Whipped Feta with Hot Honey & Hazelnuts
A wildly addictive dip that perfectly balances creamy, salty feta with tangy Greek yogurt, sweet and spicy hot honey, and the satisfying crunch of toasted hazelnuts.
For 4 servings
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread hazelnuts on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes until fragrant and skins loosen. Rub them in a clean kitchen towel to remove most of the skins, then coarsely chop.
In a food processor, combine the crumbled feta cheese, Greek yogurt, and 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil.
Process on high speed, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed, until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Taste and add a pinch of salt and black pepper if desired, keeping in mind feta is already salty.
Transfer the whipped feta to a shallow serving bowl or dish, spreading it evenly or creating a slight well in the center for the honey.
Drizzle generously with hot honey and sprinkle the toasted, chopped hazelnuts over the top. If desired, garnish with fresh chopped parsley or mint. Serve immediately with warm pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Ingredient Temperature: Ensure feta and Greek yogurt are at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before whipping. This helps achieve a smoother, creamier consistency.
- 2Adjusting Consistency: If the dip is too thick, add another teaspoon of olive oil or a splash of milk/water until desired creaminess is reached. If too thin, add a bit more crumbled feta and whip again.
- 3Toasting Nuts: Don't skip toasting the hazelnuts! It significantly enhances their flavor and aroma, adding a crucial depth to the dip. Watch them closely as they can burn quickly.
- 4Make Ahead: The whipped feta can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Before serving, let it come to room temperature and give it a quick stir. Add hot honey and hazelnuts just before serving to maintain texture.
Adapt it for your goals.
Nut Swaps
Replace hazelnuts with toasted pistachios, walnuts, or even pine nuts for a different nutty profile and visual appeal.
Sweetener AlternativesSweetener Alternatives
Instead of hot honey, use regular honey with a pinch of chili flakes, or a fig jam for a fruitier sweetness and different texture.
Herbaceous TwistHerbaceous Twist
Incorporate fresh herbs like dill, chives, or oregano directly into the whipped feta for an added layer of freshness and complexity.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Protein
Feta cheese and Greek yogurt are excellent sources of protein, contributing to satiety, muscle health, and overall bodily function.
Healthy Fats
Olive oil and hazelnuts provide beneficial monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are known to support heart health and aid in nutrient absorption.
Calcium Boost
Feta cheese and Greek yogurt are good sources of calcium, an essential mineral for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, the whipped feta can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Add the hot honey and hazelnuts just before serving to ensure optimal texture and freshness.
