Prepare the Avocados:

1. Cut and Pit Avocados: Cut avocados in half lengthwise around the pit. Twist the halves apart, carefully remove the pit (tap with knife edge and twist), and scoop the flesh into a medium mixing bowl.
2. Mash Avocados: Using a fork or potato masher, mash the avocados to your desired consistency. For chunkier dip, leave it slightly lumpy. For smoother dip, mash more thoroughly. (For ultra-smooth dip, you can use a food processor, but hand-mashing creates better texture!)

Add Remaining Ingredients:

3. Add Feta: Crumble the feta cheese into the mashed avocado. Reserve a tablespoon of feta for garnish if desired.
4. Add Lemon Juice: Add fresh lemon juice (start with 2 tablespoons—you can add more later).
5. Add Garlic and Herbs: Add minced garlic (start with 1 clove) and chopped fresh herbs (3 tablespoons).
6. Add Olive Oil: If using, drizzle in the olive oil for extra creaminess and Mediterranean flavor.
7. Season: Add black pepper (¼ teaspoon) and a tiny pinch of salt if needed (remember, feta is already quite salty!).

Mix and Adjust:

8. Fold Together: Gently fold all ingredients together with a spoon or spatula until well combined but still maintaining some texture. Don’t overmix—you want to see bits of feta and herbs throughout.
9. Taste and Adjust: This is crucial! Taste the dip and adjust seasonings:
   • Need more tang? Add more lemon juice (½ tablespoon at a time)
   • Need more garlic? Add another minced clove
   • Need more salt? Add a tiny pinch (careful—feta is salty!)
   • Want more herbs? Add another tablespoon
   • Too thick? Thin with olive oil or a splash of water
10. Serve or Chill: Transfer to a serving bowl. If time allows, cover and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to let flavors meld (makes it even better!). Before serving, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with reserved feta, and garnish with fresh herbs.