Marinated Chickpeas with Whipped Feta Recipe

Introduction

Marinated Chickpeas with Whipped Feta is a vibrant and creamy appetizer that’s perfect for sharing. The tangy whipped feta pairs beautifully with spiced, marinated chickpeas, creating a dish full of flavor and texture. It’s an easy recipe that brings a Mediterranean touch to your table.

Ingredients

• 2 cans (15 ounces each) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 block (8 ounces) feta cheese
• 1/2 block (4 ounces) cream cheese
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Zest of 1/2 lemon
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained and rinsed chickpeas.
2. Step 2: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, dried oregano, smoked paprika, cilantro, salt, and black pepper.
3. Step 3: Pour the olive oil mixture over the chickpeas, and toss to coat them evenly. Let the chickpeas marinate while you prepare the whipped feta to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Step 4: In a food processor, add the feta cheese, cream cheese, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon zest, and honey.
5. Step 5: Blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, add a little water to reach your desired consistency.
6. Step 6: Taste the whipped feta and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more honey or lemon zest to suit your preference.
7. Step 7: To serve, spread a generous layer of whipped feta on a platter or individual plates.
8. Step 8: Spoon the marinated chickpeas on top of the whipped feta.
9. Step 9: Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
10. Step 10: Optionally, drizzle extra olive oil and sprinkle additional smoked paprika or black pepper for enhanced flavor.
11. Step 11: Serve with pita bread, crackers, naan, or fresh vegetables for dipping.

Tips & Variations

• For an extra smoky flavor, toast the dried oregano lightly before mixing it with the olive oil.
• Substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream for a tangier whipped feta.
• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade if you prefer more heat.
• If you don’t have a food processor, whip the feta mixture by hand using a handheld mixer for a rustic texture.

Storage

Store leftover marinated chickpeas and whipped feta separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving again, stir the chickpeas and gently re-whip the feta if needed. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be served cold or at room temperature. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried oregano?

Yes, fresh oregano can be used. Use about one tablespoon finely chopped fresh oregano in place of one teaspoon dried for a fresher flavor.

Is this recipe vegan or can it be made vegan?

This recipe is not vegan due to the feta and cream cheese. To make a vegan version, try substituting the cheeses with plant-based alternatives like vegan feta and cream cheese.

Marinated Chickpeas with Whipped Feta Recipe

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This Marinated Chickpeas with Whipped Feta recipe offers a vibrant, creamy, and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired appetizer or side dish. The chickpeas are tossed in a herb and spice-infused olive oil marinade, while the whipped feta is luxuriously smooth, tangy, and slightly sweetened with honey and lemon zest. Together, they create a deliciously balanced dish perfect for serving with pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables.

• Author: Dana
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Marinated Chickpeas

• 2 cans (15 ounces each) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Whipped Feta

• 1 block (8 ounces) feta cheese
• 1/2 block (4 ounces) cream cheese
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Zest of 1/2 lemon
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 cup water (adjust as needed)

Instructions

1. Combine Chickpeas: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained and rinsed chickpeas to prepare for marination.
2. Whisk Marinade: In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, dried oregano, smoked paprika, chopped cilantro, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
3. Marinate Chickpeas: Pour the olive oil mixture over the chickpeas and toss thoroughly to coat them evenly. Allow the chickpeas to marinate so the flavors blend well while you prepare the whipped feta.
4. Prepare Whipped Feta: In a food processor, add the block of feta cheese, cream cheese, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon zest, and honey.
5. Blend Ingredients: Blend until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. If the consistency is too thick, gradually add water until the desired texture is achieved.
6. Season Whipped Feta: Taste and adjust the flavors by adding more honey or lemon zest if preferred, ensuring a perfect balance of tangy and sweet.
7. Assemble Dish: Spread a generous layer of whipped feta on a serving platter or individual plates.
8. Top with Chickpeas: Spoon the marinated chickpeas over the whipped feta layer evenly.
9. Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro and crushed red pepper flakes on top for a fresh and mildly spicy finish.
10. Final Touches: Optionally drizzle extra olive oil and sprinkle additional smoked paprika or black pepper for enhanced flavor complexity.
11. Serve: Serve immediately as a flavorful appetizer or side dish accompanied by pita bread, crackers, naan, or fresh vegetables for dipping.

Notes

• For a spicier version, add more crushed red pepper flakes to the garnish.
• If you prefer a vegan option, substitute the feta, cream cheese, and Greek yogurt with plant-based alternatives.
• Marinating the chickpeas for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavor absorption but can be done longer if desired.
• Adjust the water in the whipped feta blend to reach your preferred consistency, whether thicker for spreading or looser for dipping.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days for best freshness.

Keywords: marinated chickpeas, whipped feta, Mediterranean appetizer, easy vegetarian recipe, healthy dips, Greek yogurt dip, feta cheese spread, chickpea salad