Name: Whipped Feta and Honey with Pistachios and Toasted Baguette Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 8 ounces cow’s milk feta cheese; 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice; 2 tablespoons whole milk or plain Greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons olive oil; ¼ cup honey; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes; ⅓ cup chopped pistachios for garnish; Toasted baguette slices for serving

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Introduction

Whipped Feta and Honey is a creamy, tangy dip with a delightful spicy-sweet kick. Combining smooth feta cheese with warm honey and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes, it makes an irresistible appetizer perfect for any gathering.

The image shows a dish with a swirl of thick, creamy white cheese spread at the center of a white plate, topped with a glossy amber honey drizzle and scattered crushed pistachios and small red chili flakes. Surrounding the cheese spread is a ring of golden-brown toasted bread slices, each with a crispy texture and small holes in the crumb. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface, with small bowls nearby containing crushed pistachios and a halved lemon partially visible at the top left. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 ounces cow’s milk feta cheese
¼ cup honey
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons whole milk or plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons olive oil
⅓ cup chopped pistachios for garnish
Toasted baguette slices for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Break the block of feta into about 8 pieces and place them in a fine mesh strainer. Rinse briefly under cold water then drain well. This step is optional but helps remove some of the saltiness.
Step 2: While the feta is draining, make the hot honey. Combine the honey and red pepper flakes in a small saucepan. Warm over medium heat until the honey starts to simmer. Remove from the heat and let it cool while preparing the dip.
Step 3: Transfer the feta to the bowl of a food processor. Add the lemon juice and milk or Greek yogurt. Process until the mixture resembles ricotta or cottage cheese.
Step 4: With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. Scrape the bottom of the bowl and process again until the mixture is smooth and creamy, similar in consistency to Greek yogurt.
Step 5: Transfer the dip to a serving bowl. Use a spoon to create a swirl in the dip, then drizzle the cooled hot honey over the top.
Step 6: Garnish with finely chopped pistachios and serve immediately with toasted baguette slices.

Tips & Variations

For a milder heat, reduce the red pepper flakes or omit them entirely.
Try swapping pistachios for toasted walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
Use plain Greek yogurt instead of milk for a tangier, thicker texture.
Add fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for an herbal note.

Storage

Store any leftover whipped feta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Drizzle the hot honey just before serving again, as it may harden when chilled. Reheat the honey gently if needed to return it to a drizzle consistency.

How to Serve

A white plate holds a creamy white cheese spread swirled in a spiral pattern, topped with a shiny golden honey drizzle and scattered with crushed green pistachios and red chili flakes. Surrounding the cheese are several slices of golden toasted baguette arranged in a circle, each slice showing a crispy texture with small holes and a light sheen of oil. Next to the plate, there is a small white bowl with lemon halves, and two small clear jars containing chopped pistachios and red chili flakes, all set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Feta is key for the distinct tangy flavor and creamy texture, but you could try fresh goat cheese as a substitute for a milder taste.

Is it necessary to rinse the feta?

Rinsing is optional but recommended if you prefer a less salty dip. It softens the strong saltiness typical of brined feta.