Baked Feta and Figs

This Baked Feta and Figs dish is a delightful winter appetizer that combines the creamy texture of feta with the sweet, jammy flavors of figs and grapes. Perfect for gatherings, this one-pan recipe is not only easy to prepare but also bursts with flavor. Serve it warm alongside toasted baguette slices, and you have an impressive starter that will wow your guests at any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time and just one baking sheet required, this recipe is straightforward and hassle-free.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet figs, tangy feta, and fresh thyme creates a harmonious blend of tastes that is sure to please.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as an appetizer or a light snack; this dish adapts well to various occasions.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the figs, grapes, and herbs make for a stunning display on any platter.
• Perfect for Winter Gatherings: This comforting dish is ideal for holiday parties or cozy dinners during chilly months.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Baked Feta and Figs masterpiece, you’ll need a few essential tools. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Serving dish

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: A large baking sheet allows for even cooking and easy transfer to the oven.
• Mixing bowl: Use a mixing bowl to combine ingredients effortlessly before baking.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your dish.

Ingredients

This oven baked feta with figs, grapes, and thyme is the perfect one-pan appetizer for serving during the winter.

For the Fruit

• 10 figs, halved (mission figs are best)
• 10 ozs grapes, seedless

For the Dressing

• 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 ½ tbsps extra virgin olive oil, divided
• 2 tbsps honey, divided

For the Feta

• 1 block Greek feta, in brine
• ½ to 1 tsp Aleppo pepper

For Garnish

• 4 to 5 sprigs fresh thyme
• Baguette, sliced and toasted (for serving)

How to Make Baked Feta and Figs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425℉. This ensures that your dish bakes evenly and achieves that golden-brown finish on top.

Step 2: Prepare the Fruit Mixture

• Place the figs and grapes on a large baking sheet.
• Toss them with balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and half of the honey.
• Transfer the baking sheet into the oven for eight minutes.

Step 3: Add Feta and Seasoning

• Remove the baking sheet from the oven after eight minutes.
• Add the block of feta cheese to the center of the fruits on the baking sheet.
• Drizzle the feta with remaining olive oil, honey, and sprinkle with Aleppo pepper.
• Add fresh thyme sprigs around everything on the baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake Until Jammy

Place everything back in the oven for an additional 15 minutes. Bake until grapes burst open, and figs become jammy.

Step 5: Finish Baking Under Broiler

Remove from oven again. Transfer only the baking sheet with feta under high broil for three to five minutes until it turns golden brown on top.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Transfer baked feta along with roasted grapes and figs to a serving dish. Drizzle more honey if desired. Garnish with flaky salt if you like.

Step 7: Enjoy!

Serve warm alongside toasted baguette slices for dipping. Enjoy your delicious Baked Feta and Figs!

How to Serve Baked Feta and Figs

Baked feta and figs make an exquisite appetizer that can be enjoyed in various ways. Their sweet and savory combination pairs well with different accompaniments, enhancing the overall dining experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Baguette Slices: Serve warm, toasted baguette slices for dipping into the melted feta and jammy figs.
• Pita Bread: Soft pita is another great option for scooping up the creamy feta and sweet fruit.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Cheese Variety: Include a selection of cheeses that complement the flavors, such as goat cheese or aged cheddar.
• Nuts: Add some roasted almonds or walnuts for a crunchy texture alongside the soft baked feta.

Accompanied by Fresh Salads

• Arugula Salad: A peppery arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
• Mediterranean Salad: Combine cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives for a refreshing side.

As Part of a Holiday Spread

• Festive Platter: Arrange baked feta and figs on a holiday platter with seasonal fruits like pomegranates or citrus slices.
• Grazing Table Addition: Incorporate this dish into a larger grazing table filled with assorted appetizers for guests to enjoy.

How to Perfect Baked Feta and Figs

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your baked feta and figs, keep these tips in mind.

• Bold Preheat Your Oven: Ensure your oven is fully preheated before adding the ingredients for even cooking.
• Bold Use Quality Ingredients: Select fresh, ripe figs and high-quality feta to enhance the overall taste.
• Bold Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Space out your figs and grapes on the baking sheet to allow them to roast properly without steaming.
• Bold Adjust Spice Level: Modify the amount of Aleppo pepper based on your spice preference—start small if unsure!
• Bold Broil with Caution: Watch closely while broiling; it can quickly go from perfectly browned to burnt.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Feta and Figs

Baked feta and figs can be complemented by several delightful side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Bold Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers roasted with olive oil provide a hearty contrast.
2. Bold Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs adds protein and freshness to your meal.
3. Bold Hummus Platter: Serve various hummus flavors alongside raw veggies or pita chips for dipping.
4. Bold Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus offers a crisp texture that pairs well with the softness of baked feta.
5. Bold Couscous Pilaf: Fluffy couscous mixed with dried fruits or nuts complements the sweetness of figs beautifully.
6. Bold Spinach Artichoke Dip: A warm dip that adds creaminess to your spread, perfect for spreading on bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Baked Feta and Figs, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Using unripe figs: Unripe figs can be tough and lack sweetness. Always choose ripe, soft figs for the best flavor.
• Overcooking the feta: Baking feta too long can cause it to dry out. Keep an eye on it during broiling to prevent this.
• Skipping the thyme: Fresh thyme adds a wonderful aroma and flavor. Don’t skip this vital herb; it elevates the dish.
• Not adjusting flavors: Taste your dish before serving. You may want to add more honey or balsamic vinegar based on personal preference.
• Ignoring presentation: How you serve your baked feta matters! Use a beautiful platter, and consider garnishing with flaky salt or herbs for visual appeal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Baked Feta and Figs

• It’s best to freeze only the figs and feta separately if needed.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring all air is removed, and store for up to 2 months.

Reheating Baked Feta and Figs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until just warm. Be cautious not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, stirring gently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Baked Feta and Figs, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use different types of cheese for Baked Feta and Figs?

You can experiment with other cheeses, but feta provides a unique creaminess that works well with figs.

What can I serve with Baked Feta and Figs?

This dish pairs wonderfully with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or even fresh vegetables like cucumber sticks.

Is Baked Feta and Figs suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can prepare this dish ahead of time, just store it properly in the fridge or freezer.

Can I customize my Baked Feta and Figs recipe?

Yes! Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or almonds for extra crunch or swap out herbs based on what you have on hand.

How do I know when my figs are ripe enough?

Ripe figs should feel soft to the touch with slightly wrinkled skin. The color will vary by type but should appear rich and deep.

Final Thoughts

Baked Feta and Figs is a delightful winter appetizer that’s both simple and elegant. This dish shines at gatherings or cozy nights in. Feel free to customize it further by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting the sweetness levels. Enjoy making this versatile recipe!

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

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Baked Feta and Figs

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Baked Feta and Figs is a luxurious yet simple appetizer that perfectly captures the essence of winter gatherings. This easy one-pan recipe brings together creamy feta cheese, sweet figs, and juicy grapes, all drizzled with balsamic vinegar and honey, resulting in a delightful blend of flavors. Roasted until golden and served warm with toasted baguette slices, this dish is sure to impress your guests at any occasion. The vibrant colors and rich aromas make it a stunning centerpiece for your appetizer table. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or enjoying a cozy night in, Baked Feta and Figs is the ultimate crowd-pleaser.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 10 figs, halved
• 10 oz seedless grapes
• 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 ½ tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 block Greek feta cheese
• ½ to 1 tsp Aleppo pepper
• 4 to 5 sprigs fresh thyme
• Sliced toasted baguette (for serving)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. On a baking sheet, combine figs and grapes with balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and half the honey; bake for 8 minutes.
3. Add feta to the center of the fruit mixture and drizzle with remaining olive oil, honey, and sprinkle with Aleppo pepper; add thyme sprigs.
4. Return to oven for an additional 15 minutes until fruits are jammy.
5. Broil on high for 3-5 minutes until feta is golden brown.
6. Serve warm with toasted baguette slices.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 1/4 of the dish (about 150g)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 380mg
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 21g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 25mg