APPETIZER ESSENTIALS: FETA, CREAM CHEESE HONEY DIP

Appetizer Essentials: Feta, Cream Cheese Honey Dip image

Provided by Andy Anderson !

Time 45m

Number Of Ingredients 20

PLAN/PURCHASE
THE FETA CREAM CHEESE DIP
6 oz feta cheese, crumbled
4 oz cream cheese
1/4 c olive oil, extra virgin
1 Tbsp fresh dill, chopped
1 Tbsp lemon juice, freshly squeezed
2 tsp fresh clover honey
1 tsp lemon zest
THE BAKED TOMATOES
10 oz grape tomatoes, 1 standard container
2 Tbsp olive oil, extra virgin
salt, kosher variety, to taste
black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
OPTIONAL ITEMS
a clove or two of baked garlic
fresh oregano, chopped
fresh basil, as a topping
a drizzle of balsamic glaze
a drizzle of honey

Steps:

1. PREP/PREPARE
2. Gather your ingredients (mise en place).
3. THE FETA CREAM CHEESE DIP
4. Place all the ingredients into a blender, or small prep bowl, fitted with an S-blade.
5. Blend until all the ingredients are incorporated and smooth, then reserve.
6. THE BAKED TOMATOES
7. Place a rack in the middle position, and preheat the oven to 400f (205c).
8. Slice the grape tomatoes in half, then toss with the olive oil, and a bit of salt and pepper.
9. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast until softened and beginning to brown, about 30 - 35 minutes.
10. THE ASSEMBLY
11. Place the feta dip on a plate, and then top with the baked tomatoes.
12. Chef's Note: Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze, and honey (optional)
13. PLATE/PRESENT
14. Serve while the tomatoes are still warm, or at room temperature, with pita chips or crackers. Enjoy.
15. Keep the faith, and keep cooking.