnish freshly.
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What’s the best way to make this without an electric mixer?
You can use a food processor or even a sturdy blender to whip everything together. If you’re making it by hand, use a fork or potato masher first, then a whisk, and be prepared for a little extra arm workout!
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Can I substitute dried herbs for fresh rosemary?
Fresh rosemary gives the brightest, most aromatic result, but you can use dried in a pinch—just remember, dried is more potent, so use about a third of the amount and crush it between your fingers before adding.
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Is Whipped Feta Spread with Lemon, Garlic and Rosemary gluten-free?
Yes, the spread itself is naturally gluten-free! Just serve with gluten-free crackers or veggies instead of pita for a totally gluten-free snack or appetizer.
Final Thoughts
Give this Whipped Feta Spread with Lemon, Garlic and Rosemary a try and you’ll see just how addictively delicious and effortlessly elegant it can be. Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to make on repeat. Here’s to many happy dips and dippable moments ahead!
Print
Whipped Feta Spread with Lemon, Garlic and Rosemary Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Mixer
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Whipped Feta Spread with Lemon, Garlic, and Rosemary is a creamy, tangy, and flavorful dip that is perfect for any gathering or party. The smooth texture of whipped feta combined with the zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and fragrant rosemary creates a delicious spread that pairs perfectly with crunchy pita chips or fresh veggies.
Ingredients
Feta Spread:
- 8 oz Feta crumbles
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, finely grated
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Garnish:
- lemon zest and fresh rosemary for garnish
Serving:
- Pita chips or veggies for serving
Instructions
- Add Feta Spread Ingredients: Add Feta, cream cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper to an electric mixer bowl.
- Transfer to Serving Bowl: Spoon the whipped mixture into a shallow bowl.
- Serve: Serve with pita chips or veggies.
Whip until smooth.
Garnish: Garnish with lemon zest and fresh rosemary.
