Description
A delightfully creamy and tangy whipped feta dip topped with a sweet-tart cranberry compote and crunchy pistachios, perfect for holiday appetizers or any festive gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Cranberry Compote
- 2 cups frozen or fresh cranberries
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1/8 tsp nutmeg
Whipped Feta Dip
- 4 oz block feta cheese in brine, drained
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Splash of water (for thinning)
Toppings
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
- 1–2 tbsp honey to drizzle
- Fresh thyme (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Cranberries: In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, maple syrup, orange juice, and nutmeg. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 6–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens into a jam-like consistency. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
- Make the Whipped Feta: Place the drained feta cheese, cottage cheese, olive oil, and a splash of water into a food processor. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If you don’t have a food processor, an immersion blender works well too.
- Assemble the Dip: Spread the whipped feta mixture evenly in a shallow serving bowl. Spoon the cooled cranberry compote over the top, ensuring an even layer. Sprinkle the chopped pistachios on top, drizzle generously with honey, and garnish with fresh thyme if desired.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen cranberries depending on availability; frozen just need a slightly longer cooking time.
- Adjust the honey drizzle to your preferred sweetness.
- This dip can be made a few hours ahead and refrigerated; bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor.
- For a vegan alternative, substitute feta and cottage cheese with plant-based cream cheese and tofu blended with nutritional yeast.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dip
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: whipped feta dip, cranberry dip, holiday appetizer, feta dip, festive dip, cranberry compote, easy dip recipe
