Baked Feta

This Baked Feta appetizer is an irresistible dish that combines creamy feta cheese with vibrant olives and sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for gatherings, this quick and easy recipe will have your guests coming back for more. The warm, gooey feta paired with crispy crostini makes it a standout choice for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to elegant parties.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this dish in minutes.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of feta, olives, and herbs delivers a rich and savory flavor that pleases everyone.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as an appetizer or alongside a salad for a light meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress your guests and elevate your hosting game.
• Healthier Choice: Packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s a fun way to include nutritious elements in your meal.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing this Baked Feta is simple with the right tools. Having the essential equipment on hand will make the cooking process seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Small mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and prevents spills while baking.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing garlic and other ingredients quick and easy.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients without causing mess.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Baked Feta Appetizer, gather these simple ingredients:

For the Feta Base

• 8-ounce block feta
• 1 cup pitted olives, drained
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes

For the Flavorful Sauce

• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Kosher salt
• fresh cracked pepper

For Garnishing and Serving

• fresh chopped parsley
• sliced French bread or crostini

How to Make Baked Feta

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Place an 8-ounce block of feta into a small baking dish.

Step 3: Add Olives and Tomatoes

Surround the feta with 1 cup of olives and 1/2 cup of sun-dried tomatoes.

Step 4: Mix the Oil and Herbs

In a small mixing bowl, combine:
1. 1/3 cup olive oil
2. 3 cloves sliced garlic
3. 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
4. 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
5. 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
6. A couple pinches of salt and pepper.

Step 5: Pour Over Feta Mixture

Pour this mixture over the block of feta, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes evenly.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then broil for an additional 1-2 minutes until golden brown.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve warm with crispy crostini or sliced French bread.

Step 8: Rate This Recipe!

If you loved this recipe, please leave a 5-star rating and review! Enjoy your delicious Baked Feta!

How to Serve Baked Feta

Baked Feta is a delightful appetizer that can be enjoyed in many ways. Its creamy texture and rich flavors pair perfectly with a variety of accompaniments, making it a versatile choice for gatherings or quiet nights at home.

With Crostini

• Serve with crispy crostini for a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy feta.

As Part of a Charcuterie Board

• Include baked feta on a charcuterie board with assorted cheeses, nuts, and fruits for a beautiful presentation.

Over Salad

• Drizzle the warm baked feta over mixed greens or roasted vegetable salads for added creaminess and flavor.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Pair with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for a delicious and healthy option.

On Pasta

• Toss the baked feta and its flavorful oil with pasta for a quick and tasty meal.

As a Dip

• Mash the baked feta into a dip consistency and serve with fresh veggies or pita chips.

How to Perfect Baked Feta

To achieve the best results when making baked feta, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Feta: Opt for high-quality feta cheese that will melt beautifully and provide rich flavor.

• Preheat Oven Accurately: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 350 degrees before baking to achieve even cooking.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will enhance the overall taste of your baked feta.

• Watch the Broil: Keep an eye on the broiling step to prevent burning; just 1-2 minutes should suffice for a golden top.

• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other herbs or spices according to your preference for additional depth of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Feta

Baked Feta pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Roasted Vegetables
   A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender adds color and nutrition to your meal.

2. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
   A refreshing blend of quinoa, cucumber, tomatoes, and lemon dressing balances the creaminess of the feta.

3. Garlic Bread
   Crispy garlic bread brings an irresistible crunch and flavor that pairs excellently with melted cheese.

4. Hummus Platter
   Serve alongside hummus with fresh veggies for dipping—perfect for those who enjoy plant-based options.

5. Caprese Salad
   The classic combination of tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella enhances the dish’s Mediterranean flair.

6. Stuffed Peppers
   Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains or legumes make for a hearty side that complements baked feta well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Baked Feta turns out perfectly, here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Boldly skip the seasoning: Not adding enough salt and pepper can leave your dish bland. Always taste and adjust seasonings before baking.
• Boldly overlook the baking time: Overbaking can lead to dry feta. Keep an eye on your dish, especially during broiling.
• Boldly ignore ingredient quality: Using low-quality feta or stale sun-dried tomatoes can affect flavor. Choose fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
• Boldly skip garnishing: Forgetting to add fresh parsley as a garnish can make your dish look less appealing. Always finish with a touch of greenery for presentation.
• Boldly use stale bread: Serving Baked Feta with old bread will ruin the experience. Opt for fresh crostini or sliced French bread for a crunchy texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Baked Feta will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Baked Feta

• It is not recommended to freeze Baked Feta as it may alter the texture.

Reheating Baked Feta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, checking frequently to prevent overheating.
• Stovetop: Gently heat in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Baked Feta.

What is Baked Feta?

Baked Feta is a creamy appetizer made by baking feta cheese with olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs until warm and delicious.

Can I customize my Baked Feta?

Yes! Feel free to add different vegetables or spices according to your taste preferences for a unique twist.

How do I serve Baked Feta?

Serve it warm alongside crispy crostini or sliced French bread for dipping. It also pairs well with crackers.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the ingredients ahead, but it’s best to bake shortly before serving for optimal freshness and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Feta recipe is an easy-to-make appetizer that impresses guests with its rich flavors and creamy texture. It’s versatile; you can customize it with various herbs or vegetables. Don’t hesitate to give it a try—you’ll love how quickly it comes together!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Baked Feta

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the creamy goodness of Baked Feta, a delightful appetizer that’s a perfect blend of savory flavors. This dish features a luscious block of feta cheese baked with vibrant olives and sun-dried tomatoes, all drizzled with aromatic herbs and garlic-infused olive oil. Ideal for entertaining, this simple yet elegant recipe will have your guests raving as they scoop up the warm feta with crispy crostini or sliced French bread. With its rich taste and easy preparation, Baked Feta is not just an appetizer; it’s an experience that brings everyone together around the table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8-ounce block feta cheese
• 1 cup pitted olives
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Kosher salt
• fresh cracked pepper
• fresh chopped parsley
• sliced French bread or crostini

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the feta cheese in a small baking dish.
3. Surround the feta with olives and sun-dried tomatoes.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, oregano, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the mixture over the feta and vegetables evenly.
6. Bake for 20 minutes; then broil for an additional 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with crostini.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 30mg