Dirty Martini Dip Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
Find it online: https://kitchenbyclara.com/dirty-martini-dip-recipe/
