Description
This creamy and flavorful Garlic Feta Dip combines tangy feta cheese, smooth cream cheese, and zesty garlic for a delicious appetizer perfect for any gathering. Enhanced with Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, and aromatic oregano, it’s balanced with crunchy diced red bell peppers and fresh parsley. Serve it with crackers, fresh vegetables, or pita bread for a quick and easy snack everyone will love.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 ounces crumbled feta cheese (divided)
- 4 ounces light cream cheese (Neufchatel cheese, at room temperature)
- 1/3 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1-2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
For Serving
- Crackers
- Fresh veggies
- Pita bread or pita chips
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Gather all the ingredients, ensuring the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier blending. Wash and dice the red bell pepper and chop fresh parsley for garnish.
- Blend the Dip: In the bowl of a food processor fitted with a steel blade, place two-thirds of the crumbled feta cheese, cream cheese, Greek yogurt, garlic cloves, freshly squeezed lemon juice, dried oregano, and ground black pepper. Blend the mixture until it becomes smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides if necessary.
- Assemble and Serve: Transfer the blended dip to a serving bowl. Sprinkle the remaining third of crumbled feta cheese evenly over the top, followed by the diced red bell pepper and chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and texture. Serve immediately with crackers, fresh vegetables, pita bread, or pita chips.
- Storage Instructions: If you prefer to prepare the dip ahead of time, cover and refrigerate it for up to one day. Add the garnishes of feta, bell pepper, and parsley just before serving to maintain their freshness and vibrant appearance.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce before blending.
- You can substitute regular cream cheese if Neufchatel is unavailable, but Neufchatel offers a lighter option.
- Using fresh garlic rather than garlic powder enhances the dip’s robust flavor.
- If you want a thinner consistency, blend in a teaspoon or two of olive oil or additional Greek yogurt.
- This dip can be prepared a few hours ahead; just keep it refrigerated and add the fresh toppings before serving.