Whipped Feta and Ricotta Dip with Roasted Garlic Recipe
If you’re searching for an appetizer that will completely steal the show at your next gathering, look no further than this Whipped Feta and Ricotta Dip with Roasted Garlic. Bursting with zesty roasted lemon, creamy cheeses, golden honey, and the gentle warmth of roasted garlic, this spreadable delight delivers the perfect balance of briny, bright, and herby flavors. One swoop of toasted baguette or crunchy cucumber through this cloudlike dip is all it takes to convince anyone that a little decadence goes a long way!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Whipped Feta and Ricotta Dip with Roasted Garlic is in how these simple, quality ingredients come together. Each plays a role in the show-stopping flavor and irresistible, fluffy texture—you won’t believe how easy it is to transform them into something this crave-worthy.
- Fresh lemon chunks (rind included): Roasting lemon with the rind deepens its flavor and lends a marvelously bold citrusy punch to the dip.
- Olive oil: Divided for roasting and blending, a good olive oil gives the dip silkiness, richness, and a beautiful finish.
- Large garlic cloves: Roasting transforms garlic from pungent to sweet and mellow, infusing every bite with gentle aroma.
- Block feta cheese: Crumbly, tangy feta is the backbone, delivering salty depth and that classic Mediterranean flavor.
- Cream cheese or ricotta: Cream cheese makes things ultra smooth and lush, while ricotta adds a mild, pillowy softness—either choice is delicious!
- Honey: Adds a gorgeous hint of sweetness to balance the salt and acidity; don’t skip the final drizzle for the perfect finish.
- Red pepper flakes: Adds tiny pops of heat, both within the dip and as a vibrant garnish on top.
- Fresh thyme and oregano: Gives the dip unmistakable garden-fresh aromatics and color.
- Optional garnishes: sliced lemon, Kalamata olives: These don’t just look pretty—salty olives and fresh lemon slices create layers of flavor in every bite.
- Serve with: Toasted baguette, pita bread, cucumber, or carrots make perfect dippers to soak up all that creamy goodness.
How to Make Whipped Feta and Ricotta Dip with Roasted Garlic
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While the oven is coming up to temperature, line a baking sheet with parchment paper so nothing sticks—trust me, this makes cleanup a breeze!
Step 2: Roast the Lemon and Garlic
Next, you’re going to wake up those flavors: Place your lemon chunks (yes, rind and all) on the baking sheet and drizzle them with olive oil. For the garlic, pop the cloves in a small ramekin, cover with ¼ cup of olive oil, and nestle it onto the same baking sheet. Slide everything into the oven and roast for 15 minutes. The warmth will soften the lemons and mellow out the garlic, releasing their flavors beautifully.
Step 3: Blend the Dip
Now for the fun part! In a food processor, combine the feta, your choice of cream cheese or ricotta, the rest of the olive oil, honey, red pepper flakes, thyme, oregano, and your freshly roasted lemon (yes, including that glorious rind). Add the roasted garlic and all the fragrant olive oil from its ramekin. Pulse until the mixture is smooth, then let it blend fully so it turns fluffy and creamy. You want an irresistible, cloudlike consistency—don’t rush this part!
Step 4: Transfer, Garnish, and Serve
Spoon your Whipped Feta and Ricotta Dip with Roasted Garlic into a pretty serving bowl. Top it with torn thyme, extra honey, a pinch of red pepper flakes, sliced lemon, and a scattering of Kalamata olives. Each garnish is a flavor boost and a feast for the eyes. All that’s left is to set out your favorite dippers—baguette, pita, crunchy cucumbers, or carrots—and watch your guests swoon!
How to Serve Whipped Feta and Ricotta Dip with Roasted Garlic
Garnishes
The right garnish can transform a good dip into an unforgettable one. Sprinkle fresh thyme and oregano for color and scent, draw swirls of golden honey for sweetness, dot with red pepper flakes, and arrange a few thinly sliced lemons and Kalamata olives over the top. Not only do these garnishes add bursts of contrasting flavors, but they also make your platter party-ready and totally irresistible.
Side Dishes
Honestly, anything scoopable or spreadable will be delighted to dive into your Whipped Feta and Ricotta Dip with Roasted Garlic. Pile some toasted baguette or pita triangles on a board, and offer a selection of sliced cucumbers, colorful carrots, or even warm roasted potatoes. If you want to go above and beyond, add some marinated artichokes or crunchy pickled peppers alongside.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to turn your dip into the centerpiece, think outside the bowl! Spread it thick on toasted sourdough and top with cherry tomatoes for a stunning brunch bruschetta; serve as part of a lavish mezze grazing board with olives and grilled vegetables; or pipe it into tiny phyllo shells for elegant one-bite appetizers at your next dinner party. The options are as endless as your imagination.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To store leftover Whipped Feta and Ricotta Dip with Roasted Garlic, simply transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to four days, so feel free to make it ahead for easy snacking or last-minute entertaining. The flavors actually deepen a bit after some time in the fridge!
Freezing
While this dip is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it if needed. Place the dip in a freezer-safe container with a piece of plastic wrap pressed against the surface to prevent ice crystals. It’ll keep for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge, but note that the texture may lose some of its creaminess after freezing.
Reheating
This gorgeous dip is usually served chilled or at room temperature, but if you like yours a bit warmer, spoon the desired portion into a microwave-safe bowl and heat for bursts of 10-15 seconds, stirring until just slightly warmed. Be careful not to overheat, as the cheeses can separate and lose their fluffy texture.
FAQs
Can I use only feta, skipping the ricotta or cream cheese?
You certainly can! The dip will just be a bit saltier and firmer, so if you skip the ricotta or cream cheese, consider adding an extra drizzle of olive oil and maybe a tablespoon or two of plain yogurt for extra creaminess.
What can I substitute for honey?
If you need a honey alternative, maple syrup or agave nectar are both great swaps. They’ll give you that same subtle touch of sweetness that perfectly balances the savory elements of the Whipped Feta and Ricotta Dip with Roasted Garlic.
Do I really need to roast the lemon with the rind?
Roasting the lemon with the rind might sound unusual, but it adds a tantalizing bitterness and complexity that makes the dip unforgettable. If you prefer a softer lemon flavor, you can peel the rind off first, but for the most striking flavor, roast it whole!
Which dippers go best with this dip?
Classic toasted baguette is a crowd favorite, but for gluten-free options, load up on cucumber rounds, carrot sticks, sweet bell pepper strips, or even crispy chickpea crackers. Each adds a different crunch and makes the Whipped Feta and Ricotta Dip with Roasted Garlic shine!
Can I make this ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely—this dip actually gets even better after a few hours in the fridge, making it ideal for prepping in advance. Just hold off on the garnishes until right before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.
Final Thoughts
There’s truly nothing like sharing a homemade bowl of Whipped Feta and Ricotta Dip with Roasted Garlic with friends and family. Whether you serve it as a party opener, a cozy snack, or a show-stealing centerpiece, you’re guaranteed rave reviews. Give it a whirl and see just how quickly this dip disappears from the table!
Print
Whipped Feta and Ricotta Dip with Roasted Garlic Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 2 cups 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful and flavorful whipped feta and ricotta dip with the rich aroma of roasted garlic. This creamy and tangy dip is perfect for parties or a delicious snack.
Ingredients
For Roasting:
- 1 large lemon, cut into chunks (rind included)
- ½ cup olive oil, divided, plus extra for drizzling
- 5 large garlic cloves
For Dip:
- 8 oz. block feta cheese
- 8 oz. block cream cheese (or ricotta)
- ¼ cup honey, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 tsp. red pepper flakes, plus more for garnish
- 1 tsp. fresh thyme, plus more for garnish
- 1 tsp. fresh oregano, plus more for garnish
- Optional garnish: sliced lemon, Kalamata olives
- Serve with: toasted baguette, pita bread, cucumber, or carrots
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. - Roast the lemon and garlic:
Place lemon chunks on the baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. In a small ramekin, cover garlic cloves with ¼ cup of olive oil. Place on the same baking sheet and roast for 15 minutes. - Blend the dip:
In a food processor, combine feta, cream cheese, the remaining ¼ cup olive oil, honey, red pepper flakes, thyme, oregano, and the roasted lemon (including the rind). Add the roasted garlic and its olive oil. Pulse until smooth, then blend until fully combined. - Garnish & serve:
Transfer to a serving dish and top with Kalamata olives, honey, thyme, red pepper flakes, and sliced lemon. Serve with toasted baguette, pita bread, cucumber, or carrots.
Notes
- Feel free to adjust the honey and red pepper flakes to suit your taste preferences.
- This dip can be made ahead and refrigerated, covered, for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Roasting, Blending
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Whipped Feta, Ricotta Dip, Roasted Garlic, Appetizer, Party Food
