Lemony Whipped Feta With Charred Scallions

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Lemony Whipped Feta With Charred Scallions

Lemony Whipped Feta With Charred Scallions is a delightful and creamy dip that elevates any gathering. Its unique blend of tangy lemon and smoky scallions creates a flavor profile that is irresistible. Whether it’s a casual snack or part of an elegant appetizer spread, this dish shines in versatility and taste. Perfect for parties, game days, or any festive occasion, this whipped feta dip is sure to impress your guests.

Lemony Whipped Feta With Charred Scallions
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
  • Creamy Texture: The combination of feta and cream cheese makes for an ultra-smooth and spreadable dip.
  • Flavorful Twist: Charred scallions add a smoky sweetness, enhancing the traditional feta flavor with depth.
  • Versatile Serving Options: Serve with pita chips, crackers, or even fresh vegetables for a delightful snack.
  • Adjustable Freshness: You can easily tweak the lemon and spice levels to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious dip, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and helps achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Food processor
  • Sheet pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk or spoon

Importance of Each Tool

  • Food processor: Ensures the feta is whipped to a creamy consistency without lumps.
  • Sheet pan: Provides ample space for broiling scallions and lemons evenly.
  • Mixing bowl: Useful for combining ingredients before processing, keeping everything organized.
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Ingredients

For the Dip

  • 1 1/2 lemons, plus more to taste
  • 1 bunch scallions, trimmed and halved crosswise
  • 1/3 cup plus 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 10 ounces feta cheese, broken into large pieces (about 2 1/2 to 3 cups)
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature, or heavy cream
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, plus more for garnish
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne, plus more for garnish
  • 1 tablespoon hot water

How to Make Lemony Whipped Feta With Charred Scallions

Step 1: Preheat the Broiler

Begin by heating your broiler. Line a sheet pan with foil to make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Prepare the Lemon and Scallions

Juice one whole lemon to get about three tablespoons of juice; set this aside. Cut the remaining half of the lemon into thin slices (3 to 4 slices).

In a medium bowl, toss together the lemon slices, scallions, and one tablespoon of olive oil.

Step 3: Broil the Scallions and Lemon Slices

Place your seasoned scallions and lemon slices on the sheet pan. Broil them until they are nicely blackened:

  • Toss occasionally while broiling.
  • Cook scallions for about 7 to 9 minutes.
  • Add lemon slices for an additional 5 minutes until charred.

Once done, transfer everything to a cutting board to cool slightly.

Step 4: Blend the Dip Ingredients

In a food processor, combine:

  • Feta cheese
  • Cream cheese
  • Remaining olive oil (1/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons)
  • Reserved lemon juice
  • Black pepper
  • Cayenne
  • Hot water

Purée all ingredients until very smooth. Add almost all of the charred scallions (keeping one or two aside for garnish). Pulse briefly to combine while leaving some chunks intact.

Step 5: Taste Test and Adjust Flavors

Taste your dip for lemoniness. Adjust with more lemon juice if desired.

Step 6: Serve Your Dip

Transfer your whipped feta mixture into a serving bowl. Garnish with reserved charred scallions, black pepper, cayenne, and charred lemon slices on top.

Enjoy this delightful Lemony Whipped Feta With Charred Scallions as part of your next gathering!

How to Serve Lemony Whipped Feta With Charred Scallions

Lemony Whipped Feta With Charred Scallions is a versatile and delicious dip that can elevate any gathering. Here are some creative ways to serve this delightful dish.

With Pita Chips

  • These crunchy chips provide the perfect vessel for scooping up the creamy whipped feta, adding a satisfying texture.

On Toasted Bread

  • Spread the whipped feta on slices of toasted baguette or sourdough for a simple yet elegant appetizer.

As a Veggie Dip

  • Pair the dip with fresh vegetable sticks like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers for a colorful and healthy option.

Topped with Cherry Tomatoes

  • For an extra burst of flavor, add charred cherry tomatoes on top before serving. Their sweetness complements the feta beautifully.

As Part of a Cheese Board

  • Include this dip on a cheese board along with assorted cheeses, olives, and nuts for an impressive spread.

How to Perfect Lemony Whipped Feta With Charred Scallions

To make your Lemony Whipped Feta as delightful as possible, consider these helpful tips.

  • Use room temperature cream cheese: This will help achieve a smoother consistency when blending with the feta.
  • Adjust lemon juice: Start with less lemon juice and gradually increase it according to your taste preferences for the perfect balance.
  • Experiment with herbs: Adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley can give your whipped feta an extra layer of flavor.
  • Control the char: Monitor the broiling process closely to avoid burning the scallions and lemon slices; they should be nicely charred but not overly blackened.
  • Serve immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve your whipped feta right after preparing it.

Best Side Dishes for Lemony Whipped Feta With Charred Scallions

Pairing side dishes with Lemony Whipped Feta can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

  1. Crispy Roasted Potatoes: Golden potatoes seasoned with herbs complement the creamy dip nicely.
  2. Grilled Vegetables: Charred zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add a smoky touch that pairs well with feta.
  3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers and tomatoes offers a refreshing balance.
  4. Stuffed Grape Leaves: These savory bites provide a Mediterranean flair that works perfectly alongside whipped feta.
  5. Olive Tapenade: A tangy olive tapenade adds depth and richness to your spread when served alongside this dip.
  6. Fried Zucchini Chips: Crispy zucchini chips offer a unique crunch that contrasts well with the creamy texture of whipped feta.
  7. Hummus Platter: Serve hummus varieties alongside for a delightful assortment of flavors and textures.
  8. Mediterranean Couscous: Lightly seasoned couscous mixed with herbs makes for an excellent side dish that pairs well with all dips.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your experience in making Lemony Whipped Feta With Charred Scallions.

  • Using cold ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature. Cold ingredients won’t blend smoothly, leading to a lumpy dip.
  • Over-broiling the scallions: Keep an eye on the scallions while broiling. Overcooking can lead to bitterness; aim for a nice char without burning.
  • Not adjusting lemon flavor: Taste the dip after blending. If it lacks brightness, add more lemon juice gradually until you find the right balance.
  • Ignoring texture: Don’t over-pulse the feta mixture if you want some scallion pieces for texture. A few chunky bits make it more interesting.
  • Neglecting garnish options: Garnishes like charred lemon slices and extra scallions elevate presentation and flavor. Always consider garnishing before serving.
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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Keep it chilled to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing Lemony Whipped Feta With Charred Scallions

  • Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
  • Leave some space at the top of the container as it may expand when frozen.

Reheating Lemony Whipped Feta With Charred Scallions

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm in a covered dish for about 15-20 minutes.
  • Microwave: Heat in short bursts (30 seconds) until warmed through, stirring between intervals.
  • Stovetop: Gently heat over low heat in a non-stick pan, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Lemony Whipped Feta With Charred Scallions.

What is Lemony Whipped Feta With Charred Scallions?

Lemony Whipped Feta With Charred Scallions is a creamy, tangy dip made from whipped feta, cream cheese, and charred scallions, perfect for snacking.

Can I use different cheeses?

Yes! You can experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta for a different flavor profile while keeping similar textures.

How do I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add herbs like dill or basil, or sprinkle red pepper flakes for extra heat. Customize based on your taste preferences!

Is this recipe suitable for parties?

Absolutely! Lemony Whipped Feta With Charred Scallions makes a delightful appetizer that pairs well with pita chips and crackers at gatherings.

How long does this dip last in the refrigerator?

The dip lasts about 5 days when stored properly in an airtight container. Make sure to keep it refrigerated.

Final Thoughts

Lemony Whipped Feta With Charred Scallions is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it as a dip or spread, and it’s perfect for any occasion. Try adding your favorite toppings or herbs to make it truly yours!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Lemony Whipped Feta With Charred Scallions

Lemony Whipped Feta With Charred Scallions


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  • Author: Jennifer
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x

Description

Lemony Whipped Feta With Charred Scallions is a creamy and tangy dip that transforms any gathering into a memorable feast. This delightful recipe combines the rich flavors of whipped feta cheese with the smoky sweetness of charred scallions, all brightened by fresh lemon juice. Perfect as a quick appetizer for parties or a flavorful snack during game days, this dip is versatile enough to be served with pita chips, fresh vegetables, or toasted bread. Easy to prepare in just 20 minutes, it’s sure to impress your guests and become a favorite on your entertaining menu.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 lemons
  • 1 bunch scallions
  • 1/3 cup plus 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 10 ounces feta cheese
  • 4 ounces cream cheese
  • Black pepper for seasoning
  • Cayenne for seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon hot water

Instructions

  1. Preheat your broiler and line a sheet pan with foil.
  2. Juice one lemon and set aside; slice the remaining half into thin rounds.
  3. Toss scallions and lemon slices with olive oil on the sheet pan.
  4. Broil scallions for about 7-9 minutes, adding lemon slices for an additional 5 minutes until charred.
  5. In a food processor, blend feta, cream cheese, remaining olive oil, reserved lemon juice, black pepper, cayenne, and hot water until smooth.
  6. Stir in most charred scallions and adjust flavor with extra lemon juice if desired.
  7. Serve garnished with reserved scallions and enjoy!
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Broiling
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 cup (60g)
  • Calories: 170
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 430mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg

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