Dirty Martini Dip Recipe

Introduction

This Dirty Martini Dip is a flavorful and sophisticated appetizer that blends tangy feta, briny olives, and aromatic za’atar. Perfect for entertaining or a chic snack, it’s creamy, zesty, and packed with delightful Mediterranean flavors.

Ingredients

• 6 oz. feta in brine, drained, cut into small pieces (about 1 1/2 cups)
• 2 tbsp. thinly sliced chives
• 1 lemon
• 1 package cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp. gin
• 1 tbsp. vermouth
• 1 1/2 tsp. za’atar, plus more for serving
• 1/4 tsp. kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
• 1 cup torn pitted green olives, plus more for serving
• 2 tbsp. finely chopped pimento peppers or roasted red peppers
• Crackers or crostini, for serving

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a food processor, pulse the feta, chives, and lemon zest until the feta breaks into small crumbs, about 10 seconds.
2. Step 2: Add cream cheese, gin, vermouth, za’atar, salt, and black pepper to the food processor. Process until combined. With the motor running, drizzle in 1 tablespoon of olive oil and continue processing until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
3. Step 3: Transfer the mixture to a large bowl. Fold in the torn green olives and chopped pimento peppers gently to combine.
4. Step 4: Divide the dip among small martini glasses. Drizzle each with additional olive oil, then sprinkle with extra za’atar and garnish with more olives. Serve alongside crackers or crostini.

Tips & Variations

• Use roasted red peppers instead of pimento for a smoky flavor.
• Substitute gin with extra vermouth for a milder taste.
• Chill the dip for an hour before serving to let flavors meld.
• Add a pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth.

Storage

Store the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving again, let it come to room temperature and stir gently. Drizzle with fresh olive oil and a sprinkle of za’atar to refresh the flavors.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dip without alcohol?

Yes, you can omit the gin and vermouth or replace them with a splash of lemon juice or a few drops of olive brine for a similar tangy depth without alcohol.

What can I use instead of za’atar?

If you don’t have za’atar, you can substitute with a mix of dried thyme, oregano, and sesame seeds to mimic the herbaceous flavor.

Dirty Martini Dip Recipe

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 87 reviews

This Dirty Martini Dip is a vibrant and creamy appetizer combining tangy feta, herbaceous za’atar, and briny olives with a splash of gin and vermouth to evoke the flavors of a classic dirty martini. Perfectly smooth and fluffy with a hint of lemon zest and fresh chives, it’s an elegant dip served in small glasses, great for entertaining with crackers or crostini.

• Author: Clara
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base Ingredients

• 6 oz. feta in brine, drained, cut into small pieces (about 1 1/2 cups)
• 2 tbsp. thinly sliced chives
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp. gin
• 1 tbsp. vermouth
• 1 1/2 tsp. za’atar, plus more for serving
• 1/4 tsp. kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling

Add-ins

• 1 cup torn pitted green olives, plus more for serving
• 2 tbsp. finely chopped pimento peppers or roasted red peppers

To Serve

• Crackers or crostini

Instructions

1. Pulse Feta Mixture: In a food processor, pulse the feta cheese, sliced chives, and lemon zest until the feta breaks down into small crumbs, about 10 seconds to evenly distribute the flavors.
2. Add Cream Cheese and Spirits: Add the softened cream cheese, gin, vermouth, za’atar, kosher salt, and black pepper to the food processor. Process until ingredients are combined thoroughly.
3. Incorporate Olive Oil: With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil until the dip becomes smooth, fluffy, and creamy in texture.
4. Fold in Olives and Peppers: Transfer the feta mixture to a large bowl. Gently fold in the torn green olives and finely chopped pimento or roasted red peppers, distributing them evenly without crushing.
5. Serve: Divide the dip into small martini glasses for elegant presentation. Drizzle additional olive oil on top and garnish with extra za’atar and green olives. Serve immediately alongside crackers or crostini for dipping.

Notes

• Use good-quality feta in brine for the best flavor and creaminess.
• The gin and vermouth add authentic martini flavors but can be omitted for a non-alcoholic version.
• Za’atar lends a unique Middle Eastern herbal touch; substitute with a blend of thyme, sumac, and sesame if unavailable.
• Serve the dip chilled or at room temperature for best texture and taste.
• Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator up to 3 days.

Keywords: Dirty Martini Dip, feta dip, cocktail appetizer, Mediterranean dip, olive dip, party dips, creamy dip