Whipped Feta with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes and Chickpeas
This Whipped Feta with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes and Chickpeas is a Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s creamy, tangy, savory, and utterly satisfying. The salty sharpness of whipped feta pairs perfectly with juicy, blistered cherry tomatoes and crispy, spiced chickpeas. Whether served as a dip, spread, or light meal with warm pita or crusty bread, it’s both elegant and comforting.
Prep & Cook Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Whipped Feta:
7 oz (200g) feta cheese, crumbled
⅓ cup Greek yogurt or cream cheese
1 tbsp olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
1–2 tsp lemon juice, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Roasted Tomatoes & Chickpeas:
1 pint cherry tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained, rinsed, and patted dry
1½ tbsp olive oil
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp ground cumin
½ tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
To Serve:
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Extra olive oil for drizzling
Warm pita, naan, or crusty bread
Instructions:
1. Roast the Tomatoes & Chickpeas:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
On a lined baking sheet, toss tomatoes and chickpeas with olive oil, paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Roast for 20–25 minutes, or until the tomatoes are blistered and the chickpeas are golden and slightly crispy.
2. Make the Whipped Feta:
In a food processor or blender, combine feta, Greek yogurt (or cream cheese), olive oil, garlic (if using), lemon juice, and pepper.
Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
3. Assemble the Dish:
Spread whipped feta on a large plate or shallow bowl.
Spoon over the warm roasted tomatoes and chickpeas.
Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped herbs.
4. Serve:
Serve immediately with warm pita, flatbread, or baguette slices.
Notes & Tips:
Texture tip Use Greek yogurt for tangier flavor or cream cheese for richer texture.
For added flavor, add a splash of balsamic glaze over the finished dish.
Make it a meal by topping with a soft-boiled egg or grilled chicken.
Chickpeas will crisp more if you dry them thoroughly before roasting.
Frequently asked questions FAQs:
Q: Can I make whipped feta in advance?
A: Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir before serving.
Q: Can I use store-bought roasted chickpeas?
A: Yes, but roasting them with tomatoes adds flavor and cohesion to the dish.
Q: Is this served warm or cold?
A: It’s best served warm or room temperature for the creamiest texture and fullest flavor.
Q: Can I use another type of bean?
A: Yes! White beans like cannellini or butter beans work beautifully.
Q: Is this recipe vegetarian and gluten-free?
A: Yes, it’s vegetarian. It’s gluten-free if you serve it with GF bread or crackers.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 280 kcal
Protein: 11 g
Fat: 17 g
Saturated Fat: 6 g
Carbohydrates: 20 g
Fiber: 5 g
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: 540 mg
Calcium: ~180 mg
Note: Nutrition varies depending on the brand of feta and whether you use yogurt or cream cheese.