Dips are a fantastic way to elevate any meal or gathering, and Roasted Pepper & Carrot Feta Dip is no exception.
This delicious and versatile dip combines the smoky sweetness of roasted red bell peppers and carrots with the tangy creaminess of feta cheese.
Perfect for parties, as a snack, or even a spread on sandwiches, this dip is sure to be a hit.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to create this delightful dish, providing tips and tricks along the way to ensure your dip turns out perfectly every time.
Ingredients
- 2 red bell peppers, deseeded and sliced in half
- 3 large carrots, cut into a few pieces
- 1 head of garlic
- Olive oil & salt
- 1 15 oz can white beans
- 7 oz feta cheese
- Juice from 1 1/2 large lemons (~1/4 cup)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 3/4 tsp red pepper flakes
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
This temperature is perfect for roasting the vegetables, allowing them to caramelize and develop their natural sweetness.
Next, prepare the red bell peppers by slicing them in half and removing the seeds.
This will help them cook evenly and make it easier to remove the skin later.
Cut the carrots into a few large pieces to ensure they roast evenly with the peppers.
For the garlic, slice the top off the head, exposing the cloves.
This will allow the garlic to roast beautifully, becoming soft and spreadable, adding depth and flavor to the dip.
Step 2: Roast the Vegetables
Place the prepared bell peppers, carrots, and garlic on a baking sheet.
Drizzle them generously with olive oil and season with a pinch of salt.
The olive oil helps the vegetables roast evenly and enhances their flavors.
Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
The carrots should be fork-tender, and the peppers should be nicely charred and soft.
If the peppers are done before the carrots, you can remove them from the oven and let the carrots continue roasting.
Step 3: Peel the Peppers
Once the vegetables are roasted, cover the peppers with aluminum foil for about 10 minutes.
This step is crucial as it helps steam the peppers, making it easier to peel off the skin.
After 10 minutes, peel off the skin from the peppers and discard it.
The peppers should be soft and slightly smoky, adding a wonderful depth of flavor to the dip.
Step 4: Blend the Ingredients
Now that your vegetables are roasted and prepped, it’s time to bring everything together.
In a blender or food processor, add the roasted peppers, carrots, and garlic.
Include the white beans, which will add creaminess and body to the dip.
Crumble in the feta cheese for that tangy, salty flavor that pairs so well with the sweet roasted vegetables.
Next, squeeze in the juice from 1 1/2 large lemons.
The acidity of the lemon juice brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the dip.
Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to help create a smooth texture, and season with 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt, 2 teaspoons of smoked paprika, and 3/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes.
These spices add warmth and a subtle kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Step 5: Blend Until Smooth
Blend all the ingredients together until the mixture is completely smooth.
Depending on the power of your blender or food processor, you may need to stop and scrape down the sides a few times to ensure everything is evenly blended.
The final dip should be creamy and well-incorporated, with no large chunks remaining.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the smooth dip to a serving bowl.
For an extra touch of flavor and presentation, drizzle the top with a little olive oil and sprinkle with fresh parsley and a pinch of smoked paprika.
These garnishes not only enhance the look of the dip but also add a final burst of flavor.
Serve the dip with warm pita or naan bread, crunchy vegetables, or your favorite crackers.
This Roasted Pepper & Carrot Feta Dip is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual get-together, a game day snack, or even as part of a more elaborate spread.
Additional Tips and Variations
- Make it Ahead: This dip can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld and improve as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.
- Spice it Up: If you like your dips with a bit more heat, feel free to add extra red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or dill can add a burst of freshness to the dip. Stir them in after blending for a pop of color and flavor.
- Try Different Beans: While white beans provide a creamy base, you can experiment with other beans like chickpeas or cannellini beans for a different texture and flavor.
Conclusion
This Roasted Pepper & Carrot Feta Dip is a delightful and versatile recipe that’s sure to become a favorite.
The combination of roasted vegetables, creamy feta, and aromatic spices creates a dip that’s both flavorful and healthy.
Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it as a snack, this dip is easy to make and always a hit.
Give it a try and see how it can transform your next meal or gathering. Enjoy!