If you are craving a flavorful and refreshing appetizer that brings the best of the Mediterranean straight to your table, this Greek Feta Dip with Fresh Vegetables and Olives Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine creamy, tangy feta perfectly whipped with cream cheese and brightened with a hint of lemon and herbs, topped with crisp grape tomatoes, cool cucumbers, and briny Kalamata olives. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels as special as it is simple, perfect for sharing and savoring any time you want a taste of sunshine and vibrant freshness in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this dip is carefully chosen to create a beautiful harmony of textures and flavors. From the creamy base to the juicy vegetables and the salty olives, each element plays a vital role in making this dish unforgettable.
- 8 ounces Feta Cheese: I suggest using block feta for a creamier texture when blended.
- 8-ounce package Cream Cheese: Adds richness and helps achieve that smooth, fluffy dip texture.
- 3 Tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Provides fruity depth and velvety texture.
- 1/2 Lemon (juiced, about 1 1/2 Tablespoons): Brings bright acidity to balance the richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon Oregano: Classic Greek herb that enhances the savory flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon Basil: Adds subtle sweetness and freshness.
- 1/2 teaspoon Pepper: A mild kick that lifts the dip’s flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes: For just the right touch of heat.
- 12 to 16 ounces Grape Tomatoes (sliced in half): Juicy bursts of natural sweetness that contrast beautifully with the tangy dip.
- 1 Hot House Cucumber (sliced): Crisp and cooling, it adds satisfying crunch.
- 2 Tablespoons Red Onion (diced): Sharp and vibrant for extra flavor complexity.
- 1 to 2 Tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: For tossing the vegetables and enhancing their taste.
- 1 teaspoon Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- Kalamata Olives (optional): Salty, fruity goodness—optional but highly recommended.
- Pita Chips or Crostinis: Perfect for scooping up this irresistible dip.
How to Make Greek Feta Dip with Fresh Vegetables and Olives Recipe
Step 1: Whip the Feta Base
Start by adding the feta cheese, cream cheese, lemon juice, olive oil, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper into a food processor or mixing bowl. Blend or mix everything until it’s completely smooth and creamy. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides a few times to ensure an even texture. You want it light, fluffy, and spreadable—this whipped base is the heart of the Greek Feta Dip with Fresh Vegetables and Olives Recipe.
Step 2: Prepare the Fresh Vegetable Mixture
In a separate bowl, combine the halved grape tomatoes, sliced cucumber, diced red onion, and Kalamata olives if using them. Toss everything with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper so every bite bursts with fresh flavor. Adjust the seasoning to your liking since the vegetables will perfectly complement the tangy cheese base.
Step 3: Assemble the Dip
Spoon the whipped feta onto a shallow bowl or platter, using the back of a spoon to create swoops and swirls. This not only makes the presentation eye-catching but also helps the fresh vegetable mixture nestle in perfectly.
Step 4: Top and Finish
Generously spoon the vegetable mixture over the whipped feta. Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the top to add luscious richness, and sprinkle a few extra herbs or red pepper flakes if you want a bit more punch. Now, your Greek Feta Dip with Fresh Vegetables and Olives Recipe is ready to impress.
How to Serve Greek Feta Dip with Fresh Vegetables and Olives Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the dip’s beauty and taste by garnishing it with fresh sprigs of oregano, basil leaves, or even a few more Kalamata olives scattered on top. A light dusting of paprika or a drizzle of additional olive oil can give an extra pop of color and flavor that invites everyone to dig in.
Side Dishes
This dip pairs wonderfully with warm pita chips or toasted crostinis that provide just the right amount of crunch. Fresh vegetable sticks such as bell peppers, carrot batons, or celery are also fantastic for dipping, adding even more color and texture to your spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your presentation up a notch by serving this dip in a hollowed-out bread bowl or small individual ramekins for guests. Layering the vegetable topping artfully and arranging pita around the plate transforms this simple dip into a stunning centerpiece for any party or gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld even more beautifully overnight, making the dip taste even better the next day. It will keep well for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Because of the fresh vegetables, freezing this dip is not ideal as it can affect texture. However, the whipped feta base can be frozen separately in a covered container for up to 1 month. Thaw it in the fridge before serving and stir well to restore creaminess.
Reheating
This dip is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary. If you prefer it slightly warm, let it sit out for a bit before serving to take the chill off, but avoid heating it in the microwave to keep the texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use pre-crumbled feta cheese instead of block feta?
While you can use pre-crumbled feta, block feta tends to blend more smoothly and creates a creamier texture, which is ideal for this dip.
Is this dip gluten-free?
The dip itself is gluten-free, but be mindful of what you serve it with. Opt for gluten-free chips or fresh vegetables instead of pita or crostinis if you need to keep it gluten-free.
Can I make this dip vegan or dairy-free?
This recipe relies heavily on feta and cream cheese for its signature flavor and creaminess, so making it vegan would require substitute cheeses and possibly tofu or cashews. It won’t taste quite the same, but experimenting with dairy-free cream cheese and vegan feta could work.
How spicy is the red pepper flakes in this recipe?
The amount of red pepper flakes adds just a mild warmth to the dip, complementing the tangy and fresh flavors without overpowering them. You can adjust the quantity to suit your spice preference.
Can I prepare the vegetables the day before?
You can slice and dice the vegetables ahead of time, but it’s best to toss them with olive oil and seasoning just before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh.
Final Thoughts
This Greek Feta Dip with Fresh Vegetables and Olives Recipe is one of those dishes that’s deceptively simple but incredibly satisfying. It’s perfect for casual gatherings or special occasions, bringing a bright Mediterranean charm that’s hard to resist. I truly encourage you to give it a try—you might find yourself reaching for it again and again as your new favorite go-to dip!
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Greek Feta Dip with Fresh Vegetables and Olives Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Greek Feta Dip is a creamy, tangy, and fresh appetizer combining whipped feta, cream cheese, and vibrant Mediterranean flavors. It’s topped with a medley of grape tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and optional Kalamata olives, making it a perfect spread for pita chips or crostinis. Quick to prepare with no cooking required, this dip delivers a burst of herbaceous and zesty notes ideal for gatherings or casual snacking.
Ingredients
Dip Base
- 8 ounces Feta Cheese (block feta recommended)
- 8 ounces Cream Cheese (1 package)
- 3 Tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
- 1/2 Lemon (juiced, about 1 1/2 Tablespoons)
- 1/2 teaspoon Oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon Basil
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
- 1 teaspoon Salt
Vegetable Topping
- 12 to 16 ounces Grape Tomatoes (sliced in half)
- 1 Hot House Cucumber (sliced)
- 2 Tablespoons Red Onion (diced)
- Kalamata Olives (optional, quantity to taste)
- 1 to 2 Tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
- Salt and Pepper (to taste)
For Serving
- Pita Chips or Crostinis
Instructions
- Prepare the Whipped Feta Base: Add the feta, cream cheese, lemon juice, olive oil, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to a food processor or mixing bowl. Blend or mix until completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. The texture should be light, fluffy, and spreadable.
- Mix the Fresh Vegetables: In a bowl, combine the sliced grape tomatoes, cucumber, diced red onion, and Kalamata olives if using. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Assemble the Dip: Spread the whipped feta generously onto a platter or shallow bowl, creating swoops and swirls with the back of a spoon to enhance presentation.
- Add the Vegetable Topping: Spoon the fresh vegetable mixture evenly over the whipped feta. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and finish with extra herbs or red pepper flakes if desired.
Notes
- Using block feta ensures a creamier, less crumbly dip.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to control the spiciness level.
- Serve immediately for best texture and freshness or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
- This dip pairs perfectly with pita chips, crostinis, or fresh vegetable sticks.
- Kalamata olives are optional but add a nice briny flavor.
