Name: Tirokafteri: Greek Spicy Feta Dip Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 7oz / 200g block of feta cheese; 5oz / 140g drained jarred roasted red peppers (or homemade roasted red bell peppers); 1-2 red chili peppers (start with 1, add more to taste); 1 ½ tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 garlic clove; Extra feta cheese crumbles; Fresh parsley, chopped; Red pepper flakes; Extra virgin olive oil drizzle

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 10 reviews

If you are craving a dip that bursts with vibrant flavors and creamy texture, then you absolutely must try this Tirokafteri: Greek Spicy Feta Dip Recipe. This deliciously tangy and fiery spread combines creamy feta cheese with roasted red peppers and a kick of chili, making it an irresistible appetizer that comes together in just minutes. Perfect for sharing with friends or jazzing up an everyday snack, this recipe is a fantastic way to bring a little bit of Greece to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This image shows a thick, creamy orange dip spread evenly in a shallow white bowl. The surface of the dip has a smooth, slightly swirled texture with a few small peaks and valleys. Scattered on top are small white crumbles, dark red flakes, and finely chopped green herbs, adding color contrast and texture. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, giving a clean and bright setting to the dish. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Tirokafteri: Greek Spicy Feta Dip Recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, each playing a vital role in creating its unique flavor. These essentials work harmoniously to deliver creaminess, smokiness, and just the right amount of heat.

Feta cheese (7 oz / 200g block): The star ingredient that gives the dip its creamy, salty base and authentic Greek taste.
Roasted red peppers (5 oz / 140g, drained): Adds a subtly sweet, smoky flavor and a vibrant red color to the dip; jarred ones make for quick prep.
Red chili peppers (1-2): Brings the perfect spicy kick—you can adjust the heat by using one or two according to your taste.
Extra virgin olive oil (1 ½ tablespoons): Helps to emulsify the dip while adding richness and a fruity undertone.
Garlic clove (1): Gives a sharp, aromatic punch that balances the creaminess of the cheese and the sweetness of the peppers.
Garnishes (optional): Additional feta, fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, and olive oil to make your presentation sparkle and taste even better.

How to Make Tirokafteri: Greek Spicy Feta Dip Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by draining the roasted red peppers well so the dip doesn’t become watery. Peel and roughly chop the garlic clove, and prepare your chili peppers by slicing them in half to control the heat level before blending. Preparing these properly will make the blending smooth and ensure every bite has a balanced flavor.

Step 2: Blend the Dip

In a small food processor, add the feta cheese, roasted red peppers, garlic, olive oil, and one red chili pepper to begin with. Blend the mixture until it becomes smooth and creamy. This is where the magic happens, as the feta melts into silky softness while the peppers and chili infuse the dip with layers of flavor.

Step 3: Adjust and Finalize

Give your Tirokafteri a taste test. If you crave more heat, feel free to add the second chili pepper and blend again. You can also tweak the seasoning or olive oil amount to get the perfect texture and taste. Once satisfied, transfer the dip to a serving dish and prepare for the garnishes.

How to Serve Tirokafteri: Greek Spicy Feta Dip Recipe

A white plate with a raised leaf pattern around the edge holds a creamy orange dip with a smooth but slightly textured surface. The dip is spread in a circular shape with gentle swirls, topped with small white crumbles of cheese scattered unevenly. Tiny green herb pieces are sprinkled across the dip, along with small bits of dark red flakes, adding color contrast. Part of some flatbread pieces are visible on the upper left side of the frame, resting on a white marbled surface, with a blue and white checkered cloth peeking in from the bottom left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Topping your Tirokafteri with a few crumbles of extra feta, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and a dash of red pepper flakes not only enhances the flavor but makes your dip look absolutely inviting. Drizzling a little extra virgin olive oil on top adds a beautiful sheen and subtle richness that elevates every bite.

Side Dishes

This spicy feta dip is a natural companion for pita chips, fresh crusty bread, or crunchy veggie sticks like cucumbers and carrots. For a complete Mediterranean experience, serve it alongside a crisp Greek salad and some cool tzatziki to balance the heat and texture on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests? Serve your Tirokafteri in a rustic shallow bowl surrounded by a colorful array of colorful crudités or warm pita triangles. You could even layer it with a drizzle of olive oil and sprinkle of chili flakes in a clear dish to highlight its vibrant red hue, making it a stunning centerpiece for any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Tirokafteri keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will mature slightly, becoming even more complex. Just make sure to give it a good stir before serving again to bring back its creamy consistency.

Freezing

While you can freeze Tirokafteri, it’s best enjoyed fresh since the texture might become a bit crumbly once thawed. If you decide to freeze it, place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before use.

Reheating

This dip is typically served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary. If preferred warm, gently warm it in a microwave or on the stove with a splash of olive oil, stirring well to restore its luscious creaminess.

FAQs

Can I make Tirokafteri without a food processor?

Absolutely! You can finely chop the feta, roasted peppers, garlic, and chili by hand and then mash everything together using a fork or a mortar and pestle until creamy. It might take a little extra elbow grease, but the flavors will be just as fantastic.

How spicy is Tirokafteri? Can I make it milder?

The spiciness depends on the amount and type of chili you use. Starting with one chili and tasting before adding more lets you control the heat. For a milder version, remove the chili seeds or substitute with a milder pepper.

What can I use instead of roasted red peppers?

If you don’t have roasted red peppers on hand, you can roast fresh red bell peppers yourself under the broiler or over a gas flame until blackened, then peel off the skin. Alternatively, fire-roasted peppers from a jar are a convenient shortcut.

Is Tirokafteri gluten-free?

Yes, Tirokafteri is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat or gluten-containing ingredients. It’s a safe and tasty option for those following a gluten-free diet.

Can I add other herbs or spices to customize this dip?

Definitely! While the traditional recipe is simple and bright, feel free to experiment by adding dried oregano, fresh dill, or a squeeze of lemon juice for a personal twist that makes your Tirokafteri uniquely yours.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something so satisfying about whipping up a batch of Tirokafteri: Greek Spicy Feta Dip Recipe that hits all the right notes—creamy, tangy, spicy, and downright addictive. It’s effortless, vibrant, and perfect for sharing, so don’t hesitate to give this recipe a go. Trust me, once you try it, it will become one of your go-to dips for every occasion!

Tirokafteri: Greek Spicy Feta Dip Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need