Zucchini Feta Dip Recipe

This Mediterranean-inspired Zucchini Feta Dip transforms humble zucchini into a creamy, flavor-packed appetizer that’ll have everyone asking for your secret. The combination of sautéed zucchini, tangy feta, and aromatic herbs creates a dip that’s miles beyond store-bought options. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s the perfect solution for last-minute entertaining or a delicious healthy snack any day of the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Zucchini: The star of the show! Peeling creates a smoother texture and removes any bitterness from the skin. Sautéing removes excess moisture for a perfectly textured dip.
• Olive oil: Use a good quality oil here – it adds richness and authentic Mediterranean flavor.
• Feta cheese: Provides tangy, salty flavor that balances the mild zucchini. Greek or Bulgarian feta works wonderfully here.
• Garlic: Fresh cloves add essential punch and depth – no substitutions recommended!
• Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess and a subtle tanginess while keeping the dip light.
• Tahini: This sesame seed paste adds nuttiness and helps create that silky-smooth texture.
• Lemon juice: Brightens everything up and balances the richness of the other ingredients.
• Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and fresh herbaceous notes that make the dip taste garden-fresh.
• Paprika: Just a pinch adds subtle warmth and beautiful color contrast.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing all the flavors together – season gradually and taste as you go.

Variations

Make this versatile dip your own with these creative twists:

• Roasted Zucchini: Instead of sautéing, roast the zucchini with olive oil at 425°F for 20 minutes for a deeper, caramelized flavor.
• Herbed Version: Add a handful of mint or dill along with the parsley for a more complex herb profile.
• Spicy Kick: Mix in a roasted jalapeño or a teaspoon of harissa paste for heat lovers.
• Lemon-Garlic Power: Double the garlic and add lemon zest for an extra flavor punch.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the feta with soft tofu and add an extra tablespoon of nutritional yeast and lemon juice.

How to Make Zucchini Feta Dip

Step 1: Sauté the Zucchini

Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Add the peeled and diced zucchini, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for about 10 minutes. This crucial step removes excess moisture from the zucchini, preventing a watery dip. The zucchini should look slightly translucent and reduced in volume.

Step 2: Cool the Zucchini

Transfer the cooked zucchini to a plate and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This prevents the heat from affecting the feta and yogurt when blending.

Step 3: Process the Ingredients

Place the cooled zucchini in your food processor along with the crumbled feta, garlic cloves, Greek yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, chopped parsley, and a pinch of paprika. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Blend Until Smooth

Pulse the mixture until it reaches your desired consistency. Some prefer it completely smooth, while others enjoy a bit more texture. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Serve with Toppings

Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and dress it up with a drizzle of quality olive oil, a sprinkle of chili flakes, fresh chopped parsley, and toasted pine nuts if desired.

How to Serve

This versatile dip pairs beautifully with so many dippers and can be served in multiple ways:

Perfect Pairings:

• Toasted pita triangles or pita chips
• Fresh vegetable crudités like bell pepper strips, carrot sticks, and celery
• Sturdy crackers or flatbreads
• Cucumber rounds for a refreshing, low-carb option

Beyond Dipping:

• Spread on crusty bread for Mediterranean-style sandwiches
• Dollop on grilled chicken or fish
• Use as a base layer in grain bowls
• Thin with olive oil for a unique salad dressing

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This dip actually improves with time! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to develop and meld together beautifully.

Freezing

While you can freeze this dip for up to 2 months, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. If freezing, omit the fresh herbs and add them after thawing for the best flavor and appearance.

Reheating

This dip is meant to be served cold or at room temperature. If you’ve just removed it from the refrigerator, let it sit for about 15-20 minutes before serving for optimal flavor and texture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Zucchini Feta Dip is one of those magical recipes that transforms everyday ingredients into something truly special. It’s become my go-to for everything from casual snacking to entertaining friends. The combination of creamy texture with bright, Mediterranean flavors makes it irresistible – and I love watching people’s surprise when they learn the main ingredient is zucchini! Give this dip a try the next time you have zucchini on hand or need a quick appetizer that will genuinely impress.

Print