Watermelon, Whipped Feta, & Basil Bites
Watermelon is one of the classic summer fruits but sometimes you want to do a little bit more with it than just cube it and go. This easy recipe for watermelon, whipped feta and basil bites offers a great party option to make with your favourite summer fruit. Or simply a tasty option for a summer’s afternoon relaxing in the garden!
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How do I cut a watermelon properly?
For anyone who has bought pre-cut watermelon slices at the grocery store, try these simple steps to slice watermelon on your own.
Clean the watermelon with soap and water. It should be completely dry.
Using a serrated knife, cut the ends off the beast. You may require assistance in cutting off the end; however, even if you do it alone, it is easier than splitting the fruit in half.
Flip and cut the watermelon diagonally at both ends. Cut down one of the cut edges with your knife, then turn it up on one of the cut ends and slice down. You have something to work with now and can cut into the classic wedges or cubes as needed.
What else can you do with whipped feta dip?
If you find you’ve made too much whipped feta dip, then I have some ideas for you on how to use it. The great thing about this whipped feta dip is that you can serve it with just about anything!
Vegetables: You could try dipping veggies in this! Carrots, cucumbers, and olives are my favorite.
Crackers: You can’t go wrong with crackers and dip! Wheat Thins, Triscuts, and Ritz crackers are some of my favorites. However, be creative! Any that you enjoy will suffice.
Bread: Dipping bread in this is wonderful! A crostini, a baguette, or sourdough bread are all fantastic with it!
What you need to make watermelon bites
- 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 8 oz. Feta, crumbled
- 3 T. half & half
- 1/3 c. balsamic vinegar
- Fresh seedless watermelon, cut 24 1” squares approximately 1/3” thick
- 12 fresh basil leaves, stems removed
- 1/3 c. pistachios, chopped
Garnish: (optional)
- Small sprigs of fresh basil
How to make the recipe
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and feta. Using an immersion blender, or by hand with a hand mixer, mix it until it is light and fluffy. Set aside.
In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and sugar. Bring to a gentle boil while stirring frequently, then cook until the liquid has been reduced by half and begins to stick to the back of a spoon. Keep warm over low heat until ready to use.
Drizzle some of the balsamic glaze onto the platter first and carefully arrange half of the watermelon squares on top.
Fill a large disposable pastry bag with some of the whipped Feta and fill it with a big tip (or use a plastic sandwich bag with one of the bottom corners removed). Pipe some whipped Feta onto each watermelon square on the platter, then garnish with fresh basil. If necessary, refill the pastry or plastic bag.
To make the decoration, lay another slice of watermelon on top of the basil and press down gently to secure it. Add some of the remaining whipped Feta and chopped pistachios to each portion.
Garnished with a few basil sprigs and a little drizzle of the remaining balsamic glaze, if desired.
Storing the recipe
You can store any unused dip in an airtight container for 2-3 days.
Recipe tips
You could also change the feta cheese for some goats cheese if you prefer the taste.
Watermelon, Whipped Feta and Basil Bites
Make something different with your favourite summer fruit with this watermelon bites recipe topped with whipped feta and basil
Ingredients
- 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 8 oz. Feta, crumbled
- 3 T. half & half
- 1/3 c. balsamic vinegar
- Fresh seedless watermelon, cut 24 1” squares approximately 1/3” thick
- 12 fresh basil leaves, stems removed
- 1/3 c. pistachios, chopped
Garnish: (optional)
- Small sprigs of fresh basil
Instructions
Place cream cheese, Feta, and half & half in a large mixing bowl and beat with a hand mixer or immersion blender until mixture is light and fluffy. Set aside.
Heat balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally, and cook until the liquid is reduced by one half and starts to cling to the back of a spoon. Reduce heat to low and keep warm until ready to use.
Drizzle balsamic glaze onto a serving platter and carefully arrange half of the watermelon squares on top.
Transfer some of the whipped Feta mixture to a pastry bag fitted with a large tip (or use a plastic sandwich bag with one of the bottom corners removed). Pipe the whipped Feta onto each watermelon square on the platter and top each with some fresh basil. Refill the pastry or plastic bag as necessary.
Place another slice of watermelon on top of the basil and gently press down to secure. Top each appetizer with some of the remaining whipped Feta and chopped pistachios.
Serve immediately garnished with small sprigs of fresh basil and a light drizzle of the remaining balsamic glaze, if desired.
Notes
You could also change the feta cheese for some goats cheese if you prefer the taste.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
6Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 636Total Fat: 27gSaturated Fat: 14gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 74mgSodium: 514mgCarbohydrates: 95gFiber: 5gSugar: 77gProtein: 16g
