Mediterranean Whipped Feta & Olive Tapas Board
This vibrant tapas board features a creamy whipped feta dip, salty Kalamata olives, and optional fried or grilled halloumi, making it perfect for Mediterranean-style snacking or entertaining. Brightened with fresh herbs and lemon, this board is both visually appealing and bursting with flavor. Easy to assemble, it’s ideal for gatherings, casual nights, or as part of a mezze spread.
Total Time: ~15 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes (if frying/grilling halloumi)
Servings: 4–6
Ingredients
For the Whipped Feta Dip
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
2–3 tbsp Greek yogurt
1–2 tsp olive oil
1 tsp lemon juice or zest
1 small garlic clove, minced (or ¼ tsp garlic powder)
1–2 tsp fresh herbs (parsley, mint, or dill), chopped
Pinch of salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes
For the Board
½ cup Kalamata olives or mixed olives
Pita bread or crackers, for serving
Optional: 4 oz halloumi cheese, fried or grilled until golden
Additional garnishes: fresh herbs, lemon wedges
Instructions
Prepare the Whipped Feta Dip
In a food processor or blender, combine feta cheese, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice or zest, garlic, and fresh herbs.
Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes.
Cook Halloumi (Optional)
Slice halloumi into ¼-inch thick pieces.
Heat a small non-stick skillet over medium heat.
Fry or grill halloumi slices 1–2 minutes per side until golden and slightly crisp. Remove and set aside.
Assemble the Tapas Board
Place the whipped feta dip in a small bowl in the center of a serving board or platter.
Arrange olives, fried or grilled halloumi, and pita bread or crackers around the dip.
Garnish with additional fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a bright finish.
Serve
Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture. Guests can dip pita, halloumi, or enjoy olives alongside the whipped feta.
Tips & Variations
Cheese Alternatives: If you don’t have feta, use goat cheese or ricotta as a creamy base. You can also blend a mix for extra depth of flavor.
Herb Choices: Parsley, mint, dill, or basil all work beautifully. Mix herbs for added freshness.
Spice Options: Add red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or a drizzle of harissa for a spicy kick.
Olive Varieties: Mix Kalamata olives with green olives, Castelvetrano, or Niçoise olives for a variety of flavors and textures.
Additional Board Components: Include roasted vegetables (like peppers or cherry tomatoes), marinated artichokes, or pickled vegetables for a fuller mezze experience.
Bread Alternatives: Use pita chips, lavash, crostini, or even soft breadsticks for dipping.
Make Ahead: The whipped feta can be prepared several hours in advance and kept covered in the fridge. Fry or grill halloumi just before serving for the best texture.
Presentation Tip: Use a rustic wooden board or platter to arrange the dip, olives, cheese, and bread attractively—it makes the board more inviting.
Q&A
Q: Can I make the whipped feta dip ahead of time?
A: Yes. Prepare the dip a few hours in advance and store in an airtight container in the fridge. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Q: Can I serve this board vegan?
A: You can use a plant-based feta alternative and skip the halloumi, or substitute with grilled vegetables for a fully vegan option.
Q: Can I include other ingredients on the board?
A: Absolutely. Roasted peppers, cherry tomatoes, marinated artichokes, or pickled vegetables make great additions.
Q: How should I serve halloumi?
A: Slice into ¼-inch pieces and fry or grill until golden. Serve warm so it’s soft inside and slightly crisp outside.
Q: Can this be served as a meal?
A: It works best as an appetizer or small plate, but adding extra vegetables, grains, or protein can turn it into a light lunch or dinner.
Nutrition
(per serving, approx. 1/4 of board)
Calories: ~250
Protein: 10g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 1g
Sodium: ~550mg
(Values vary depending on type of cheese, olives, and amount of olive oil used.)
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Whipped Feta & Olive Tapas Board is a simple yet elegant way to enjoy Mediterranean flavors. Creamy feta, briny olives, and optionally fried halloumi combine for a mix of textures and tastes, complemented by fresh herbs and lemon. Perfect for entertaining, casual snacking, or as part of a mezze spread, it’s easy to assemble, visually appealing, and endlessly customizable.