Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip with Hot Honey Drizzle

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Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip with Hot Honey Drizzle

Ingredients:

  • 200 g (7 oz) feta cheese

    • A rich and tangy cheese that serves as the base of the dip.

  • 100 g (3.5 oz) cream cheese, softened

    • Adds creaminess to balance the saltiness of the feta cheese.

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

    • Provides a silky texture to the dip.

  • 1/4 cup fresh thyme leaves

    • Adds an earthy, herby flavor to complement the richness of the cheeses.

  • 1/4 cup cranberry sauce (or whole cranberries if preferred)

    • Sweet and tart, cranberry adds a refreshing contrast to the salty feta.

  • 1 tablespoon hot honey (or regular honey with a dash of chili flakes)

    • A sweet and spicy drizzle that adds depth and flavor to the dish.

  • Crackers or fresh bread for serving

    • For dipping and complementing the flavors of the dip.

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Ingredients:

    • In a food processor, combine the feta cheese and cream cheese. Blend until smooth and creamy.

    • If you’re using whole cranberries, pulse them in a food processor or chop them finely before adding them to the dip.

  2. Blend the Feta and Cream Cheese:

    • Add the olive oil and thyme leaves to the mixture, and pulse until everything is well incorporated and smooth.

  3. Add Cranberry Sauce:

    • Gently fold in the cranberry sauce or chopped cranberries. You can add a bit more or less depending on how tangy you want the dip.

  4. Prepare the Hot Honey Drizzle:

    • In a small saucepan, gently heat the honey over low heat. If you’re using regular honey, stir in a pinch of chili flakes to make your hot honey.

  5. Assemble the Dip:

    • Transfer the whipped feta mixture to a serving bowl.

    • Drizzle the hot honey over the top, followed by a few sprigs of thyme to garnish.

  6. Serve:

    • Serve with crackers or fresh bread on the side. The sweetness from the cranberry and honey, along with the savory feta, makes this dip incredibly flavorful.

Benefits:

  • Feta Cheese: A great source of protein and calcium.

  • Cream Cheese: Adds smooth texture, while keeping the dip rich and indulgent.

  • Cranberry Sauce: Rich in antioxidants and helps boost your immune system.

  • Honey: Honey has natural antibacterial properties and adds a touch of sweetness with a bit of heat when using hot honey.

  • Olive Oil: Offers heart-healthy fats.

Nutritional Info (Approximate per Serving):

  • Calories: 180-220 kcal

  • Carbohydrates: 8-12 g

  • Protein: 6-8 g

  • Fat: 16-18 g (depending on the amount of olive oil used)

  • Fiber: 0-2 g

  • Sodium: 300-400 mg

Tips:

  • Serving: Serve this dip at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

  • Make-Ahead: You can prepare the whipped feta dip ahead of time and refrigerate it, but allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the creamiest texture.

  • Spicy Version: Add more chili flakes to your hot honey if you prefer extra heat.

  • Texture Variation: For a chunkier dip, pulse the feta and cream cheese less in the food processor.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q/A):

Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?
A1: If you’re not a fan of feta, you can substitute it with goat cheese or ricotta for a milder flavor. However, feta adds a unique tanginess that complements the sweetness of the honey and cranberry.

Q2: Can I make the honey drizzle ahead of time?
A2: Yes, you can make the hot honey in advance. Just store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Q3: Can I freeze this dip?
A3: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to store leftovers, you can freeze the whipped feta mixture (without the honey drizzle) for up to 1 month. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.

Q4: What can I serve this dip with?
A4: Serve with crackers, fresh baguette slices, or even vegetable sticks like carrots and celery. It’s also delicious with pita chips!

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