Description
This Whipped Feta with Roasted Beets & Pistachios is a creamy Mediterranean appetizer combining smooth whipped feta and Greek yogurt with tangy marinated beets. Enhanced by a luscious dressing of red wine vinegar, date molasses, and olive oil, and finished with crunchy roasted pistachios and fresh dill, this vibrant dish brings together rich flavors and textures perfect for entertaining or a light snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Beets
- 3 small or 2 medium beetroot
- Sea salt, to taste
Whipped Feta
- 140g (5 oz) feta cheese
- 100g (3.5 oz) Greek-style yogurt
- Juice of 1/4 lemon
Dressing
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1/2 tbsp date molasses
- 1/2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
Toppings
- Small handful roasted pistachios, chopped
- Small handful fresh dill, chopped
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Beets: Halve the beetroot and boil them in salted water for about 20 minutes or until tender. Drain the water and allow the beets to cool completely.
- Prepare the Whipped Feta: In a food processor, blend the feta cheese, Greek-style yogurt, and lemon juice until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Set this aside for plating.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar, date molasses, and 1/2 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil until well combined, forming a balanced and tangy dressing.
- Marinate the Beets: Peel the cooled beets and dice them into small pieces. Toss the diced beets in the prepared dressing and let them sit for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Plate the Dish: Using the back of a spoon, swirl the whipped feta onto a serving plate to create an attractive base layer.
- Add Marinated Beets: Spoon the marinated beet cubes over the whipped feta, leaving some of the marinade in the bowl to drizzle if desired.
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped roasted pistachios and freshly chopped dill evenly over the beets to add crunch and freshness.
- Finish and Serve: Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the assembled dish and add a few grinds of freshly ground black pepper. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Boiling is the primary method for cooking the beets, but you can roast them for deeper flavor if preferred.
- The whipped feta can be prepared a few hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- If date molasses is unavailable, substitute with honey or maple syrup.
- Use fresh, high-quality feta for the best flavor.
- This dish is perfect served as an appetizer or a light vegetarian snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Boiling and Blending
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: whipped feta, roasted beets, pistachios, Mediterranean appetizer, creamy dip, vegetarian appetizer, healthy appetizer
