PAPRIKA DIP WITH FETA (DIPPING SAUCE)

This paprika dip with feta (dipping sauce) is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. It is a true crowd-pleaser, packed with the goodness of roasted red capsicums, creamy feta cheese, and smoked paprika. Whether hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this dip is an easy and delicious addition to any menu.

It's party time 🥳 🌶️

Jump to:

• PAPRIKA DIP
• OTHER APPETIZER RECIPES THAT YOU WILL LIKE
• 💛 HERE'S WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS PAPRIKA FETA DIP
• HOW DO I MAKE THIS DIP VEGAN?
• INGREDIENTS NEEDED AND SUBSTITUTIONS
• WHAT CAN I SERVE PAPRIKA DIP WITH?
• JARRED PEPPERS VS FRESHLY ROASTED PEPPERS
• HOW TO MAKE PAPRIKA DIP WITH FETA
• TIPS AND TRICKS
• ❓FAQS
• I don't have a food processor.
• MAKE-AHEAD AND STORAGE

PAPRIKA DIP

This Greek-inspired dip is your ticket to an unforgettable snacking experience.

If you're a fan of bold, vibrant flavors, you're in for a treat!

Perfect for an appetizer, movie night, or solo indulgence. You could even add it to cooked pasta! It will leave you craving more.

OTHER APPETIZER RECIPES THAT YOU WILL LIKE

• Dairy-Free Dip with Onions

• Savory Whipped Tofu

• Fried Pickle Dip

💛 HERE'S WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS PAPRIKA FETA DIP

• Sensational Flavors: The Paprika Dip is a blend of smoky roasted red capsicums, creamy feta cheese, and spices.

• Easy Ingredients: You only need five ingredients.

• A Feast for the Eyes: Beyond its incredible taste, the Paprika Dip is a feast for the eyes. The vibrant colors of the roasted capsicums, the creamy texture, and fresh basil make this dip the star of the show.

HOW DO I MAKE THIS DIP VEGAN?

To make this recipe vegan, replace the feta cheese with vegan feta cheese or cashew-based cheese. 😊

INGREDIENTS NEEDED AND SUBSTITUTIONS

Note: Please scroll to the full printable recipe card at the bottom for ingredient quantities and the method.

FETA CHEESE: You can swap this for vegan feta cheese if vegan.

RED PEPPERS: Fresh peppers (also known as bell peppers or capsicums) are roasted. You can also use jarred peppers.

EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL:

LEMON JUICE: fresh is best.

SMOKED PAPRIKA

WHAT CAN I SERVE PAPRIKA DIP WITH?

1. Crusty Bread:
   • Sliced baguette, sourdough, or ciabatta are excellent choices.
2. Pita Bread or Chips:
   • Toasted or fresh pita bread cut into triangles or pita chips add a delightful Middle Eastern touch. They are sturdy enough to scoop up the dip.
3. Vegetable Sticks:
   • Serve an array of colorful vegetable sticks such as carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes.
4. Tortilla Chips:
   • Corn or multigrain tortilla chips bring a good crunch and can withstand the thickness of the Paprika Dip.
5. Crisp Crackers:
   • Choose your favorite type of crisp crackers, whether it's plain, whole grain, or seeded. Their light and crispy texture complements the creamy dip.
6. Breadsticks:
   • Grissini or other thin breadsticks are an elegant option for dipping. Their slender shape allows for easy scooping of the dip.
7. Cheese Platter:
   • Arrange a cheese platter with assorted cheeses like brie, gouda, or goat cheese. The Paprika Dip adds an extra layer of flavor to the cheese-tasting experience.
8. Roasted Vegetables:
   • Roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, artichokes, eggplant, or asparagus, can be served warm or at room temperature.

JARRED PEPPERS VS FRESHLY ROASTED PEPPERS

• Flavor Preference: Freshly roasted peppers are the way to go if you prefer a more intense, smoky flavor.
• Convenience: Jarred peppers provide a quick and convenient option if you're short on time.
• Texture: If you enjoy a chunkier texture in your dip, you might prefer freshly roasted peppers.

In summary, both options have their merits, and the choice depends on your preferences, time constraints, and the overall flavor profile you want to achieve in your Paprika Dip.

HOW TO MAKE PAPRIKA DIP WITH FETA

Step 1: Roasting the Red Capsicums

Set the Grill to 200 ℃ / 425 ℉. On a lined baking pan, add the freshly chopped peppers. Drizzle over 1 teaspoon of olive oil.

Sprinkle over the smoked paprika and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss the peppers to ensure they are evenly coated in the olive oil and spice.

Grill for 10-15 minutes or until soft. Remove and allow to cool slightly.

Step 2: Blending the Base

In a food processor, combine the roasted red capsicums, feta cheese (add paprika if using jarred peppers), extra virgin olive oil, and lemon juice. If olive oil is left on the roasting pan, then chuck that into the blender, too! Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning to your liking.

Step 3: Presentation

Transfer the dip to a serving bowl. To enhance the visual appeal, crumble some extra feta cheese on top, sprinkle chili flakes for a hint of heat, and garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Step 4: Serving Suggestions

Serve the Roasted Red Pepper Paprika Dip with slices of crusty bread, such as sourdough or baguette. The combination of the creamy dip and the crispy bread creates a delightful texture and flavor contrast.

TIPS AND TRICKS

1. Select Quality Ingredients:
   • Choose fresh, vibrant red capsicums for roasting. The quality of these peppers will significantly impact the dip's overall flavor.
   • Opt for a good-quality feta cheese, as it contributes creaminess and tang to the dip.
2. Roasting Capsicums:
   • When roasting the red capsicums, make sure to turn them regularly to ensure even charring.
   • Allow the roasted capsicums to steam in a covered bowl for about 10 minutes after roasting. This makes it easier to peel off the skin.
3. Balancing Flavors:
   • Taste the dip as you blend, and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. If you like it spicier, add more chili flakes; if it needs more acidity, a bit of extra lemon juice can do wonders.
4. Texture Matters:
   • If you prefer a chunkier dip, pulse the ingredients in the food processor rather than blending continuously. This maintains a more textured consistency.
5. Chill Before Serving:
   • If you have time, allow the finished dip to chill in the refrigerator before serving. This helps the flavors meld and enhances the overall taste.
6. Presentation Style:
   • Play with the presentation to make the dip visually appealing. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, a sprinkle of paprika, or a garnish of fresh herbs can add that final touch.
7. Experiment with Variations:
   • Feel free to get creative with the recipe. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat or incorporate roasted garlic for a deeper flavor.

❓FAQS

What's the difference between paprika and smoked paprika?

While both paprika and smoked paprika start with dried peppers, the key difference is that smoked paprika undergoes a smoking process, which gives it a unique smoky taste.

Can I use ground paprika instead of smoked paprika?

Yes, you can use ground paprika as a substitute for smoked paprika in your Paprika Dip. However, remember that ground paprika does not have the smoky flavor that smoked paprika provides. Smoked paprika is made from peppers that are smoke-dried, giving it a distinct smokiness that regular ground paprika lacks.

What can I use if I don't have smoked paprika?

Sweet Paprika:

The most straightforward substitute is sweet paprika. It won't have the smoky undertones, but it will still provide a rich color and a mild, sweet flavor to the dip.

Chipotle Powder:

Chipotle powder is made from smoked and dried jalapeños, imparting a smoky flavor. Use it sparingly, as it can be quite potent. Add a little at a time until you achieve the desired level of smokiness.

I don't have a food processor.

If you don't have a food processor, you can still make the Paprika Dip using alternative kitchen tools.

1. Chop the Roasted Capsicums:
   • After roasting the red capsicums, chop them into smaller pieces. The smaller the pieces, the easier they will be to blend manually.
2. Prepare Feta Cheese:
   • If using a block of feta or cashew-based cheese, crumble it into small pieces using a fork or your hands. This will make it easier to incorporate into the dip.
3. Mixing the Ingredients:
   • Combine the chopped roasted capsicums, crumbled feta or cashew-based cheese, paprika, extra virgin olive oil, vegan, and lemon juice in a large mixing bowl.
4. Manual Blending:
   • Use an immersion blender directly in the mixing bowl to blend the ingredients until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. If you don't have an immersion blender, use a fork, working in small batches until the dip is smooth. Remember that if you are making it by hand, it won't be as smooth as a blender will make it, and you will have a chunkier dip that will still taste delicious.
5. Adjust Seasoning:
   • Taste the dip and adjust the seasoning according to your preferences. Add more lemon juice, salt, or spices if needed.

MAKE-AHEAD AND STORAGE

MAKE-AHEAD: Prepare the dip a day in advance to save time on the day you plan to serve it. This allows the flavors to develop even more.

STORAGE: If you have leftovers, store the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for a few days, and the flavors often intensify over time.

Did you make this recipe? Let me know what you think by leaving a ★★★★★ star rating & comment below. It genuinely helps me & I really appreciate your support! Nikki 💚

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