Description
This Spicy Feta Dip, also known as Tirokafteri, is a vibrant and flavorful Greek appetizer featuring roasted red bell peppers blended with creamy feta cheese, garlic, and a kick of cayenne pepper. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s perfect for serving with warm pita bread or fresh vegetables and garnished with fresh parsley and olives for an authentic Mediterranean touch.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 large red bell peppers
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 block (8-ounce) feta cheese, broken into chunks plus 1-2 tablespoons crumbled for garnish
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling over the dip
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, plus more for garnish and to taste
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For Garnish and Serving
- Crushed red pepper flakes for garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
- Kalamata olives (for serving)
- Naan or pita bread, cut into wedges (for serving)
- Cut vegetables such as bell pepper, carrot, or celery sticks (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Chop the garlic and break the feta cheese into chunks. Wash and core the red bell peppers.
- Combine in Food Processor: Place the red bell peppers, chopped garlic, lemon juice, feta chunks, olive oil, and cayenne pepper into the bowl of a food processor.
- Process Mixture: Blend the mixture until it becomes fairly smooth but still has some small pieces of feta for texture.
- Season to Taste: Taste the dip and add additional cayenne pepper if you desire more heat. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your preference, then give it a quick pulse to combine.
- Transfer and Garnish: Spoon the dip into a serving bowl. Garnish with extra cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, crumbled feta cheese, chopped fresh parsley, and drizzle a bit of olive oil over the top.
- Serve: Present the dip alongside naan or pita bread wedges and cut vegetables such as bell pepper, carrot, or celery sticks. Add Kalamata olives on the side for a complete platter.
Notes
- For an extra smoky flavor, you can roast the red bell peppers before blending.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper according to your spice tolerance.
- This dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Adding a splash of water or extra olive oil can help if the dip is too thick.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Greek
