Feta Compli Food

CREAMY WHIPPED FETA DIP

Steps:

• Combine all of the ingredients in a food processor or blender and process until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning, if necessary. Transfer to a serving bowl and use a small spoon to create a swirl on the surface of the dip. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and crushed red pepper flakes, if using.
• MAKE AHEAD: This dip can be made up to 3 days ahead of time and stored in a covered container in the refrigerator. It will stiffen up in the fridge to a spread-like consistency, so be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about an hour before serving.
• To make the toasted pita wedges: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Brush the pita bread on both sides with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Cut into wedges, then arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes until lightly toasted.
• To make the toasted sesame seeds: In a small pan over medium heat, cook the sesame seeds, stirring frequently, until golden, a few minutes. Watch carefully as they are quick to burn.

FETA COMPLI

Steps:

• Combine matzo meal and sugar; cut in margarine or butter with a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse meal. Add 1 lightly beaten egg; stir well to combine. Stir in the almonds. Firmly press the mixture on the bottom and up the sides of a 10-inch deep-dish pieplate. (I spray mine with oil, because everything tends to stick for me!) Prick the bottom and sides of the pastry with a fork. Bake at 400 degrees for 7 minutes. Set aside, and let it cook completely.
• Cook spinach in a small amount of boiling water for 3 to 4 minutes; drain. Press the spinach between paper towels to remove the excess moisture. Set aside.
• Saute onion in oil in a medium skillet until tender. Combine the onion, reserved spinach, and Swiss cheese. Set aside.
• Combine the half-and-half and next 5 ingredients in container of an electric blender (I use a handheld blender), and process until smooth. Set aside.
• Spread the spinach mixture over the prepared crust; top with feta cheese. Pour the half-and-half mixture over cheese. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees for 50 minutes or until set. (Shield with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning if necessary). Let stand 5 minutes before serving.