🍓🧀 Whipped Feta with Roasted Strawberries
✨ Description
Tangy, creamy whipped feta meets juicy, balsamic-kissed roasted strawberries in this heavenly pairing of flavors and textures. This dish is bold, elegant, and surprisingly easy — perfect as a summer appetizer, brunch dish, or centerpiece dip. Add some crusty bread and you’ve got yourself a crowd-pleaser! 🍓🌿🥖
🍽 Ingredients
- 8 oz feta cheese (preferably block-style in brine, drained)
- 1 pint strawberries, hulled and halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil (divided use)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
- Pinch of black pepper
- Fresh basil, torn or finely sliced (for garnish)
Optional:
- Crusty bread, crostini, or crackers for serving
- Zest of lemon for extra brightness
🔪 Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line a baking tray with parchment paper. - Roast the strawberries:
Place halved strawberries on the tray. Drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil, honey, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of black pepper. Toss gently to coat. Roast for 15–20 minutes, or until softened and syrupy. - Make the whipped feta:
While strawberries roast, add feta and remaining 1 tbsp olive oil to a food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy. If needed, add a spoonful of plain Greek yogurt or a splash of water for a softer texture. - Assemble:
Spoon the whipped feta onto a serving plate or shallow bowl. Use the back of a spoon to create swirls. Top with the warm roasted strawberries and drizzle any pan juices over. - Garnish and serve:
Scatter torn fresh basil on top. Optional: finish with lemon zest or a few cracks of black pepper. Serve with toasted bread, crackers, or as part of a mezze spread.
📝 Notes
- Use block feta (not pre-crumbled) for the best creamy texture.
- Roasted strawberries are sweet but complex thanks to the balsamic; great balance with the salty feta.
- Want extra creaminess? Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or cream cheese to the whipped feta.
- Serve warm or at room temp — both are delicious.
💡 Tips
- Roast the strawberries just until syrupy but not mushy — you want some texture.
- Make ahead: Strawberries and whipped feta can be prepared a few hours in advance and assembled just before serving.
- Serve it as a dip, crostini topping, or even inside sandwiches or wraps with greens.
🍽 Servings
- Serves: 4–6 as an appetizer or spread
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
- Total Time: 25–30 minutes
🔢 Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 190
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbs: 6g
- Sugar: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
🌿 Health Benefits
- Feta cheese is rich in calcium and protein, and lower in fat than many cheeses.
- Strawberries are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants like anthocyanins.
- Olive oil brings in healthy monounsaturated fats and anti-inflammatory compounds.
- Basil adds anti-bacterial and digestive support properties.
❓ Q&A
Q: Can I use frozen strawberries?
A: Yes — just thaw and drain first. They may be slightly softer but still roast beautifully.
Q: Is this dish good cold?
A: Absolutely! It’s delicious served chilled or at room temperature, especially on warm days.
Q: What can I serve this with?
A: Try it with grilled sourdough, pita chips, crackers, or even spread inside a sandwich with arugula.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes. Store whipped feta and roasted strawberries separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Assemble when ready to serve.
Q: Can I use goat cheese instead of feta?
A: Definitely! Goat cheese whips beautifully and has a tangy bite that pairs well with strawberries.