Roasted Beet Chips with Whipped Feta Dip is a healthy, colorful, and flavorful snack or appetizer that combines the earthy taste of roasted beets with the creamy, tangy goodness of whipped feta. These beet chips are baked until crispy, while the feta dip provides a perfect contrast with its smooth texture and bold flavors. It’s a great way to enjoy beets in a fun and unexpected way!
Ingredients:
For the Roasted Beet Chips:
- 2–3 medium beets (red or golden)
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary (for seasoning)
For the Whipped Feta Dip:
- 4 oz (about 1/2 cup) crumbled feta cheese
- 4 oz (about 1/4 cup) cream cheese, softened
- 2–3 tablespoons olive oil (or as needed for desired consistency)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (or white wine vinegar)
- 1 garlic clove (optional, minced)
- Fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Prep the Beets:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Wash and peel the beets. A vegetable peeler works well, or you can use gloves to avoid staining your hands.
- Using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife, slice the beets as thinly as possible (about 1/8 inch thick) for crispier chips.
2. Roast the Beet Chips:
- Toss the beet slices in olive oil, salt, and pepper (and any optional fresh herbs or seasonings you like).
- Arrange the beet slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Be sure the slices don’t overlap, as this will help them cook evenly.
- Roast the beet slices in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through. Keep an eye on them as they can burn quickly toward the end. The chips should be crispy but not too dark.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet. They will crisp up further as they cool.
3. Prepare the Whipped Feta Dip:
- In a food processor or blender, combine the crumbled feta cheese, softened cream cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic (if using).
- Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. You can add more olive oil for a smoother consistency if desired.
- Taste the dip and season with salt and pepper to your preference. You can also adjust the lemon juice for more tang.
- Transfer the whipped feta dip to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh herbs (like parsley, dill, or thyme) if desired.
4. Serve:
- Serve the crispy roasted beet chips alongside the whipped feta dip. The creamy dip pairs beautifully with the earthy, slightly sweet flavor of the beet chips.
Tips:
- Beet Variations: You can use different colors of beets, like golden or striped beets, for a beautiful and vibrant plate.
- Storage: The beet chips are best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two. If they soften, you can crisp them back up by reheating them in the oven for a few minutes.
- Dip Variations: You can adjust the whipped feta dip by adding herbs, roasted garlic, or even a drizzle of honey for a different flavor profile.
This dish is a great balance of flavors and textures—earthy, crunchy beet chips with the creamy, tangy feta dip make for a unique and satisfying snack or appetizer!