Sun-Dried Tomato Dill Whipped Feta Crostini (10-Minute Appetizer)

, ,

This site contains affiliate links, view the disclaimer page for more information.

If you need a crowd-pleasing appetizer that comes together in the time it takes to preheat your oven (except you won’t even need your oven), this sun-dried tomato dill whipped feta crostini is about to become your new go-to. I have made this recipe more times than I can count, for everything from casual wine nights on my back porch to holiday parties where I needed something that looked fancy but didn’t actually take up my whole afternoon.

Here’s the thing about working long shifts as a nurse practitioner. By the time I get home, or by the time I’m prepping for a get together on one of my days off, I do not have hours to spend on an appetizer. I need something that tastes like I fussed over it, but that I can actually make in ten minutes flat. This sun-dried tomato dill whipped feta crostini checks every box. It’s creamy, tangy, herby, a little salty from the sun-dried tomatoes, and finished with a crunch of toasted pine nuts that makes it feel special.

My sister Cat and I have served versions of whipped feta at almost every gathering we’ve hosted together, and this sun-dried tomato and dill version is hands down one of our most requested. If you’ve been searching for a make ahead appetizer that comes out of a food processor looking like it belongs on a charcuterie board at a wedding, you found it.

Why You’ll Love This Sun-Dried Tomato Dill Whipped Feta Crostini

Let me break down why this recipe earns a permanent spot in your appetizer rotation.

  • It takes one food processor and about 5-10 minutes of actual hands on time
  • You can make the whipped feta base a few days ahead, which is a lifesaver when you’re hosting
  • It uses simple, easy to find ingredients, nothing exotic or hard to source
  • The flavor is bold without being complicated, tangy feta, bright lemon, herby dill, and savory sun-dried tomato
  • It’s endlessly adaptable if you want to swap toppings or bread
  • It looks impressive on a platter, which means people assume you spent way more time on it than you actually did

I love a recipe that gives you maximum payoff for minimal effort, and this whipped feta crostini is exactly that. It’s the kind of appetizer where people ask for the recipe before they’ve even finished the first bite.

A Little Story Before We Get Into It

I started making whipped feta dips a few summers ago after falling into a bit of a feta obsession. I was buying blocks of feta at the grocery store almost weekly, using it in salads, pastas, you name it. One night I was prepping for a small dinner party and realized I didn’t have time to make a full spread of appetizers, so I threw feta, yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and a few things I had on hand into my food processor just to see what would happen.

The result was so much better than I expected. It was creamy, tangy, and had this addictive quality where you kept going back for another bite. From there I started experimenting with different mix ins and toppings, and the sun-dried tomato and dill combination quickly became a favorite. There’s something about the brininess of the sun-dried tomatoes paired with the herby freshness of dill that just works. It reminds me a little of a Mediterranean flavor profile, similar to what you’d find in a good tzatziki or a Greek meze spread.

Now this sun-dried tomato dill whipped feta crostini is one of those recipes I keep in my back pocket for whenever I need to bring an appetizer somewhere or whenever I’m hosting and want something that feels a little elevated without requiring a ton of effort.

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk through the ingredients so you know exactly what you’re working with and why each one matters.

Feta Cheese
You’ll want two blocks of feta cheese, about 16 ounces total. I always recommend using block feta rather than the pre-crumbled kind you find in tubs. Block feta has a firmer texture and less added moisture, which means it whips up smoother and creamier in the food processor. The pre-crumbled stuff often has anti-caking agents that can affect the texture, so if you can grab a block, do it.

Plain Yogurt
Half a cup of plain yogurt adds creaminess and a little extra tang. I like using a full fat plain yogurt for the richest texture, but a Greek yogurt works well too if that’s what you have on hand. The yogurt helps balance out the saltiness of the feta and gives the whipped mixture that light, almost mousse like consistency.

Dried Dill
You’ll need one tablespoon of dried dill for the base, plus extra for topping. Dried dill has a more concentrated, slightly different flavor than fresh dill, so if you only have fresh on hand, you’ll want to use about three times the amount since dried herbs are more potent by volume. I like the dried version here because it blends into the whipped feta more evenly and gives you that classic herby flavor without adding extra moisture.

Sun-Dried Tomatoes
A quarter cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes goes into the mixture, plus more for topping. I usually use the oil packed sun-dried tomatoes because they’re softer and more flavorful straight out of the jar. If you’re using the dry packed variety, you may want to rehydrate them in warm water for about ten minutes before chopping, otherwise they can be a little tough and chewy.

Olive Oil
Two tablespoons of olive oil help the whipped feta blend smooth and add a little richness. Use a good quality olive oil here since it’s one of the main flavor contributors.

Garlic
Three cloves of garlic give this whipped feta some depth and a little bit of a kick. If you’re not a huge raw garlic fan, you can roast the cloves first for a milder, sweeter flavor, but I usually just toss them in raw since the food processor breaks them down so well.

Lemon Juice
The juice of half a lemon, about two to three tablespoons, brightens up the whole dish. Feta can be pretty salty and rich on its own, so the acidity from the lemon juice cuts through that and keeps things balanced.

Toppings
For the toppings, you’ll want dried dill, sun-dried tomatoes, and pine nuts. I always toast my pine nuts before adding them, just a couple minutes in a dry skillet until they’re golden, because it makes a noticeable difference in flavor. Raw pine nuts are fine in a pinch, but toasted pine nuts add this nutty, almost buttery crunch that takes the whole appetizer up a level.

Bread
Finally, you’ll need a baguette or store bought crostini. I go back and forth depending on how much time I have. If I’m making my own baguette from scratch, I’ll slice it thin and toast it in the oven with a little olive oil until golden and crisp. If I’m short on time, store bought crostini works perfectly fine and honestly nobody will know the difference once it’s topped with this whipped feta.

How to Make Sun-Dried Tomato Dill Whipped Feta Crostini

Now let’s get into the actual process, which I promise is as simple as it sounds.

Step One, Blend the Base
Add your feta, yogurt, dill, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil to a large food processor. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth. This usually takes a minute or two, and you may need to stop and scrape down the sides once or twice to make sure everything is incorporated evenly. You’re looking for a texture similar to a thick, creamy dip, no lumps of feta remaining.

Step Two, Fold in the Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Once your base is smooth, stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes by hand. I like to fold these in rather than blend them into the food processor because it keeps little flecks of tomato throughout the mixture instead of turning everything one uniform color. It also helps preserve some texture.

Step Three, Transfer to a Piping Bag
Add the whipped feta mixture to a quart size ziplock bag or a piping bag. This step makes serving so much easier, especially if you’re bringing this to a party or serving a crowd. When you’re ready to serve, simply snip off the corner of the bag if you’re using a ziplock, or use your piping tip if you have one.

Step Four, Assemble the Crostini
When you’re ready to serve, pipe the whipped feta mixture onto each crostini or toasted baguette slice. Top each one with a few pieces of sun-dried tomato, a sprinkle of pine nuts, and a little extra dried dill.

Step Five, Serve and Enjoy
Arrange your crostini on a platter and watch them disappear. I promise these go fast.

Tips for Success

A few things I’ve learned from making this recipe more times than I can count.

  • Let your feta come to room temperature before blending. Cold feta straight from the fridge doesn’t whip as smoothly and can leave you with a grainier texture.
  • Taste as you go. Depending on the saltiness of your feta, you may want a little extra lemon juice to balance things out.
  • If your whipped feta seems too thick, add a small splash of olive oil or a touch more yogurt to loosen it up.
  • Make the whipped feta base up to three days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This makes party prep so much easier.
  • Don’t assemble the crostini too far in advance. The bread can get soggy if it sits topped for too long, so I recommend piping and topping right before serving, especially if you’re using a homemade baguette.
  • Toast your pine nuts. It only takes a couple of minutes and makes a real difference in flavor.

Variations and Swaps

One of the things I love most about this sun-dried tomato dill whipped feta crostini is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few variations I’ve tried and loved.

Herb Swaps
If you’re not a huge fan of dill, you can swap it for fresh basil or oregano for a slightly different Mediterranean flavor profile. Basil pairs especially well with the sun-dried tomatoes if you want to lean into more of a caprese inspired direction.

Add Roasted Red Peppers
Try adding some chopped roasted red peppers either in place of or alongside the sun-dried tomatoes. It adds a slightly sweeter, smokier note that pairs beautifully with the tangy feta.

Turn It Into a Dip
If you don’t feel like piping individual crostini, you can serve this whipped feta as a dip instead. Just spread it into a shallow bowl, top with your sun-dried tomatoes, pine nuts, and dill, and serve with pita chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping. This is a great option if you’re short on time or serving a more casual crowd.

Dairy Swaps
If you want an extra tangy version, try using Greek yogurt instead of regular plain yogurt. It adds a bit more thickness and protein without changing the overall flavor much.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This is one of the best things about this recipe for anyone who hosts regularly. The whipped feta base can be made up to three days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. I actually think the flavors get even better after a day, once the garlic and dill have had a little more time to meld together.

I do not recommend assembling the crostini too far ahead of time, especially if you’re using a fresh baguette, since the bread can lose its crunch. If you’re using store bought crostini, they hold up a little better since they’re already fully dried out and crisp.

As for freezing, I don’t recommend freezing the whipped feta mixture. The yogurt and feta can separate and change texture once thawed, so this one is best made fresh within a few days of serving.

What to Serve with Sun-Dried Tomato Dill Whipped Feta Crostini

If you’re building out a full spread, here are a few ideas for what pairs well alongside this appetizer.

  • A crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or a dry rosé complements the tangy, herby flavors beautifully
  • Other Mediterranean inspired appetizers like a classic hummus, marinated olives, or a simple Greek salad
  • Fresh vegetables and crackers if you’re serving this as a dip instead of on crostini
  • A charcuterie board with cured meats, additional cheeses, and fresh fruit for a more elaborate spread

This appetizer works well for so many occasions. I’ve served it at holiday parties, summer get togethers, and even just as a fun snack for a quiet night in with a glass of wine. It’s versatile enough to dress up or keep casual depending on what you’re going for.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the whipped feta ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the whipped feta base up to three days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. I actually think the flavor improves after sitting for a day.

What’s the best bread for crostini?
A baguette sliced thin and toasted with a little olive oil works beautifully, but store bought crostini are a great time saving option and work just as well.

Can I use fresh dill instead of dried?
Yes, though you’ll want to use about three times the amount since fresh herbs are less concentrated than dried. So if the recipe calls for one tablespoon of dried dill, you’d use about three tablespoons of fresh.

Can I make this gluten free?
Absolutely, just swap the baguette or crostini for a gluten free bread option or serve the whipped feta as a dip with gluten free crackers or fresh vegetables.

Can I freeze whipped feta?
I don’t recommend it. The texture of the yogurt and feta can change once frozen and thawed, so this one is best enjoyed fresh within a few days of making it.

How long does this appetizer keep once assembled?
Once assembled with the bread, it’s best enjoyed within a couple of hours since the bread can start to soften. The whipped feta base on its own keeps well in the fridge for up to three days.

Enjoy!

This sun-dried tomato dill whipped feta crostini has become one of my most trusted appetizer recipes, and I think once you try it, it will become one of yours too. It’s the kind of recipe that looks like it took way more effort than it actually did, which honestly is my favorite kind of recipe to have on hand.

Whether you’re hosting a big holiday gathering, need a quick appetizer for a wine night with friends, or just want something delicious to snack on during a quiet evening at home, this whipped feta crostini delivers every single time. Give it a try and let me know what you think. I would love to hear how you topped yours or if you tried any of the variations.

If you make this sun-dried tomato dill whipped feta crostini, tag us on Instagram or Pinterest, we always love seeing your creations. And if you’re looking for more easy appetizer ideas, be sure to check out our other crostini and dip recipes on the blog.

With Love,

Bri and Cat

Affiliate Disclaimer:
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This comes at no additional cost to you. We only recommend products that we believe will add value to our readers.

Sun-Dried Tomato Dill Whipped Feta Crostini

This sun-dried tomato dill whipped feta crostini is a creamy, tangy appetizer that comes together in just 10 minutes using one food processor. Whipped feta, sun-dried tomatoes, and dill get piped onto crostini and topped with toasted pine nuts for a crowd-pleasing bite that looks like it took way more effort than it did.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Servings: 12 people
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Calories: 130

Ingredients
  

  • 2 Blocks Feta Cheese 16 Oz Total
  • 1/2 Cup Plain Yogurt
  • 1 Tbsp Dried Dill Plus Extra For Topping
  • 1/4 Cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes Chopped, Plus Extra For Topping
  • 2 Tbsp Olive Oil
  • 3 Cloves Garlic
  • Juice Of 1/2 Lemon About 2 To 3 Tbsp
  • Pine Nuts Toasted, For Topping
  • 1 Baguette Or Store Bought Crostini

Equipment

  • Large Food Processor
  • Quart Size Ziplock Bag Or Piping Bag
  • Small skillet for toasting pine nuts
  • Serving platter

Method
 

  1. Add The Feta, Yogurt, Dill, Garlic, Lemon Juice, And Olive Oil To A Large Food Processor
  2. Blend Until Completely Smooth, Scraping Down The Sides As Needed
  3. Stir In The Chopped Sun-Dried Tomatoes By Hand
  4. Transfer The Mixture To A Quart Size Ziplock Bag Or A Piping Bag
  5. When Ready To Serve, Pipe The Whipped Feta Onto Each Crostini Or Toasted Baguette Slice
  6. Top Each One With Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Toasted Pine Nuts, And A Sprinkle Of Dried Dill
  7. Arrange On A Platter And Serve Immediately

Notes

  • Let The Feta Come To Room Temperature Before Blending For A Smoother Texture
  • Toast The Pine Nuts In A Dry Skillet For A Couple Minutes Until Golden For Extra Flavor
  • Make The Whipped Feta Base Up To 3 Days Ahead And Store In The Fridge
  • Assemble The Crostini Right Before Serving So The Bread Stays Crisp
  • Add A Splash Of Olive Oil Or Extra Yogurt If The Mixture Seems Too Thick

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating