5 minutes Creamy Paprika dip

This creamy and delicious 5-minute paprika dip is a perfect fun appetizer to dip your chips or fresh veggies in. Made with cottage cheese, paprika, feta cheese, and red onion, this paprika feta dip is my favorite and easy to make. 

I first discovered this paprika dip from my Hungarian mother-in-law, Marta, who refers to it as körözött. Traditionally, she would use bryndza, a type of sheep cream cheese, and cottage cheese in equal proportions. However, I made some adjustments since sheep milk cheese may not be readily available everywhere. Interestingly, this paprika dip has gained popularity throughout Europe, known as Liptauer in Austria, and is also found in countries like Italy, Serbia, and Romania.

I found that this dip is both healthy and easy to make. You can enjoy it as a dip with crackers or fresh vegetable sticks or even as a spread for open sandwiches.

Why you will love this recipe

This recipe can be prepared in just 5 minutes, and the best part is that you don't need a blender or food processor. This makes it an ideal choice for a quick and easy summer dip, even if you're camping or outdoors.

The combination of cottage cheese, paprika, feta cheese, and red onion not only creates a delicious flavor but also provides a kid-friendly healthy option.

Whether you enjoy dipping crackers or vegetables or prefer spreading it on an open sandwich, this paprika dip offers versatility with unlimited variations. 

Ingredients you will need

Cottage cheese: 

This ingredient has been used in the traditional recipe. I want to keep it because it provides a subtle tangy flavor and a smooth texture to the dip. Moreover, it is a healthier alternative to mayonnaise, as I've noticed in other recipes.

sour cream and feta cheese

I used a combination of sour cream and feta cheese to replace the traditional sheep milk cheese. Feta cheese provides a similar tangy and salty flavor profile, while sour cream adds creaminess and tanginess. Feel free to adjust the quantities to suit your taste or use sheep milk cheese instead.

Ground sweet paprika 

The main spice in this recipe is a sweet paprika powder that gives a warm flavor and orange-red hue to the dip.

fresh chive

I love using fresh chive or chive oil in dips, as it adds a mild onion flavor with a hint of freshness and brightness.

red onion 

To add vibrant color and a pleasant crunch.

How To Make Paprika Feta Dip

First step: Combine soft cheeses and paprika

Combine the cottage cheese, crumbled feta cheese, sour cream, and sweet paprika in a small bowl.

Second step: chop red onion and chive.

Finely chop red onion and fresh chives and stir everything together until all the ingredients are well combined. Keep some chives pieces on the side for decoration.

Third step: Transfer and serve

Transfer the paprika feta dip to a serving bowl or a jar and garnish with additional paprika and chives. 

Transfer it to an airtight container for later use; you can keep it in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. Make sure to give it a quick stir before serving.

 Tips and Tricks for a best creamy appetizer

For the best flavor, choose high-quality cottage cheese and feta cheese. Opt for a feta cheese that is creamy and not too dry, as it will provide a smoother texture to the dip.

If you prefer a creamier dip, add a little more sour cream or even a splash of milk or butter. 

If you prefer a milder onion taste, you can soak the finely chopped red onions in cold water for a few minutes, then drain and pat dry before adding to the dip.

To enhance the flavors even more, refrigerate the dip for an hour or two before serving; this allows the flavors to meld together and intensify.

Variations for a smoked paprika dip or bell peppers.

Smoked Paprika Dip: Substitute the regular paprika powder with smoked paprika for a smoky flavor; this will add a delicious smokiness to the dip, enhancing its overall taste profile.

Paprika Greek Yogurt Dip: If you prefer a tangier and creamier dip, you can replace the sour cream with an equal amount of Greek yogurt. 

Garlicky flavor: Add 1-2 minced garlic cloves for a touch of garlic flavor. Make sure to finely mince the garlic or use garlic powder or garlic-flavored oil to distribute the garlic flavor evenly throughout the dip.

Caraway Crunch: There are always caraway seeds in the traditional Hungarian recipe. I didn't use them as my kids don't like them, but if you want them, include one teaspoon of caraway seeds in the dip. 

Chili Kick: If you enjoy some heat, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce or spicy ketchup to spice up the dip. 

Lemon Juice, powder, or Zest: For a refreshing citrus twist, grate some lemon zest or add a splash of lemon juice to the dip. 

Pepper Dip: Sweet Roasted red peppers make an excellent addition, adding sweetness and smoky flavor to a pepper dip. Begin by brushing the bell peppers with one tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil and placing them on a tray lined with baking paper. Roast them in the oven for 40 minutes, turning them occasionally. Once grilled and cool enough to handle, remove the skin, seeds, and stem. Finely chop the roasted peppers and add them to the Paprika Feta Dip. You can also use this red pepper jam for a similar result.

Serving suggestions

• Serve with chips, crispy crackers, pita chips, flatbread pizza, or vegetable sticks like carrots, celery, cucumber, or bell peppers. 
• Use the Paprika Feta Dip as a spread for sandwiches or wraps. I like it without additional fillings, but you can add grilled vegetables or roasted chicken too.
• Create a vibrant vegetable platter by arranging fresh, sliced vegetables around a bowl. It makes for a healthy and colorful appetizer or party snack.
• Toast slices of baguette or hemp bread then spread a generous amount of the Paprika Feta Dip on each piece. Top with diced tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, or additional chopped chives.
• Use it as a flavorful accompaniment to grilled meats such as chicken, lamb, or beef. It can be served as a dipping sauce or spread on the side.