Baked Feta

This Baked Feta appetizer is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that comes together quickly and effortlessly. With just a handful of ingredients, this dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual gathering or an elegant dinner party. The warm, creamy feta is beautifully complemented by the briny olives and sweet sun-dried tomatoes, making it a standout choice for your appetizer spread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish takes only 5 minutes to prepare, making it an excellent option for last-minute entertaining.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of feta cheese, olives, and herbs creates a rich and savory taste that your guests will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve with crispy crostini or sliced French bread for dipping, perfect for every palate.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this appetizer offers a flavorful experience without compromising on nutrition.
• Customizable Recipe: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to personalize the flavor profile further.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Having everything ready will make the process even easier!

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A suitable size ensures even cooking and allows the feta to melt perfectly.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients before pouring them over the feta.
• Knife: Essential for slicing garlic and preparing fresh ingredients quickly.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop vegetables and herbs easily.

Ingredients

For the Baked Feta

• 8-ounce block feta
• 1 cup pitted olives, drained
• 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

For Serving

• sliced French bread or crostini

How to Make Baked Feta

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step ensures that your baked feta cooks evenly from the start.

Step 2: Assemble Ingredients in Baking Dish

• Place an 8-ounce block of feta in a small baking dish.
• Arrange 1 cup of drained olives and 1/2 cup of sun-dried tomatoes around the feta in the dish.

Step 3: Prepare Oil Mixture

In a small mixing bowl:
1. Combine 1/3 cup olive oil with 3 thinly sliced garlic cloves.
2. Add 1/2 teaspoon each of dried oregano, thyme, and rosemary.
3. Season with pinches of kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper.

Step 4: Combine and Bake

• Pour the olive oil mixture over the block of feta along with the olives and sun-dried tomatoes.
• Bake in preheated oven for 20 minutes.
• Broil for an additional 1-2 minutes to achieve a golden top.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from oven:
* Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
* Serve warm with crispy crostini or sliced French bread.

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How to Serve Baked Feta

Baked feta is a versatile appetizer that can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in, there are various options to elevate your baked feta experience.

With Crostini

• Serve with crispy crostini for a delightful crunch that complements the creamy feta. Simply slice and toast French bread until golden.

As Part of a Charcuterie Board

• Include baked feta on a charcuterie board alongside cured meats, fruits, and nuts. This adds a rich flavor contrast to the other offerings.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Pair with fresh vegetable sticks like cucumbers, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes. The freshness balances the richness of the baked feta.

On a Salad

• Crumble the baked feta over mixed greens for a flavorful salad addition. Drizzle with extra olive oil and balsamic vinegar for enhanced taste.

With Pasta

• Toss baked feta into warm pasta dishes for added creaminess and flavor. It works well with both tomato-based and olive oil-based sauces.

On Crackers

• Spread some baked feta on your favorite crackers for an easy-to-make snack. Choose whole grain or herb-flavored crackers for an extra kick.

How to Perfect Baked Feta

Perfecting your baked feta means achieving that creamy texture while enhancing its flavors. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out luscious and delicious.

• Choose Quality Feta – Use high-quality feta cheese for the best flavor. Look for crumbly varieties that melt beautifully when baked.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic, herbs, and sun-dried tomatoes add depth to the dish. Avoid dried herbs if possible, as fresh ones provide more vibrant flavors.

• Don’t Skip the Oil – Olive oil not only helps to bake the feta evenly but also enhances the overall taste. Make sure you drizzle generously over all ingredients.

• Watch Baking Time – Keep an eye on your dish while baking. You want it warm and creamy; avoid overcooking which can lead to a rubbery texture.

• Experiment with Flavors – Feel free to add different herbs or spices according to your preference. Red pepper flakes can give it a nice kick!

• Garnish Just Before Serving – Add fresh parsley or other herbs right before serving to maintain their color and freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Feta

Baked feta pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance its flavors and textures. Here are some great options to consider serving alongside your baked feta:

1. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad – A light salad bursting with vegetables, olives, and lemon vinaigrette that complements the richness of the feta.

2. Roasted Vegetable Medley – Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant make for a savory side that balances the meal.

3. Garlic Herb Breadsticks – Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter create a perfect dipping tool for enjoying the creamy baked feta.

4. Tzatziki Sauce – This refreshing cucumber yogurt dip provides a cool contrast to warm baked feta while adding its own unique flavor profile.

5. Greek Pasta Salad – A cold pasta salad featuring olives, cucumber, tomatoes, and feta creates a well-rounded meal when paired together.

6. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas) – These flavorful rice-stuffed grape leaves add an authentic Mediterranean touch that goes well with baked feta.

7. Chickpea Hummus – Smooth hummus made from chickpeas pairs nicely with crostini or veggies alongside your baked feta spread.

8. Herbed Couscous – Fluffy couscous seasoned with herbs makes for an easy side dish that complements the rich flavors of the feta appetizer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Baked Feta a standout dish. Here are a few to keep in mind:

• Using low-quality feta – Always opt for a high-quality block of feta cheese. It will melt better and provide a richer flavor.
• Overbaking the feta – Keep an eye on the baking time. Overbaking can lead to dry cheese, so stick to 20 minutes followed by a quick broil.
• Skipping the herbs – Fresh or dried herbs enhance the flavor significantly. Don’t skip them; they bring the dish to life!
• Neglecting seasoning – A pinch of salt and cracked pepper is essential. Without it, your Baked Feta may taste bland.
• Not adjusting for personal taste – Feel free to customize with your favorite olives or additional spices. Make it your own!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Baked Feta in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Baked Feta

• While it’s best fresh, you can freeze Baked Feta for up to 1 month.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating Baked Feta

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and bake until heated through, about 10 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals (20-30 seconds) until warm, but avoid overheating.
• Stovetop – Gently warm on low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Baked Feta?

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

How do I serve Baked Feta?

Serve Baked Feta warm with crispy crostini or sliced French bread. You can also pair it with fresh vegetables for dipping.

Can I customize my Baked Feta?

Yes! Feel free to add different types of olives, substitute sun-dried tomatoes with roasted peppers, or include various herbs according to your taste.

How long does it take to prepare Baked Feta?

The prep time is only about 5 minutes, while the total cooking time is around 20-25 minutes.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Feta appetizer is not just simple but incredibly versatile. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it perfect for gatherings or as an indulgent snack. Try experimenting with different ingredients to suit your palate; you might discover a new favorite variation!