Whipped Feta With Balsamic Roasted Strawberries

Staying in and having friends over for dinner is a summertime favorite of mine and something I definitely look forward to. As we dine al fresco, lingering over a bottle of Rosé, (aka summer water), the urge to find summer appetizers is real. This one is a knockout, not only for its ease but for the indescribable combination of sweet and savory. If you are dairy free, substitute with plant-based feta cheese and yogurt.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces of feta cheese or plant-based alternative
• 1/2 cup 2% Greek yogurt or plant-based alternative
• drizzle of olive oil
• cracked pepper
• 1 large or small clove minced garlic
• 2 pounds strawberries, stems removed and cut into quarters.
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1.5 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1/2 of a red onion sliced thinly

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375° F.
2. In a food processor fitted with a metal blade process the cheese, yogurt, garlic oil, and pepper until completely smooth. Place in a shallow bowl and refrigerate.
3. Place the cut strawberries and onion into a bowl with the balsamic vinegar and maple syrup.
4. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Bake for 30 minutes until soft and roasted.
6. Remove from oven and transfer to a small plate and let cool completely in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
7. Chop some fresh basil.
8. When strawberries are cooked, place them on top of the whipped feta and sprinkle with basil and drizzle with olive oil.
9. Serve with warm bread… or if you want to keep it healthy, endive or romaine cups!