Are you ready to dive into a world of flavor with a creamy and colorful dip that’s perfect for any gathering? If you love dishes that delight your taste buds while still being healthy, look no further! Let’s explore the delightful Roasted Carrot and Red Pepper Feta Dip. This dip combines sweet roasted vegetables, creamy feta, and just the right amount of spice to create a mouthwatering dish that will impress friends and family alike.
Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing snacks for movie night, or simply looking for a tasty way to enjoy veggies, this dip is an excellent choice. It’s simple to make, requires minimal ingredients, and offers a beautiful, vibrant presentation. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Roasted Carrot and Red Pepper Feta Dip
There are countless reasons to love this Roasted Carrot and Red Pepper Feta Dip. First and foremost, it’s incredibly flavorful. The roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots and peppers, which perfectly complements the salty, tangy feta cheese. The touch of smoked paprika and red pepper flakes adds just enough warmth to keep your taste buds excited.
Another reason you’ll adore this dip is its versatility. It works wonderfully as a dip for fresh veggies, pita chips, or crackers. You can also spread it on bread for a quick and satisfying appetizer. Plus, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
And let’s not forget about presentation! The bright orange carrots mixed with the red peppers create a stunning visual that will catch everyone’s eye. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to dive right in. Whether it’s a family get-together or a potluck, this dip is guaranteed to be a hit.
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Roasted Carrot and Red Pepper Feta Dip
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Roasted Carrot and Red Pepper Feta Dip is smoky, creamy, and full of flavor. Made with roasted vegetables, white beans, and tangy feta, it’s perfect for spreading, dipping, or serving as part of a mezze platter.
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients:
- 2 red bell peppers, deseeded and halved
- 3 large carrots, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 head of garlic, left whole
- Olive oil and salt (for roasting)
- 1 (15 oz) can white beans, drained and rinsed
- 7 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for blending)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
Optional Add-Ons:
- Olive oil drizzle (for serving)
- Pomegranate arils (for sweetness and color)
- Fresh herbs like parsley or chives (for garnish)
- Extra sprinkle of paprika (for color and flavor)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roast the vegetables: Place the red peppers, carrots, and garlic head on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Roast for 25–30 minutes, or until everything is soft and slightly caramelized.
- Cool slightly: Allow roasted ingredients to cool for 5–10 minutes. Squeeze the garlic cloves out of their skins.
- Blend the dip: Add roasted carrots, peppers, garlic, white beans, feta, lemon juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes to a food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Adjust to taste: Add more lemon juice, salt, or spice as desired. For a thinner texture, add a splash of water or extra olive oil.
- Serve: Transfer to a bowl and garnish with olive oil drizzle, pomegranate arils, fresh herbs, and a sprinkle of paprika, if desired.
Notes
- This dip stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Serve with pita chips, fresh veggies, crackers, or as a spread in wraps and sandwiches.
- For a vegan version, use a dairy-free feta alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer / Dip
- Method: Roasted, Blended
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: undefined
- Trans Fat: undefined
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Roasted Carrot and Red Pepper Dip, Feta Dip, Creamy Vegetable Dip, Healthy Appetizer, Mediterranean Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need for Roasted Carrot and Red Pepper Feta Dip
To prepare this delightful dip, you will need the following ingredients:
Essential Ingredients:
- 2 red bell peppers: deseeded and sliced in half
- 3 large carrots: cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 head of garlic: left whole
- Olive oil and salt: for roasting and flavor
- 1 (15 oz) can white beans: this adds creaminess and protein
- 7 oz feta cheese: crumbled, for tangy flavor
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice: this adds brightness to the dip
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: for blending and flavor
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt: to enhance flavors
- 1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika: for that perfect smoky touch
- 1/2-3/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: for heat (adjust to your preference)
Optional Add-Ons:
If you want to take this dip to the next level, consider the following optional add-ons:
- Olive oil drizzle: for serving, adds richness
- Pomegranate arils: for a pop of sweetness and color
- Fresh herbs: like parsley or chives, for freshness and garnish
- Extra sprinkle of paprika: for a hint of color and flavor on top
How to Make Roasted Carrot and Red Pepper Feta Dip: A Step-by-Step Guide
Let’s walk through the steps to create this incredible dip. You’ll find that it’s straightforward and fun to prepare!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting the veggies to bring out their natural sweetness.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic
Take a whole head of garlic and slice off the top to expose the cloves. Drizzle the exposed garlic with a bit of olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Wrap the garlic in aluminum foil to keep it moist while roasting.
Step 3: Roast the Veggies
On a sheet pan, place the prepared garlic, red bell peppers (skin side up), and the carrot pieces. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the vegetables and sprinkle with salt. Roast everything in the oven for about 30 minutes. The carrots should become tender enough to be pierced with a fork, while the garlic may need up to 45 minutes to become soft and caramelized.
Step 4: Peel the Peppers
Once the veggies are roasted, remove the peppers from the oven and cover them with aluminum foil. Let them sit for about 10 minutes; this steaming process will make peeling the skin much easier. Once cool enough to handle, peel off the skin of the peppers and discard it.
Step 5: Blend Everything Together
In a blender or food processor, add the roasted carrots, peeled peppers, roasted garlic (squeeze out the soft cloves), white beans, feta cheese, lemon juice, olive oil, kosher salt, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Blend all these ingredients until the mixture is completely smooth. You should have a creamy, flavorful dip with a beautiful orange color.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
For an extra touch, consider serving the dip drizzled with olive oil, topped with pomegranate arils and fresh herbs, and a sprinkle of paprika. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds visual appeal. Enjoy with your favorite dippers!
Serving Suggestions for Roasted Carrot and Red Pepper Feta Dip
This dip is a versatile delight! Here are some serving suggestions:
With Veggies: Serve it with a platter of fresh vegetables like cucumber slices, celery sticks, or snap peas. The combination is refreshing and healthy.
With Bread: Spread it on toasted baguette slices or pita bread for a satisfying appetizer.
Crackers and Chips: Pair it with your favorite crackers or pita chips for a fun snack.
As a Sandwich Spread: Use this dip as a flavorful spread in sandwiches or wraps. It adds a creamy texture and enhances the taste of your fillings.
On a Cheese Board: Include this dip on a cheese platter for something different alongside your favorite cheeses.
Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Roasted Carrot and Red Pepper Feta Dip
To ensure your dip turns out perfect every time, consider these pro tips:
Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh carrots and red bell peppers. Fresh ingredients enhance flavor and texture.
Don’t Rush Roasting: Make sure to roast the veggies until they are tender and slightly caramelized. This brings out their sweetness.
Taste and Adjust: Once blended, give the dip a taste. Adjust the seasoning with more salt, lemon juice, or spices to your preference.
Chill Before Serving: For best results, allow the dip to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Blend in Batches: If you have a smaller blender, don’t hesitate to blend in batches. Just combine the blended parts in a larger bowl afterward.
Easy Variations for Roasted Carrot and Red Pepper Feta Dip
While this dip is amazing as is, feel free to mix things up! Here are some variations to try:
Add Nuts: Blend in some toasted nuts like walnuts or almonds for added crunch and healthy fats.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for different flavor profiles.
Spice It Up More: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like it spicier.
Cheese Swap: Try using goat cheese instead of feta for a creamier texture and tangy flavor.
Add Avocado: For a creamier dip, blend in some ripe avocado. This adds richness and healthy fats.
Storage Tips to Store Roasted Carrot and Red Pepper Feta Dip
If you happen to have leftovers (though this dip is always a crowd-pleaser!), you can store it easily:
Refrigerate: Transfer the dip into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will last up to 5 days.
Freeze: If you want to store it longer, you can freeze the dip in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly when thawed.
Thawing: To enjoy your frozen dip, transfer it to the fridge a day before you plan to serve it. Stir well before serving to recombine the ingredients.
Conclusion
The Roasted Carrot and Red Pepper Feta Dip is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors and colors that will elevate any gathering. Whether you keep it simple or get creative with variations, this dip is sure to delight. With its healthy ingredients and delightful taste, it’s an easy go-to dish for anyone who loves to entertain or simply enjoy delicious food at home. So go ahead, whip up this flavorful dip and watch your guests come back for seconds!
FAQs About Roasted Carrot and Red Pepper Feta Dip
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! While feta cheese gives a unique flavor, you can substitute it with goat cheese or cream cheese for a different twist.How spicy is this dip?
The spice level can be adjusted according to your taste. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes.Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dip can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. It tastes even better as the flavors meld together.What can I serve with this dip?
It’s wonderful with fresh vegetables, pita chips, bread, crackers, or even cheese platters.Is this dip vegan?
No, as the dip contains feta cheese and white beans. However, you can make a vegan version by omitting the cheese and adding nutritional yeast for flavor.
