Save Experience a masterful blend of Mediterranean flavors with these Crostini with Whipped Feta. This appetizer strikes the perfect balance between the salty tang of premium feta and the lingering heat of spicy hot honey. Each bite offers a satisfying contrast of textures, from the crunch of garlic-rubbed toasted baguette to the velvety smoothness of the whipped cheese topping.
Save Whether you are hosting an elegant dinner party or looking for a sophisticated snack, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser. The secret to its success is the whipped feta—a technique that transforms crumbly cheese into a light, airy spread that serves as the perfect canvas for the sweet heat of hot honey and red pepper flakes.
Ingredients
- For the Crostini: 1 baguette, sliced into 16 ½-inch pieces; 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 garlic clove, halved.
- For the Whipped Feta: 200 g (7 oz) feta cheese, crumbled; 60 g (¼ cup) cream cheese, softened; 2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp lemon zest; 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; freshly ground black pepper, to taste.
- For Topping: 3 tbsp hot honey (store-bought or homemade); ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes; Fresh herbs (such as mint, basil, or parsley), optional, for garnish.
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet. Brush both sides with olive oil.
- Step 2
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp. Immediately rub the cut side of the garlic clove over each slice while warm. Set aside.
- Step 3
- In a food processor, combine feta, cream cheese, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, and olive oil. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. Season with black pepper.
- Step 4
- Spread whipped feta generously over each crostini.
- Step 5
- Drizzle with hot honey and sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
- Step 6
- Serve immediately and enjoy while the crostini are crisp.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the smoothest whipped feta, ensure your cream cheese is fully softened at room temperature before blending. If you don't have a food processor, a high-powered blender will also work. To get the most garlic flavor, rub the clove firmly onto the bread while it is still steaming hot from the oven.
Varianten und Anpassungen
If you cannot find store-bought hot honey, you can easily make it by warming 3 tbsp of honey with ½ tsp chili flakes over low heat for 2–3 minutes. For extra freshness and flavor, consider adding roasted cherry tomatoes or thin slices of cucumber on top of the feta before drizzling the honey.
Serviervorschläge
To complete the Mediterranean experience, pair these crostini with a crisp, chilled white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc. The wine's acidity cuts through the richness of the cheese and complements the citrus notes of the lemon zest. Serve these on a wooden board for a rustic yet beautiful presentation.
Save With its vibrant appearance and explosion of flavors, this Whipped Feta Crostini is bound to become a staple in your appetizer rotation. It is a simple yet sophisticated way to bring the bright, bold tastes of the Mediterranean to your table. Enjoy the perfect crunch!
Recipe Guide
- → How do I make the whipped feta topping smooth?
Blend feta, cream cheese, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, and olive oil in a food processor until completely creamy without lumps.
- → Can I prepare the crostini ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the baguette slices in advance and store them in an airtight container to maintain crispness. Add the topping just before serving.
- → What can I use instead of hot honey?
Homemade hot honey can be made by warming honey with chili flakes. Alternatively, regular honey or a drizzle of chili oil works well for a similar flavor profile.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Keep any leftovers refrigerated in a sealed container. To retain crispness, store toppings separately from crostini.
- → What herbs complement this dish best?
Fresh mint, basil, or parsley are excellent choices, adding a fresh and aromatic finish to the crostini.