Baked Feta and Artichoke Dip with Olive Gremolata

Try this delicious Baked Feta and Artichoke Dip with Olive Gremolata for your next party. It’s the ultimate crowd pleaser and goes perfectly with crostini or pita. Don’t miss out on this flavorful appetizer!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dip takes only 15 minutes to prep, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of feta, artichokes, and olives creates a rich and savory profile that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with crostini, pita chips, or fresh veggies for a delightful appetizer spread.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Perfect for parties, game days, or casual family dinners—it’s guaranteed to impress your guests.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients like artichokes and Greek yogurt, this dip is both tasty and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth preparation process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A good-quality baking dish ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden top.
• Mixing bowl: Using a spacious mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping herbs and garlic quick and easy, enhancing the flavor of your dip.

Ingredients

For the Dip

• 1 (12-oz.) jar Artichoke hearts
• 2 Garlic cloves
• 1 tsp Lemon, zest
• 3 tbsp Parsley, fresh
• 1/2 cup Castelvetrano olives, pitted
• 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
• 1/4 tsp Red pepper flakes
• 1 Pinch Salt and crushed red pepper flakes
• 3 tbsp Olive oil, extra-virgin
• 1/4 cup Pine nuts
• 1 (8-oz.) block Feta cheese
• 1/2 cup Mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup Whole-milk Greek yogurt, plain

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Make Baked Feta and Artichoke Dip with Olive Gremolata

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the dip.

Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl:
1. Chop the artichoke hearts, garlic, and parsley finely.
2. Add in the zest of one lemon.

Step 3: Mix the Base

Add the following ingredients into the mixing bowl:
* The chopped artichokes,
* Chopped garlic,
* Chopped parsley,
* Pitted olives,
* Mayonnaise,
* Red pepper flakes,
* Salt.

Stir thoroughly until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Dip

In a baking dish:
1. Place half of the mixture at the bottom.
2. Crumble over half of the feta cheese, then layer with half of the mozzarella cheese.
3. Repeat with remaining mixture, topping off with remaining feta and mozzarella.

Step 5: Bake

Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle pine nuts on top.
Bake in preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.

Step 6: Serve

Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it warm with crostini or pita chips!

How to Serve Baked Feta and Artichoke Dip with Olive Gremolata

This Baked Feta and Artichoke Dip with Olive Gremolata is not just delicious but also versatile. Here are some great ways to serve this flavorful appetizer.

Crostini

• Toasted slices of bread that provide a crispy base to hold the creamy dip. Perfect for scooping!

Pita Chips

• Crunchy and light, pita chips make an excellent companion. They add texture and absorb the flavors beautifully.

Fresh Vegetables

• Serve with a platter of fresh veggies like carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips for a healthy option.

Crackers

• Choose your favorite crackers for added crunch. They complement the creamy dip while offering different flavor profiles.

Grilled Bread

• Brush slices of rustic bread with olive oil and grill until crispy. This adds a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully.

Salad

• Serve alongside a simple salad for balance. A light vinaigrette will enhance the richness of the dip.

How to Perfect Baked Feta and Artichoke Dip with Olive Gremolata

To ensure your Baked Feta and Artichoke Dip with Olive Gremolata turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Let your feta cheese and yogurt sit out before mixing. This helps them blend smoothly into the dip.

• Chop artichokes finely: This ensures even distribution in the dip, allowing each bite to be packed with flavor.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! You can always add more salt or red pepper flakes based on your preference.

• Broil for a golden finish: After baking, broil the dip for a few minutes to achieve that perfect golden top.

• Fresh herbs matter: Use freshly chopped parsley in the gremolata for a vibrant taste that enhances the overall dish.

• Keep it warm: Serve immediately or keep it warm in an oven-safe dish so guests can enjoy it hot throughout your gathering.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Feta and Artichoke Dip with Olive Gremolata

Pairing side dishes with your Baked Feta and Artichoke Dip with Olive Gremolata can elevate your appetizer spread. Here are some tasty options.

1. Mediterranean Salad: A mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta tossed in olive oil and lemon juice for freshness.

2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant roasted until tender make a great complement.

3. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad mixed with herbs, lemon juice, and diced vegetables adds substance to your meal.

4. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice, herbs, and spices provide a colorful presentation alongside your dip.

5. Hummus Platter: Various hummus flavors served with pita or vegetables create an appealing spread that pairs well.

6. Olive Tapenade: A rich tapenade made from assorted olives adds complexity to your appetizer table while echoing the olive notes in the dip.

7. Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Lightly seasoned shrimp grilled to perfection provide a delicious protein option.

8. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast to the creamy dip.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Baked Feta and Artichoke Dip with Olive Gremolata, it’s easy to make a few common errors that could affect the taste and texture of your dish.

• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season your ingredients can leave the dip bland. Always add salt and pepper to enhance flavors.
• Using low-quality feta: Cheap feta can be crumbly and lack flavor. Opt for good quality feta for a creamier texture and better taste.
• Overbaking the dip: Baking too long can dry out the ingredients. Keep an eye on it and remove it when the cheeses are melted and bubbly.
• Not letting it cool slightly: Serving immediately can lead to burns or an unbalanced flavor. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
• Ignoring garnishes: Skipping the olive gremolata reduces visual appeal and flavor complexity. Always finish your dip with fresh herbs or toppings.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
• This dip will last up to 3 days when properly stored.

Freezing Baked Feta and Artichoke Dip with Olive Gremolata

• You can freeze this dip for up to 2 months.
• Make sure to use a freezer-safe container for best results.

Reheating Baked Feta and Artichoke Dip with Olive Gremolata

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the dip in an oven-safe dish and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Transfer individual servings into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a pan over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Baked Feta and Artichoke Dip with Olive Gremolata.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! While feta is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese or cream cheese for varied flavors.

How do I make this dip vegan?

To create a vegan version, swap feta for plant-based cheese and use vegan mayonnaise in place of regular mayonnaise.

What should I serve with Baked Feta and Artichoke Dip with Olive Gremolata?

This dip pairs well with crostini, pita chips, or fresh vegetables like carrots and cucumbers.

Can I add more ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or other herbs for extra flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prepping ahead of time.

Final Thoughts

Baked Feta and Artichoke Dip with Olive Gremolata is a delightful appetizer that combines savory flavors with creamy textures. It’s perfect for parties or casual get-togethers. Don’t hesitate to customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or garnishes. Enjoy this crowd-pleaser at your next gathering!