Winter Whipped Feta

This recipe is a great appetizer for any holiday event you have during the winter season. I love the bright and bold flavors it brings to the table while still being light enough to not ruin your appetite for the main event!

Winter Whipped Feta

Makes 8 servings

Ingredients:

Dip

• 8oz block feta cheese

• 1/4 cup non-fat Greek yogurt

• 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped

• Pinch of black pepper

• 1 whole wheat baguette, sliced

Cranberry Compote

• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries

• 2 Tbsp water

• 1 Tbsp maple syrup (or honey)

• 1/2 tsp orange zest

Directions:

1. In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, water, maple syrup, and orange zest. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the cranberries pop and the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let cool.

2. In a food processor or blender, combine the feta, Greek yogurt, 1 Tbsp olive oil, rosemary, and pepper. Process until completely smooth and creamy.

3. Spread the whipped feta into a shallow serving dish. Spoon the cooled cranberry compote over the center of the dip. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil and garnish with a few sprigs of fresh rosemary.

4. Serve with toasted whole wheat crostini, crackers, or vegetable sticks.

Modification Suggestions:

Love this recipe and want to enjoy it in a different season? Cranberries tend to be a very seasonal flavor for most of us. Try making this compote in the spring with blueberries and lemon zest. This recipe could also be adapted for fall with figs and cardamom.