I love cranberries and find them so festive in holiday meals and snacks. We have plenty of cranberry sauce at Thanksgiving and I always have a batch in my fridge for all of December. I use it for making sandwiches and yummy things like this Cranberry Whipped Feta. Then, I have to make a whole new batch for Christmas!
This quick dip is so good for holiday entertaining. It’s great for serving with crackers, toasted pita, or vegetables. Or, it could also be used as a delicious sandwich or cracker spread. I like using it for open-faced toasted sandwiches sometimes, too.
For entertaining, I set a bowl of this up on a grazing table. It’s really pretty to look at and people love dipping crackers and vegetables into it as they float by. I also appreciate that it’s really easy to make ahead. In fact, I usually make it well in advanced of the party so the flavors have time to marry. It tastes incredible this way.
I hope you enjoy this delicious twist on our favorite whipped feta dip. It’s a festive and fun way to celebrate the holidays!
Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip
a perfect holiday appetizer combining the tangy flavor of feta with the sweet-tart cranberry sauce!
Ingredients:
For the whipped feta:
8 oz feta cheese (block, not crumbled)
4 oz cream cheese (softened)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 garlic clove (minced)
1/4 tsp black pepper
For the cranberry sauce:
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup water
1/4 cup orange juice
1/2 tsp orange zest
Pinch of cinnamon
For garnish:
Fresh rosemary and thyme (optional)
Pistachios (optional)
Instructions:
1. Make the cranberry sauce:
In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, orange juice, and orange zest. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens. Add a pinch of cinnamon if desired.
Remove from heat and let the sauce cool completely.
2. Whip the feta:
In a food processor, combine the feta cheese, cream cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and black pepper.
Process for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, add a splash of water or more olive oil to loosen it up.
3. Assemble the dip:
Spread the whipped feta in a shallow serving dish or bowl, creating a smooth surface.
Spoon the cooled cranberry sauce over the top, spreading it evenly.
4. Garnish and serve:
Garnish the dip with fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs and a drizzle of honey for sweetness if desired. You can also sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
5. Serve with:
Serve the dip with pita chips, crackers, or sliced baguette for dipping.
Nikki Glekas is the owner of Nikki Glekas Events, a full-service catering and events company located in Stamford, CT.. To discuss further please contact team@nikkiglekascollective.com or call 203.658.8659.
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