Description
A vibrant and creamy Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip combining tangy cranberry sauce with smooth whipped feta and cream cheese, topped with crunchy pistachios, a touch of heat from crushed red pepper flakes, and a drizzle of honey. Perfect as a festive appetizer or party dip served with crackers, pita chips, crostini, or fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
Cranberry Sauce
- ½ cup orange juice
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 12 ounces cranberries (fresh or frozen, 1 bag)
Whipped Feta Dip
- 8 ounces feta cheese (1 block)
- ½ cup cream cheese (or Greek yogurt)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Toppings and Garnish
- 2 tablespoons pistachios, chopped
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions
- Make the cranberry sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine orange juice, granulated sugar, and cranberries. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing most cranberries to burst.
- Mash and thicken the sauce: Stir the cranberry mixture constantly and use the back of a spoon to mash the cranberries until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes.
- Prepare the whipped feta: In a food processor or blender, add the feta cheese, cream cheese, and olive oil. Process until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If the texture is too thick, add 1 teaspoon of water at a time until you achieve the desired consistency.
- Assemble the dip: Transfer the whipped feta mixture to a serving bowl. Use the back of a spoon to create a swirl pattern on the surface.
- Add cranberry topping and garnishes: Spoon the cooled cranberry sauce over the whipped feta, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle with chopped pistachios and crushed red pepper flakes, then drizzle honey on top to add a touch of sweetness.
- Serve: Serve the cranberry whipped feta dip with crackers, pita chips, crostini, or fresh vegetables for dipping. Enjoy immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
- For a lighter alternative, substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt.
- If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of granulated sugar in the cranberry sauce.
- The crushed red pepper flakes add a spicy kick; adjust quantity to taste or omit for a milder flavor.
- Make the cranberry sauce ahead and refrigerate to save time before assembling the dip.
- This dip pairs beautifully with toasted baguette slices or assorted raw veggies like celery and bell peppers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American