If you’re looking for a dish that’s both vibrant and indulgently creamy, the Whipped Feta with Roasted Beets & Pistachios Recipe is an absolute must-try. This delightful blend pairs the earthy sweetness of perfectly roasted beets with the tangy richness of whipped vegan feta, all crowned with crunchy pistachios and a drizzle of fragrant olive oil. It’s a celebration of textures and flavors that feels both luxurious and refreshingly simple, perfect for elevating any meal or snack time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet packed with purpose. Each component plays a vital role—roasted beets bring natural sweetness and a stunning splash of color, the whipped feta adds luscious creaminess with a tangy punch, and pistachios provide that much-loved crunch and nutty flair.
- 1 large beet (about 450 g), peeled and cut into 1–1.5 inch wedges: Choose firm, fresh beets for the best roasted sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1-2 tbsp avocado oil, for roasting: A neutral oil with a high smoke point perfect for roasting beets evenly without overpowering flavor.
- Salt and white pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning the beets delicately, enhancing their natural sweetness.
- 7 oz (200 g) non-dairy plain unsweetened yogurt: Look for thick varieties like Culina or Siggi’s to contribute smooth texture and a subtle tang.
- 7 oz (200 g) vegan feta cheese, at room temperature: Violife or Trader Joe’s vegan feta are excellent choices that whip up beautifully.
- 1/3 cup pistachios, lightly chopped: Adds delightful crunch and a burst of nutty flavor.
- Crushed pink peppercorns, to taste: For a slight fruity peppery note and eye-catching garnish.
- A drizzle of good olive oil: Use extra virgin for richness and a peppery finish.
- Optional: vegan honey or maple syrup: Just a touch to balance flavors with subtle sweetness.
- Optional: sumac or za’atar: Sprinkle for an exotic, citrusy, or herbal twist.
- Fluffy flatbread or pita, for dipping: Perfect for scooping up all the creamy goodness.
How to Make Whipped Feta with Roasted Beets & Pistachios Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Beets
Preheat your oven and toss the beet wedges gently with avocado oil, salt, and white pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet to ensure even roasting. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes, until the beets become tender and slightly caramelized around the edges. Allow them to cool just a bit so their natural sweetness truly shines through when combined with the feta.
Step 2: Prepare the Whipped Feta
While the beets roast, it’s time to create the star of the show—the whipped feta. Combine the vegan feta cheese and non-dairy yogurt in a food processor or blender. Whip until the texture is light, airy, and smooth. This creamy mixture will act as the perfect base, blending tanginess and richness for a luscious mouthfeel.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
Once the beets have cooled slightly, gently fold them into the whipped feta or arrange them artfully on top. Now sprinkle chopped pistachios and crushed pink peppercorns to add crunch and vibrant pops of color. Don’t forget the final flourish—a generous drizzle of your best olive oil, and if you’re feeling fancy, a hint of vegan honey or maple syrup plus a sprinkle of sumac or za’atar to deepen the flavor profile.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Serve this beautiful dish with warm, fluffy flatbread or pita for dipping. The combination of creamy whipped feta, earthy roasted beets, and crunchy pistachios is truly irresistible and makes for an elegant appetizer or a standout snack.
How to Serve Whipped Feta with Roasted Beets & Pistachios Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like mint, parsley, or dill bring a bright, refreshing finish to this dish. Adding a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a few pomegranate seeds can create delightful bursts of flavor and texture, making every bite even more exciting.
Side Dishes
This whipped feta creation pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or alongside grilled vegetables for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal. You can also serve it with charcuterie-style platters featuring olives, roasted nuts, and crusty bread.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering the whipped feta and roasted beets in a glass or clear bowl for a stunning parfait-style appetizer. Alternatively, spread it on toasted baguette slices and top with pistachios for handheld bites that are show-stoppers at any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dish keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen with time, though the texture of the whipped feta might firm up slightly—just give it a gentle stir before serving again.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for the whipped feta mixture as it can change texture upon thawing. However, roasted beets freeze well separately. Simply thaw and warm beets before serving alongside freshly whipped feta.
Reheating
If you wish to enjoy warm roasted beets, gently reheat them in a skillet or oven while keeping the whipped feta chilled for contrast. Avoid microwaving the feta directly to preserve its whipped texture.
FAQs
Can I use dairy feta instead of vegan feta?
Absolutely! Dairy feta will work well in this recipe and may offer a tangier flavor, but the key is to ensure it is soft enough to whip smoothly with the yogurt.
Is there a substitute for non-dairy yogurt?
If you don’t have non-dairy yogurt, Greek yogurt or sour cream can be used instead for a creamier, tangy whipped feta. Just keep in mind it will change the flavor profile slightly.
How can I roast beets faster?
Cutting beets into smaller wedges or even cubes reduces roasting time significantly. You can also microwave beets lightly before roasting to speed up the process without losing that roasted flavor.
What if I’m allergic to nuts? Can I omit pistachios?
Yes, you can omit pistachios or substitute with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for crunch and a nutty element that complements the whipped feta.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Definitely! Just swap the flatbread or pita for gluten-free options or serve the whipped feta and roasted beets alongside fresh vegetables for dipping.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try the Whipped Feta with Roasted Beets & Pistachios Recipe, it will quickly become one of your most cherished dishes to share and enjoy. Its creamy, tangy, crunchy, and sweet layers create a flavor adventure that’s surprisingly easy to pull off. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this gorgeous, delectable treat.
Print
Whipped Feta with Roasted Beets & Pistachios Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A vibrant and creamy vegan appetizer featuring roasted beet wedges paired with whipped non-dairy feta cheese, topped with crunchy pistachios and flavorful seasonings. Perfect served with fluffy flatbread or pita for a delightful, plant-based starter or snack.
Ingredients
For the Roasted Beets
- 1 large beet (about 450 g), peeled and cut into 1–1.5 inch wedges
- 1–2 tbsp avocado oil, for roasting
- Salt and white pepper, to taste
For the Whipped Feta
- 7 oz (200 g) non-dairy plain unsweetened yogurt (recommended: Culina or Siggi’s for thickness)
- 7 oz (200 g) vegan feta cheese, at room temperature (recommended: Violife or Trader Joe’s)
For Toppings
- 1/3 cup pistachios, lightly chopped
- Crushed pink peppercorns, to taste
- A drizzle of good olive oil
- Optional: vegan honey or maple syrup for a hint of sweetness
- Optional: sumac or za’atar for added flavor
For Serving
- Fluffy flatbread or pita, for dipping
Instructions
- Roast the Beets: Toss the peeled and cut beet wedges with avocado oil, salt, and white pepper until evenly coated. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the beets are fork-tender and slightly caramelized. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Whipped Feta: In a food processor or blender, combine the vegan feta cheese and non-dairy plain unsweetened yogurt. Blend until smooth and whipped, creating a creamy spreadable consistency. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Assemble the Dish: Spread a generous layer of the whipped vegan feta on a serving plate. Arrange the roasted beet wedges on top or alongside the whipped feta. Sprinkle the chopped pistachios and crushed pink peppercorns evenly over the top.
- Finishing Touches: Drizzle good quality olive oil over the assembled dish. If desired, add a light drizzle of vegan honey or maple syrup to introduce a subtle sweetness. Sprinkle sumac or za’atar for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve: Serve the whipped feta and roasted beets with fluffy flatbread or pita on the side for dipping. Enjoy this vibrant, creamy, and textured vegan appetizer warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- You can substitute avocado oil with olive oil if preferred for roasting the beets.
- Ensure vegan feta cheese is at room temperature before blending for a smoother texture.
- Feel free to use any nut or seed of choice instead of pistachios for toppings.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days but are best enjoyed fresh.
- For a gluten-free option, serve with gluten-free flatbread or vegetable sticks.
