Whipped feta w/Roasted beets and pistachios

Whipped feta with roasted beets and pistachios is a delightful appetizer or salad that combines the creamy and tangy flavor of whipped feta cheese with the earthy sweetness of roasted beets and the nutty crunch of pistachios. Here’s a simple recipe for this delicious dish:

Ingredients:

For the Whipped Feta:

• 8 ounces feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt or cream cheese
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Roasted Beets:

• 3-4 medium-sized beets, peeled and cut into bite-sized cubes
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Pistachio Topping:

• 1/4 cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped

For Garnish:

• Fresh basil or mint leaves (optional)

Instructions:

Roasting the Beets:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, toss the cubed beets with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season with salt and black pepper.
3. Spread the seasoned beets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast the beets in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized. You can test their doneness by inserting a fork; it should go in easily.
5. Remove the roasted beets from the oven and let them cool to room temperature.

Making the Whipped Feta:

1. In a food processor, combine the feta cheese, Greek yogurt (or cream cheese), minced garlic, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
2. Blend the mixture until it becomes smooth and creamy. If needed, you can add a bit more olive oil to reach your desired consistency.
3. Season the whipped feta with freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Assembly:

1. Spread the whipped feta on a serving platter or individual plates.
2. Arrange the roasted beet cubes on top of the whipped feta.
3. Sprinkle the chopped pistachios over the beets.
4. If desired, garnish with fresh basil or mint leaves for a pop of color and flavor.

Serve your whipped feta with roasted beets and pistachios as an appetizer or salad. The creamy feta, sweet beets, and crunchy pistachios create a delightful combination of flavors and textures that’s sure to impress your guests.