The Ina Garten Whipped Feta Crostini Recipe is one of those appetizers that feels fancy but is very easy to make at home. It is creamy, salty, fresh and perfect for any occasion. You can serve it at parties, family dinners, brunch or even as a light snack. Many people love this recipe because it uses simple ingredients and takes very little time.
In this blog, you will learn how to make Ina Garten Whipped Feta Crostini step by step with clear instructions. You will also understand why the ingredients work so well together. If you are searching for a reliable Ina Garten Whipped Feta Crostini Recipe, this guide will help you from start to finish.
The Secret Behind This Delicious
The secret behind this delicious crostini is balance. Feta cheese has a strong and salty flavor, but cream cheese softens it and makes the texture smooth. Olive oil adds richness and helps everything blend well. Lemon juice gives a fresh taste that cuts through the creaminess. When these ingredients are whipped together, they create a light and airy spread that tastes rich but not heavy.
The bread also plays an important role. Crostini should be crispy on the outside but slightly soft inside. Toasting the bread with olive oil creates the perfect base for the whipped feta. When you bite into it, you get crunch, creaminess and freshness all at once.
Recipe Card Info
- Recipe Name: Ina Garten Whipped Feta Crostini
- Servings: 6 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Course: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Calories: 210 kcal per serving
Equipment List
- Food processor or blender
- Mixing spatula
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Sharp knife
- Serving platter
Ingredients You Need for Ina Garten Whipped Feta Crostini
- Feta cheese block
- Cream cheese, softened
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh lemon juice
- Garlic clove
- Black pepper
- Baguette or crusty bread
- Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley
- Optional toppings like honey or cherry tomatoes
Instructions
1. Prepare the Bread
Slice the baguette into even pieces. Place them on a baking sheet and brush lightly with olive oil before baking until golden.
2. Toast the Crostini
Bake the bread slices at medium heat until crisp outside but still slightly soft inside. Let them cool slightly.
3. Add Feta to Processor
Place the feta cheese into a food processor. Break it into chunks so it blends easily and smoothly.
4. Add Cream Cheese
Add softened cream cheese to the feta. This helps create a creamy and fluffy texture when blended.
5. Add Olive Oil
Pour in extra virgin olive oil slowly. This adds richness and helps the mixture whip smoothly.
6. Add Lemon Juice and Garlic
Add fresh lemon juice and a small garlic clove. This brings freshness and mild sharp flavor.
7. Whip Until Smooth
Blend everything until the mixture looks creamy, light, and smooth without any lumps.
8. Taste and Adjust
Taste the whipped feta and add black pepper or lemon juice if needed.
9. Assemble the Crostini
Spread a generous amount of whipped feta onto each toasted bread slice evenly.
10. Add Toppings
Top with fresh herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, or honey for extra flavor and beauty.
Expert Tips & Variations
- Always use block feta for better texture and flavor.
- Let cream cheese soften fully before blending for smooth results.
- Add roasted garlic instead of raw garlic for a milder taste.
- Try topping with roasted tomatoes for a juicy contrast.
- Add crushed pistachios for crunch and visual appeal.
- Use whole wheat bread for a healthier version.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Calcium | 15% DV |
Serving Suggestions
Ina Garten Whipped Feta Crostini tastes great when served fresh and slightly warm. It pairs well with light salads, soups or grilled vegetables. You can serve it as a starter before dinner or as part of an appetizer spread.
It also works well with olives, roasted nuts and fresh fruit. For parties, arrange the crostini on a large platter with colorful toppings to make them more inviting.
Storage & Reheating Tips
The whipped feta spread can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Stir it well before using again. Crostini bread should be stored separately to keep it crisp. Do not refrigerate assembled crostini, as the bread will become soft. If needed, re-toast bread slices briefly in the oven before serving.
Ina Garten Whipped Feta Crostini Recipe
Ingredients
- Feta cheese block
- Cream cheese softened
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh lemon juice
- Garlic clove
- Black pepper
- Baguette or crusty bread
- Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley
- Optional toppings like honey or cherry tomatoes
Instructions
Prepare the Bread
- Slice the baguette into even pieces. Place them on a baking sheet and brush lightly with olive oil before baking until golden.
Toast the Crostini
- Bake the bread slices at medium heat until crisp outside but still slightly soft inside. Let them cool slightly.
Add Feta to Processor
- Place the feta cheese into a food processor. Break it into chunks so it blends easily and smoothly.
Add Cream Cheese
- Add softened cream cheese to the feta. This helps create a creamy and fluffy texture when blended.
Add Olive Oil
- Pour in extra virgin olive oil slowly. This adds richness and helps the mixture whip smoothly.
Add Lemon Juice and Garlic
- Add fresh lemon juice and a small garlic clove. This brings freshness and mild sharp flavor.
Whip Until Smooth
- Blend everything until the mixture looks creamy, light, and smooth without any lumps.
Taste and Adjust
- Taste the whipped feta and add black pepper or lemon juice if needed.
Assemble the Crostini
- Spread a generous amount of whipped feta onto each toasted bread slice evenly.
Add Toppings
- Top with fresh herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, or honey for extra flavor and beauty.
Notes
- Always use block feta for better texture and flavor.
- Let cream cheese soften fully before blending for smooth results.
- Add roasted garlic instead of raw garlic for a milder taste.
- Try topping with roasted tomatoes for a juicy contrast.
- Add crushed pistachios for crunch and visual appeal.
- Use whole wheat bread for a healthier version.
FAQs about Ina Garten Whipped Feta Crostini Recipe
Can I make Ina Garten Whipped Feta Crostini ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the whipped feta one or two days ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. Assemble just before serving.
What bread works best for this recipe?
A fresh baguette or crusty artisan bread works best because it toasts well and holds the creamy topping.
Can I use low-fat cheese options?
Low-fat cream cheese can be used, but the texture may be less rich and creamy than the original recipe.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian and works well for meat-free diets and light meals.
How can I add more flavor to the whipped feta?
You can add herbs, chili flakes, or roasted garlic to customize the flavor without overpowering it.
Conclusion
The Ina Garten Whipped Feta Crostini Recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create amazing results. It is creamy, fresh, and easy to prepare even for beginners. With clear steps and helpful tips, you now know exactly how to make Ina Garten Whipped Feta Crostini at home.
This recipe is perfect for gatherings, casual meals or when you want something quick but impressive. Try it once, and it will quickly become one of your favorite appetizers to serve and enjoy.
Sofia Lane is a food lover who loves cooking and sharing easy, tasty recipes. She believes in making cooking simple and fun for everyone. On DiveCrave, Sofia shares her favorite meals, desserts and treats that anyone can make at home.