Are you ready to explore some delicious Mediterranean flavors? Well, you're in luck because we've got an Easy Tirokafteri Recipe (Greek Spicy Feta Dip). This creamy blend of feta, roasted red peppers, and Greek yogurt is super yum and really simple to make. Grab your ingredients and create this tasty dip that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Tirokafteri, also known as spicy feta dip, is a traditional Greek appetizer known for its creamy texture and bold flavor. Originating from the Greek islands, this dish combines crumbled feta cheese with roasted red peppers, Greek yogurt, and a hint of garlic and spices. It's typically served as a mezze alongside warm pita bread or crisp vegetables, making it perfect for sharing or feasting solo.
Why we love this recipe:
- Tasty: Creamy and flavorful dip perfect for any occasion.
- Easy: Quick to prepare, ideal for busy families.
If you like this dip recipe, you may also love our Chipotle Corn Salsa or our Cowboy Caviar Dip.
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What Ingredients Will You Need?
- Feta cheese: Creamy and tangy, crumbled feta adds richness to the dip.
- Greek yogurt: Thick and creamy, Greek yogurt provides a smooth texture and a hint of tanginess.
- Olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil lends richness and depth of flavor to the dip.
- Roasted red peppers: Sweet and smoky, roasted red peppers add a delicious depth of flavor.
- Garlic: Pungent and aromatic, minced garlic enhances the savory profile of the dip.
- Lemon juice: Fresh and zesty, lemon juice brightens the flavors of the dip.
- Paprika: Adds a warm, smoky flavor and a vibrant red color to the dip.
- Cayenne pepper (adjust to taste): Provides a spicy kick, adjust according to your preference for heat.
Note: Refer to the recipe card below for exact quantities.
Instructions
How to Make this Easy Tirokafteri Recipe: Greek Spicy Feta Dip
STEP ONE: Blend Ingredients
Place crumbled feta cheese, Greek yogurt, roasted red peppers, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, and cayenne pepper in a food processor.
STEP TWO: Process and Emulsify
Pulse the ingredients until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides of the food processor as needed for even mixing. Slowly drizzle the olive oil into the feed tube while the food processor is running.
STEP THREE: Taste and Adjust
Taste the dip and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more paprika or cayenne pepper for extra flavor.
STEP FOUR: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the tirokafteri to a serving bowl, drizzle with a little extra olive oil, and garnish with crumbled feta, paprika, and Kalamata olives. Serve with warm pita bread or your favorite vegetables.
What Are Some Good Substitutions?
- Roasted Red Peppers: Try sun-dried tomatoes or grilled eggplant.
- Greek Yogurt: Swap with sour cream or add a little cream cheese for a richer dip.
- Cayenne: Use red pepper flakes or red chili pepper as an alternative.
How Can You Change This Recipe Up?
- Method: Use a large mixing bowl and potato masher if you do not have a food processor. Mix until smooth.
- Flavor: Add fresh herbs like oregano or dill.
- Spice: Increase the heat with extra cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
What Kitchen Equipment Is Best?
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- Food processor or Mixing bowl and Potato Masher
- Serving Bowl
- Measuring Spoons and Cups
How Should You Store This?
Store leftover tirokafteri in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Note: Refer to Top Tips below for more storage and reheating tips.
What Are Some Expert Tips?
When blending the ingredients, drizzle the olive oil slowly into the mixture while the food processor is running, or while whisking vigorously by hand. This helps emulsify the oil with the other ingredients, creating a smooth and creamy Tirokafteri.
More Recipes You'll Love ♥️
Have Leftover Ingredients?
- Try this leftover feta in this Baby Heirloom Tomato Salad with Feta.
- Excess roasted red peppers can be served in this Tuscan Salad.
Need Something To Pair This With?
- Try this Greek Style Lemon Chicken with Roasted Potatoes
- This Mediterranean Salad is a crowd pleaser.
- Learn How to Make the Best Village Salad
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FAQ
Tirokafteri originates from Greece, particularly from the regions of Macedonia and Thrace. It is a traditional Greek appetizer known for its creamy texture and spicy kick.
Tirokafteri is pronounced as tee-roh-kah-FTEH-ree
Tirokafteri is a Greek word that translates to "spicy cheese." It refers to the spicy feta dip that is the star of this dish.
Yes, you can prepare the dip in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
The level of spiciness can be adjusted according to your preference by adding or reducing the amount of cayenne pepper used.
📖 Recipe
Spicy Feta Dip
Equipment
- Food processor or Mixing bowl and Potato Masher
- Serving Bowl
- Measuring Spoons and Cups
Ingredients
- 16 ounces feta cheese
- ¾ cup Greek yogurt whole milk, plain
- ⅓ cup olive oil reserve some to drizzle over the top of dip
- 8 ounce jar roasted red peppers drained
- 2-3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
Garnish
- paprika
- Kalamata olives
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine crumbled feta, Greek yogurt, roasted red peppers, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
- Slowly drizzle the olive oil into the food processor through the feed tube while it is running, ensuring a steady and gradual stream for emulsification.
- Process until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed for even blending.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more cayenne pepper for extra heat if desired.
- Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl or plate, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Drizzle some olive oil over the top of the dip.
- Garnish with small crumbled feta, a sprinkle of paprika, and Kalamata olives.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
- Roasted Red Peppers: Try sun-dried tomatoes or grilled eggplant.
- Greek Yogurt: Swap with sour cream or add a little cream cheese for a richer dip.
- Cayenne: Use red pepper flakes or red chili pepper as an alternative.
Nutrition
Our Tirokafteri recipe offers a taste of Greece that's perfect for any occasion. Make this when you're entertaining guests, enjoying a family meal, or simply craving a flavorful snack. Give it a try today!
Important Food Safety Tips
Ensure all ingredients are fresh and properly stored to maintain food safety standards.
- Wash hands and create a clean work area.
- Rinse fresh produce thoroughly.
- Do not use the same cutting board or utensils on cooked food or produce, that previously touched raw meat or seafood.
- Do not leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods.
See more guidelines at USDA.gov
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