Name: Honey Whipped Feta with Garlic Herb Roasted Olives.
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 cups mixed olives (pitted); 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil; 6 cloves garlic (smashed); 1 shallot (quartered); 1 lemon (quartered); 2 sprigs fresh thyme; 2 sprigs fresh oregano; Chili flakes (to taste); 1 cup crumbled feta cheese ((8 ounces)); 3 ounces cream cheese (at room temperature); 2-3 tablespoons honey; Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

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If you’re looking for a delectable appetizer that combines creamy, tangy, and savory flavors, look no further than Honey Whipped Feta with Garlic Herb Roasted Olives. This dish is not only a feast for the palate but also a visual delight. The beautiful contrast of creamy feta and colorful roasted olives makes it a perfect centerpiece for any gathering, be it a casual brunch or an elegant dinner party. Pair it with crusty bread or fresh vegetables for dipping, and you have a winning combination that will leave your guests asking for the recipe!

Why It Works Every Time

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the harmony of flavors. The creamy, whipped feta provides a rich base, while the roasted olives infused with garlic and herbs add depth and a touch of earthiness. The drizzle of honey ties everything together, balancing the saltiness of the feta and the olives with a hint of sweetness. Each bite is an explosion of flavor, making it a standout dish that can be served year-round.

What You’ll Gather

2 cups mixed olives, pitted
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
6 cloves garlic, smashed
1 shallot, quartered
1 lemon, quartered
2 sprigs fresh thyme
2 sprigs fresh oregano
Chili flakes, to taste
1 cup (8 ounces) crumbled feta cheese
3 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
2-3 tablespoons honey
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Toolbox for This Recipe

Mixing bowl – For combining the whipped feta and cream cheese.
Roasting pan – To roast the olives and aromatics.
Food processor or mixer – To whip the feta and cream cheese until smooth.
Spatula – For mixing and serving.
Baking sheet – A flat surface for the roasting process.

How to Prepare Honey Whipped Feta with Garlic Herb Roasted Olives.

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the olives and aromatics roast perfectly, melding their flavors together.

Step 2: Prepare the olives

In a large mixing bowl, combine the pitted mixed olives, smashed garlic, quartered shallot, quartered lemon, fresh thyme, fresh oregano, and a pinch of chili flakes. Drizzle with the extra virgin olive oil, ensuring everything is well-coated.

Step 3: Roast the mixture

Spread the olive mixture evenly in a roasting pan. Place in the preheated oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes, or until the olives are heated through and slightly blistered, and the garlic is fragrant and golden.

Step 4: Whip the feta

While the olives are roasting, it’s time to prepare the whipped feta. In a food processor, combine the crumbled feta cheese and softened cream cheese. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You may need to scrape down the sides a couple of times to ensure everything is well incorporated.

Step 5: Sweeten it up

Add 2-3 tablespoons of honey to the whipped feta mixture. Blend again until the honey is fully incorporated, and the mixture is creamy and sweetened to your liking. Taste and season with freshly ground black pepper as desired.

Step 6: Assemble the dish

Once the olives are roasted to perfection, remove them from the oven. In a serving dish, spread the honey whipped feta generously as a base. Top it with the roasted olives and all the delicious aromatics from the pan. Drizzle some additional honey over the top for a lovely finish.

Step 7: Garnish and serve

Feel free to garnish with extra fresh herbs or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a bit of heat. Serve with your favorite dippers, such as crusty bread, pita chips, or fresh vegetable sticks.

Spring–Summer–Fall–Winter Ideas

Spring: Pair with fresh asparagus and radishes for a vibrant spring platter.
Summer: Serve chilled with a side of grilled vegetables and cold rosé wine.
Fall: Incorporate seasonal squash and serve with warm, baked baguette slices.
Winter: Add to a cozy holiday cheese board with nuts and dried fruits.

Pro Tips & Notes

For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of milk or cream to the feta while blending.
Feel free to experiment with different types of olives for varied flavors.
Let the roasted olives cool slightly before serving for the best flavor experience.
This dish can be made in advance; just store the whipped feta and olives separately and assemble before serving.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

You can prepare the honey whipped feta and roasted olives ahead of time, making this a perfect dish for entertaining. The whipped feta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The roasted olives can also be made a day in advance; just reheat them in the oven before serving. This way, you can enjoy the time with your guests while still serving a delicious appetizer!

Because You Liked This

Whipped Feta Dip – A delightful take on creamy feta.
Easy Roasted Veggies – Perfect for pairing with your feta!
Creamy Vegan Basil Pesto – A fresh addition to any appetizer table.

Serve & Enjoy

Once everything is beautifully arranged and garnished, gather your friends and family around and enjoy this crowd-pleasing appetizer. The combination of Honey Whipped Feta with Garlic Herb Roasted Olives is sure to impress with its contrasting flavors and lovely presentation. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering, this dish will be the star of the show. Don’t forget to share your experience and variations with others, as this recipe is versatile and can be tailored to fit any occasion. Enjoy every creamy, savory, and sweet bite!