Name: Homemade Cava Crazy Feta Dip Recipe (Exact Copycat)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 yellow onion; 1 jalapeño; 1 garlic head; 1 cup feta cheese; 2 tbsp olive oil; ½ tbsp lemon juice; ½ tsp lemon zest; Salt and pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe

Recreate the bold, zesty flavors of Cava's crazy feta dip at home with this simple recipe. This homemade version combines creamy feta, roasted garlic, and a hint of spice from some jalapeños to create the perfect dip for pita chips, fresh veggies, or Mediterranean-inspired bowls.

Table of Contents

Why I Love This Recipe

This recipe was inspired by my first taste of Cava's crazy feta dip during a recent family vacation to Texas. And, I'm not going to lie, it instantly became the star of the meal.

Anyway, when we got home, I spent 2 weeks trying to nail the recipe, and eventually, I landed on the one below - it became a family favorite immediately. We spent the next week making it multiple times - my kids especially love it so we go through it quickly.

The roasted garlic adds a rich, mellow sweetness, the jalapeño provides a hint of heat, and the creamy feta ties everything together perfectly. It's truly a dip that's almost impossible to resist.

Ingredients

Here's everything you'll need to make the dip:

1 yellow onion
1 jalapeño
1 garlic head
1 cup feta cheese
2 tablespoon olive oil
½ tablespoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon lemon zest
Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Homemade Crazy Feta Dip

Less than a handful of steps are all you have to follow to make this crazy feta dip.

Step 1: Roast the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Cut the onion into quarters and the jalapeño in half. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Wrap the garlic head in aluminum foil and add it to the sheet. Roast the onion and jalapeño for 20 minutes, and the garlic for 35 minutes or until soft.

Step 2: Prepare the Feta Base

Add the feta cheese to a bowl and mash it with a fork. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves into the feta and mix in the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, and a pinch of black pepper.

Step 3: Combine and Finish

Chop the roasted onion and jalapeño and stir them into the feta mixture. Adjust seasoning to taste and mix until well combined.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Serve this crazy feta dip with pita chips, fresh veggies, or as a topping for grilled chicken or lamb bowls.

My Expert Tips

Roast for Flavor: Roasting the garlic, onion, and jalapeño brings out a natural sweetness and depth that elevates this dip.
Use Fresh Feta: Opt for high-quality feta for the creamiest texture and boldest flavor.
Adjust the Spice: For a spicier kick, leave the seeds in from the jalapeño or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

FAQ's About This Crazy Feta Dip Recipe

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, store the dip in an airtight container in the fridge, and it'll stay great for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

What’s the best way to serve this dip?

Pair it with my copycat Cava pita chips, fresh vegetables, or use it as a spread for sandwiches and wraps.

Can I use a different cheese?

Feta is key to this recipe, but goat cheese can work as an alternative if needed.

My Final Thoughts

This homemade Cava crazy feta dip recipe captures all the bold, tangy, and savory flavors of the one from the restaurant. It’s perfect for gatherings, snack time, and everything in between.

As always, if you give it a try let me know how it went for you in the comments below.

More Copycat Recipes to Try Next

Yield: 16 Servings