Spicy Feta Dip (Tirokafteri)

The first time I had authentic Greek food was at Greek Islands restaurant in Chicago, which is perhaps the next best place to get it outside of Greece. I was there with a big group of friends who all shared a passion for food and trying new things, so our table was laden with all sorts of tasty things to eat. From the appetizer sampler platters to the homemade baklava for dessert, everything was absolutely delicious and so flavorful. I couldn’t wait to recreate some of the dishes when I returned home.

One of my favorite dishes of the night was an appetizer called tirokafteri (sometimes also called htipiti), which is a spicy feta dip. It’s typically made with feta cheese, sweet roasted red peppers, spicy hot peppers, olive oil and red wine vinegar—and sometimes Greek yogurt and lemon juice. Because this flavorful dip comes together in less than 10 minutes, it’s perfect for last-minute entertaining. Or make it ahead of your get-together, because this dip tastes even better the day after you make it.

Spicy Feta Dip Ingredients

• Feta: For the best flavor, use a whole block of feta for this recipe rather than feta crumbles.
• Roasted red peppers: A 12-ounce jar of roasted red peppers will be easiest to use, but if you prefer to roast your own peppers, you’ll need to roast two small red bell peppers. Roasted red peppers add vibrant red color and sweet, slightly smoky flavor to the dip.
• Garlic: A teaspoon of minced garlic adds its signature pungent flavor to the dip. If you have garlic cloves on hand, you’ll only need to mince one to get a teaspoon.
• Olive oil: Olive oil adds flavor and helps the dip achieve its smooth texture. Use extra virgin olive oil, not regular olive oil for dip recipes like this one—the flavor shines through. Your favorite high-quality extra virgin olive oil brand will do.
• Red wine vinegar: The sharp and tangy flavor of this popular type of vinegar complements the savory and salty flavor of the feta.
• Seasoning: This feta dip is seasoned with a spicy and savory combination of crushed red pepper flakes, za’atar, dried oregano, salt and pepper.
• Garnishes: The dip is garnished with fresh parsley, kalamata olives and feta crumbles.
• Dippers: Serve this spicy dip alongside pita triangles, baguette slices, pita chips, fresh vegetables or a selection of crackers.

Directions

Step 1: Make the dip

Place the feta cheese, roasted red peppers, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, za’atar seasoning, dried oregano and crushed red pepper flakes in the bowl of a food processor. Process until they’re just combined. Drizzle olive oil through the vegetable shoot until the dip is smooth, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Editor’s Tip: If you’re worried about the spice level, start with a small amount of crushed red pepper flakes. It is much easier to add more spice than to tame the heat after it’s been added.

Step 2: Garnish and serve

Transfer the dip to a serving bowl. Garnish it with parsley, olives and feta. Cover and chill it, or serve it immediately with pita chips, fresh vegetables and crackers.

Spicy Feta Dip Variations

• Add more spice: For an even spicier dip, use a fresh jalapeno in place of (or in addition to) the crushed red pepper flakes. Leave the jalapeno seeds in for a fiery dip; remove the seeds and ribs for less heat.
• Make the dip creamier: Add up to 1/4 cup of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream for a richer dip.

How to Store Spicy Feta Dip

Leftover spicy feta dip should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dip will last up to four days when stored properly in the fridge.

Can you make spicy feta dip ahead of time?

You can make this dip two to three days in advance of serving it. Store the dip in an airtight container in the fridge, and garnish it just before serving it.

Spicy Feta Dip Tips

What else can you serve with spicy feta dip?

Spicy feta dip is a tasty addition to a mezze platter alongside fresh pita, tabbouleh, olives, tzatziki, marinated artichoke hearts, and fresh veggies such as sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes and carrots. Serve it with other Greek recipes like moussaka, pastitsio, chicken souvlaki pitas or gyros.

What other ways can you use spicy feta dip?

This spicy dip can be drizzled on or served with roasted vegetables or meat, such as lamb and beef kabobs or grilled chicken breasts. It also makes a tasty sandwich spread.