If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that delivers a punch of flavor, a burst of color, and the creamiest, dreamiest texture you could ever wish for, Harissa Chickpeas with Whipped Feta will completely sweep you off your feet. Lively, smoky chickpeas mingle with a dollop of tangy whipped feta to create a Mediterranean-inspired plate that’s perfect for scooping up with warm pita or crisp veggies. Whether you serve it as a satisfying vegetarian main, a showy appetizer, or a speedy lunch, this vibrant dish is destined to become one of those recipes you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how such a short list of simple, everyday ingredients can pack such a vibrant punch! Each item plays its own special role, from earthy chickpeas to fiery harissa and that luscious feta for swoon-worthy contrast.
- Chickpeas: The hero ingredient, these little beans soak up all the bold flavors and add hearty substance.
- Harissa Paste: This North African chili paste gives the dish its smoky heat – choose mild or spicy depending on your mood!
- Block Feta Cheese: Go for block-style feta for the smoothest, creamiest whipped feta topping.
- Greek Yogurt: Adds tangy creaminess to the whipped feta, and helps it whip up ultra-fluffy.
- Olive Oil: For depth of flavor and silkiness in both the chickpeas and the whipped feta.
- Onion: Finely chopped onion brings savory sweetness to the harissa base.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the chickpeas with irresistible aroma and warmth.
- Ground Cumin: Just a dash introduces earthy, warm undertones that round everything out.
- Water or Vegetable Broth: De-glazes the pan and helps create a sauce that coats every chickpea.
- Salt & Pepper: Use to taste for seasoning as you go.
- Lemon Juice: Brightens up the whipped feta and adds zing at serving time.
- Fresh Parsley or Mint: Chopped herbs for garnish bring color and freshness to the finished dish.
- Lemon Wedges: Squeezing over a bit of lemon at the table makes the flavors pop!
How to Make Harissa Chickpeas with Whipped Feta
Step 1: Whip the Feta
Start with the whipped feta, as it benefits from a little chill time. Combine block feta, Greek yogurt, a drizzle of olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh black pepper in a food processor or blender. Whizz until you have a cloud-like, ultra-smooth spread. Pop it in the fridge while you get on with the chickpeas!
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add your finely chopped onion and cook until it turns soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then add in the minced garlic and let it turn fragrant—this base will carry a ton of Mediterranean flavor to your Harissa Chickpeas with Whipped Feta.
Step 3: Add Harissa and Spices
Spoon in the harissa paste and sprinkle over the cumin. Stir everything together and cook for about a minute, just until the harissa mellows out and fills your kitchen with smoky, spicy aromas.
Step 4: Simmer the Chickpeas
Tip in the drained chickpeas and pour in a splash of water or vegetable broth. Let everything simmer gently for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring from time to time so the chickpeas soak up all the harissa sauce and become piping hot. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Now for the grand finale! Spread a thick layer of whipped feta onto your favorite serving plate or shallow bowl. Heap the warm harissa chickpeas right on top. Shower everything with fresh herbs and serve with lemon wedges. Don’t forget to bring some warm pita or crusty bread to the party for scooping up all that goodness.
How to Serve Harissa Chickpeas with Whipped Feta
Garnishes
A final scatter of chopped parsley or mint brings freshness and vibrant green color to your Harissa Chickpeas with Whipped Feta. Squeeze over a wedge of lemon just before eating—the citrusy zing wakes up every bold flavor!
Side Dishes
This dish begs to be piled onto fluffy pita, dunked into with hunks of crusty bread, or nestled next to a simple tomato salad. For a full spread, pair alongside roasted veggies or a crisp tabbouleh—whatever brightens your table.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving in individual shallow bowls for dinner party elegance, or scoop the chickpeas and feta into lettuce cups for a lighter hors d’oeuvre. A spoonful of whipped feta on crostini with a bit of chickpea mixture on top also makes for a fun, elegant appetizer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover harissa chickpeas and whipped feta in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Keeping the components apart ensures the chickpeas stay saucy and the feta stays fluffy for swoon-worthy second helpings.
Freezing
While you can freeze the harissa chickpeas in a well-sealed container for up to one month, the whipped feta is best enjoyed fresh, as freezing may change its silky texture. If you’re prepping ahead, just make the feta mixture the day you want to eat.
Reheating
Reheat the harissa chickpeas gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if they seem dry. Stir occasionally until heated through. Whipped feta should be served cold or at room temperature—just give it a quick stir before dolloping onto your plate.
FAQs
Can I use another bean instead of chickpeas?
Absolutely! While chickpeas have the ideal texture for soaking up the sauce, white beans or even lentils will work in a pinch, transforming the Harissa Chickpeas with Whipped Feta into a new delight each time.
How spicy is harissa paste?
Harissa paste can range from mild to fiery hot. Taste yours before adding, and if you’re spice-sensitive, start with a little, then add more. Mixing in tomato paste can also mellow out the heat.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, Harissa Chickpeas with Whipped Feta is naturally gluten-free if you serve it without bread or alongside a gluten-free alternative like rice or gluten-free crackers.
Can I make this vegan?
It’s easy to create a vegan version: swap traditional feta for a plant-based feta cheese, and use non-dairy yogurt in the whipped feta. The rest of the recipe is 100 percent plant-based!
What’s the best way to serve as an appetizer?
Spread the whipped feta onto a platter, top with the harissa chickpeas, and scatter with herbs. Serve with bite-sized pita chips, crisp veggies, or spoonfuls on crostini for the perfect party starter.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving big flavor with minimal effort, Harissa Chickpeas with Whipped Feta might just become your new favorite recipe. The color, the tang, the pop of spice—it all comes together in a dish that’s as much a treat for the eyes as it is for the tastebuds. I can’t wait for you to try it and watch friends and family come back for seconds!
Print
Harissa Chickpeas with Whipped Feta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2–4 servings
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, Middle Eastern-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
Enjoy the bold flavors of North African and Mediterranean cuisine with this delightful dish of Harissa Chickpeas with Whipped Feta. Spicy harissa-infused chickpeas are served over a bed of creamy whipped feta, creating a perfect balance of heat and tanginess.
Ingredients
For the Harissa Chickpeas:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon harissa paste (mild or spicy)
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup water or vegetable broth
- Fresh parsley or mint, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
For the Whipped Feta:
- 6 ounces feta cheese (block-style, not crumbled)
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Make the Whipped Feta: In a food processor or blender, combine feta, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Chill until ready to serve.
- Prepare the Chickpeas: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic, harissa paste, and cumin. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the chickpeas and water or broth. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chickpeas are heated through and the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble: Spread whipped feta onto a serving plate or shallow bowl. Spoon the warm harissa chickpeas over the top. Garnish with chopped herbs and serve with lemon wedges and warm pita or crusty bread.
Notes
- Harissa paste varies in heat—adjust to taste or mix with a bit of tomato paste to mellow it.
- Store leftover whipped feta and chickpeas separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Great as an appetizer, side dish, or light main.
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