Pumpkin Whipped Feta Dip

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Pumpkin Whipped Feta Dip is a deliciously unique take on traditional dips. The pumpkin puree adds a creamy base, while the feta brings a tangy and rich flavor. The sweetness of honey complements the saltiness of the feta, and the walnuts provide a satisfying crunch. The dip can be made in advance, making it a great choice for entertaining, and it’s versatile enough to be served with toasted bread, crackers, or crostini. The fresh thyme adds an aromatic touch, enhancing the overall taste.

Ingredients

Whipped Feta:

• Approx. 8 oz block of feta cheese, drained from brine (around 220 grams)

• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (use a higher fat option for less tartness)

• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (unsweetened)

• 1-2 Tbsp honey (plus more, to serve)

• 1 tsp dried thyme (or 2 tsp fresh thyme)

• Black pepper (freshly cracked)

Toppings:

• Fresh thyme (can use dried, if needed)

• Chopped walnuts (optional; raw or toasted)

• Extra honey drizzle

Serve With:

• Crusty, toasted bread (like sourdough or baguette)

• Crackers

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Make the whipped feta by adding the feta cheese and Greek yogurt to a food processor. Blend ingredients together for a few minutes until smooth, scraping down with a spatula as needed.

2. Add pumpkin puree, 1 or 2 tablespoons of honey (depending on desired sweetness), thyme, and a few cracks of black pepper to the food processor. Blend again until all ingredients are well combined.

3. Transfer the whipped feta to the fridge and chill (covered) for 30-60 minutes. This is necessary to firm up the dip and improve its consistency.

4. When you’re ready to serve, transfer the whipped feta to a large bowl. Garnish with a handful of chopped walnuts (optional), a generous sprinkle of fresh thyme, an extra drizzle of honey, and more pepper.

5. Serve with crusty toasted bread or crackers for dipping. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Chill Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Add More Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dip, increase the amount of honey to taste. You can drizzle extra honey over the top before serving for a sweet finishing touch.

• Herb Variations: While thyme is a key ingredient, you can experiment with other herbs like rosemary or sage for a different flavor profile.

• Vegan Version: Swap out the feta cheese with a vegan feta and use a non-dairy yogurt alternative to make this dip vegan-friendly.

• Serve as Crostini: Instead of serving the dip in a bowl, spread the whipped feta on toasted baguette slices, top with walnuts, thyme, and honey for a bite-sized version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors may even develop further as it sits, making it a great make-ahead dip.

• Reheating: While this dip is best served chilled, if you prefer it warm, you can microwave it for a few seconds. However, it’s recommended to serve it chilled for the best texture.

FAQs

1. How do I make sure my whipped feta is smooth?

To achieve a smooth texture, use a block of feta stored in brine instead of crumbled feta. The brine helps maintain the creamy consistency. Be sure to blend well in the food processor, scraping down the sides as needed.

2. Can I use cow’s milk feta instead of sheep’s milk feta?

Yes, but sheep’s milk feta has a sharper, more tangy flavor than cow’s milk feta. If you prefer a milder dip, go ahead and use cow’s milk feta, but the flavor will differ slightly.

3. Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes! This dip can be made up to a day in advance. Just make sure to chill it in the fridge for at least 30-60 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the dip to firm up.

4. Can I make this dip without Greek yogurt?

Greek yogurt helps balance the saltiness of the feta, but if you prefer not to use it, you can substitute it with a small amount of sour cream or cream cheese. Keep in mind that it might alter the flavor and texture slightly.

5. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Canned pumpkin puree is recommended for its smooth texture and convenience. If using fresh pumpkin, make sure to cook and puree it thoroughly before adding it to the dip.

6. How long can I keep leftovers?

Leftovers will stay good in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store them in an airtight container to preserve freshness.

7. What can I serve this dip with?

This dip is best served with crusty bread, toasted baguette slices, or crackers. It also works great as a spread for sandwiches or wraps.

8. Can I add other toppings to the dip?

Yes! You can get creative with toppings. Try adding roasted pumpkin seeds, crumbled bacon, or caramelized onions for an extra layer of flavor.

9. Is this dip spicy?

No, this dip is not spicy. However, if you enjoy a little heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to give it some kick.

10. Can I make this dip dairy-free?

Yes, you can make a dairy-free version by using a dairy-free feta and a plant-based yogurt alternative. Make sure to choose options that have a similar tangy flavor to Greek yogurt for the best results.

Conclusion

This Pumpkin Whipped Feta Dip is a delightful blend of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors that will surely impress your guests. Easy to make in just under an hour, it’s perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to festive parties. Whether served as a dip with toasted bread or transformed into crostini, this versatile dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

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