Savory Marinated Chickpeas with Creamy Whipped Feta

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked chickpeas
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best flavor.
  2. In a food processor, combine the feta cheese, Greek yogurt, lemon zest, and extra virgin olive oil. Blend until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Spread the whipped feta on a serving platter.
  4. Spoon the marinated chickpeas over the whipped feta.
  5. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil.
  6. Serve with pita bread or fresh vegetables for dipping.
  7. Prep Time: 15 minutes | Marinating Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
  8. Kcal: 220 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings

FAQs:

  • Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried chickpeas? Yes, you can use canned chickpeas for convenience. Rinse and drain them well before marinating. If using dried chickpeas, cook them until tender before marinating.
  • How long should the chickpeas marinate for the best flavor? For the best flavor, marinate the chickpeas for at least 2 hours, but overnight is ideal. This allows the chickpeas to fully absorb the marinade’s flavors.
  • Can I substitute the feta cheese with another cheese for the whipped feta? If you prefer a different cheese, you can substitute feta with goat cheese or ricotta. Goat cheese will give a similar tangy flavor, while ricotta will provide a milder taste and creamier texture.
  • How should I serve this dish? Savory marinated chickpeas with creamy whipped feta can be served as a dip with pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables. It also makes a great topping for salads, grain bowls, or as part of a mezze platter.
  • Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare both the marinated chickpeas and the whipped feta ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Assemble just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

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