Whipped Feta with Hot Honey Recipe

This creamy dip blends the rich flavors of feta and neufchatel cheese, enhanced by a touch of sweet honey, peanuts, and fresh herbs. Perfect for a snack or appetizer, it's simple to prepare and guaranteed to impress!

Ingredients

• 2 ounces feta cheese
• 2 ounces neufchatel cheese or cream cheese
• 1 1/2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 2 tablespoons hot honey
• 2 tablespoons chopped honey roasted peanuts
• 1 tablespoon chopped green onions
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Directions

1. Start by placing the feta cheese, neufchatel cheese, and olive oil in a food processor. Pulse until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
2. Add the minced garlic, dried basil, and freshly ground black pepper to the food processor. Pulse a few more times until everything is evenly combined and smooth.
3. Transfer the cheese mixture into a small serving bowl.
4. In a separate small bowl, stir together the hot honey, chopped honey roasted peanuts, chopped green onions, and a pinch of black pepper.
5. Pour the honey-peanut mixture over the cheese dip and stir gently to combine all the flavors.
6. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes for enhanced flavor. Enjoy with crackers, bread, or fresh veggies!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	129
Total Fat	8g (11%)
Saturated Fat	4g (18%)
Cholesterol	18mg (6%)
Sodium	167mg (7%)
Total Carbohydrate	11g (4%)
Dietary Fiber	1g (2%)
Total Sugars	10g
Protein	4g (8%)
Vitamin C	0mg (1%)
Calcium	87mg (7%)
Iron	0mg (2%)
Potassium	65mg (1%)

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Tip: This recipe works great for scaling up or down. Adjust ingredient amounts accordingly, though cooking times and steps remain the same.

Origin and History

The origins of whipped feta with hot honey can be traced back to the culinary traditions of the Mediterranean, where cheese, honey, and olive oil are staples in many dishes. Feta cheese, in particular, has long been a symbol of Greek cuisine, known for its salty, tangy flavor and crumbly texture. The practice of pairing sweet and savory ingredients, such as honey and cheese, is rooted in ancient Mediterranean cooking. Hot honey, a more recent culinary trend, has emerged as a modern twist on this age-old combination, adding a spicy kick to the traditionally sweet topping. Today, whipped feta with hot honey is a popular dish for both casual gatherings and refined dinner parties alike, merging the old with the new.

Regional Features

Whipped feta with hot honey brings together regional ingredients from both Greece and other parts of the Mediterranean. The creamy texture of whipped feta, combined with the smoothness of neufchatel cheese or cream cheese, creates a dip thats easy to spread on bread or crackers. The addition of hot honey and roasted peanuts adds an interesting layer of flavor that reflects the regions love for combining savory and sweet elements in a single dish. While honey is common throughout the Mediterranean, different regions play with varying levels of spiciness and heat, offering diverse interpretations of this combination.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

While whipped feta is a common dish in Mediterranean cuisine, its pairing with hot honey sets it apart from other dips. Traditional feta dips often feature fresh herbs or yogurt, but the addition of honey, especially hot honey, introduces a distinctive flavor profile. In comparison to dips like hummus or tzatziki, which are primarily savory and garlicky, whipped feta with hot honey offers a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and spicy elements. The creaminess of the cheese contrasts beautifully with the heat of the honey, offering a more adventurous take on classic Mediterranean flavors.

Where It Is Typically Served

Whipped feta with hot honey is a versatile appetizer or snack that is commonly served at gatherings, particularly in Mediterranean-inspired cuisines. Its often found on the menu at upscale restaurants, wine bars, and tapas-style eateries. In home cooking, its a popular choice for parties, served alongside pita chips, tortilla chips, fresh bread, or vegetables for dipping. It also works well as a side dish or a unique topping for grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even as a spread for sandwiches and wraps. Its simplicity and ability to pair with a wide range of foods make it a crowd-pleasing option for both casual and formal occasions.

Interesting Facts

• Feta cheese is one of the oldest cheeses in the world, dating back over 2,000 years to ancient Greece.
• The combination of hot honey with cheese has gained significant popularity in recent years, especially among foodies who enjoy experimenting with contrasting flavors.
• Hot honey, often made by infusing honey with chili peppers or hot sauce, is a trend that began in the United States and quickly spread to Europe.
• In Greek cuisine, honey is often drizzled over cheese dishes, but the use of hot honey creates a more complex flavor experience.

Conclusion

Whipped feta with hot honey is a delightful blend of the old and the new, representing the timeless appeal of Mediterranean flavors while embracing contemporary trends. The creamy, tangy feta and the sweet, spicy hot honey create a perfect balance, making this dish a unique and irresistible addition to any gathering. Whether served as a dip or spread, it is a testament to the versatility of cheese and the creativity of modern cooks.

FAQ about Whipped Feta with Hot Honey Recipe