Whipped Feta with Greek Salad: A Perfect Mediterranean Combo
Enjoy the flavours of Greece with this delightful Whipped Feta with Greek Salad recipe. Combining the creamy richness of whipped feta with the fresh, vibrant flavours of a traditional Greek salad, this dish is perfect for any occasion. The smooth and tangy whipped feta spread on crispy sourdough bread creates a delicious contrast to the crunchy vegetables and briny olives. Topped with a sprinkle of dried oregano and a drizzle of lemon juice and olive oil, this appetiser is not only visually appealing but also packed with Mediterranean flavours. Ideal for a light lunch, a starter for dinner parties, or a quick and healthy snack, this recipe will impress your guests and leave them craving more. Enjoy the harmonious blend of creamy and crunchy textures with every bite!
Thyroid-Friendly Benefits
Feta Cheese and Cream Cheese: Both contain iodine, which is crucial for thyroid hormone production and overall thyroid health. Iodine supports the synthesis of thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism.
Olive Oil: Provides healthy fats and antioxidants that support the thyroid gland’s function and reduce inflammation.
Diabetes-Friendly Benefits
Feta Cheese: High in protein and fat, which can help stabilize blood sugar levels and provide sustained energy.
Cucumbers and Cherry Tomatoes: Low in carbohydrates and high in fiber, which help in maintaining stable blood sugar levels and improve digestion.
Olive Oil: Contains monounsaturated fats that improve insulin sensitivity and support healthy blood sugar levels.
Macronutrient Composition per Serving (approximate)
Calories: 250
Protein: 8g
Fat: 20g
Carbs: 10g
Ingredients Used For Whipped Feta with Greek Salad
Whipped Feta:
Cream Cheese: Adds a smooth, creamy texture that helps balance the tanginess of the feta cheese.
Feta Cheese: Provides a salty, tangy flavour that is characteristic of Greek cuisine, giving the spread its distinctive taste.
Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps to create a smooth, cohesive mixture when whipping the cheeses.
Topping:
Cherry Tomatoes: Bring a burst of sweetness and juiciness, adding vibrant colour to the dish.
Red Onion: Adds a sharp, slightly spicy flavour and crunchy texture.
Green Pepper: Contributes a fresh, slightly bitter taste and crunch.
Kalamata Olives: Introduce a briny, savoury flavour that enhances the overall taste profile.
Cucumbers: Provide a refreshing, crisp texture and mild flavour that balances the stronger tastes of the other ingredients.
Dried Oregano: Adds a classic Mediterranean herb flavour, enhancing the authenticity of the Greek salad.
Lemon Juice: Adds a zesty, tangy flavour that brightens the salad and complements the creamy feta.
Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps to meld the flavours of the salad together.
Alternative Ingredients
Whipped Feta:
Cream Cheese: Substitute with Greek yoghurt for a tangier, lighter version.
Feta Cheese: Use goat cheese for a milder, slightly tangy flavour.
Topping:
Cherry Tomatoes: Substitute with grape tomatoes or diced heirloom tomatoes.
Red Onion: Use shallots or green onions for a milder taste.
Green Pepper: Replace with red, yellow, or orange bell peppers for a sweeter flavour.
Kalamata Olives: Use black olives or green olives if preferred.
Dried Oregano: Fresh oregano, thyme, or basil can be used for a different herb flavor.
Lemon Juice: Substitute with white wine vinegar for a different tangy note.
Preparation Tips For Whipped Feta with Greek Salad
- Whipping the Feta: Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before blending to achieve a smoother consistency. Whip the mixture until it is completely smooth and fluffy.
- Chopping Vegetables: Dice the vegetables uniformly for a more appealing presentation and even distribution of flavours.
- Mixing the Salad: Allow the salad mixture to sit for a few minutes after mixing to let the flavours meld together before topping the bread.
Serving Tips For Whipped Feta with Greek Salad
- Assembling the Dish: Spread the whipped feta generously on the sourdough bread slices and top with the Greek salad mixture just before serving to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
- Garnishing: Garnish with fresh oregano or a sprinkle of fresh or dry oregano for an added touch of flavour. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil for a richer taste.
Storage Tips
Whipped Feta: Store any leftover whipped feta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Re-whip if necessary before serving to restore its creamy texture.
Greek Salad: Store the Greek salad mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, it’s best when consumed fresh.
Assembled Dish: It’s best to assemble the dish just before serving. If you need to store assembled leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within one day to avoid soggy bread and preserve the freshness of the vegetables.
Whipped Feta with Greek Salad
Ingredients
Whipped Feta
- 200 g cream cheese
- 100 g feta cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Topping
- 2 slices sourdough bread
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
- ½ small red onion, diced
- ½ green pepper, diced
- ¼ cup kalamata olives, diced
- 2 cucumbers, diced
- 1 tsp oregano, dried
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- To prepare the whipped feta, combine the cream cheese, feta cheese, and olive oil in a food processor. Process on high until the mixture is completely whipped, smooth, and creamy, which should take about two to three minutes.
- Next, in a medium-sized bowl, mix the cherry tomatoes, red onion, green pepper, kalamata olives, and cucumbers. Add the oregano, lemon juice, and olive oil, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- To assemble the dish, spoon the whipped feta onto slices of sourdough bread. Top with the Greek salad mixture and garnish with fresh oregano. For an extra touch, drizzle with additional extra virgin olive oil if desired. Enjoy immediately!
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