Indulge in the savory delight of Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes. This Mediterranean-inspired appetizer combines creamy feta cheese, briny olives, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, all baked to perfection with aromatic herbs and garlic. Serve it warm with crusty bread for an irresistible flavor experience.
Ingredients:
8-ounce block feta cheese
1 cup pitted olives, drained
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes
⅓ cup olive oil
3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
½ teaspoon dried oregano
Kosher salt
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon dried rosemary
Fresh cracked pepper
Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
Sliced French bread or crostini, for serving
Directions:
Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, place the feta cheese in a small baking dish.
Assemble: Scatter the olives and sun-dried tomatoes around the feta in the baking dish.
Prepare the Flavor Burst: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, sliced garlic, oregano, thyme, rosemary, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Infuse with Flavor: Pour the olive oil mixture evenly over the feta, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes, ensuring they’re well coated.
Bake: Pop the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes until the flavors meld and the feta turns soft and creamy.
Broil for Brilliance: For an irresistible golden finish, switch to broil for 1-2 minutes to lightly brown the top of the dish.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the baked feta, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant pop of color and flavor. Serve alongside sliced French bread or crispy crostini for the perfect vehicle to scoop up this indulgent appetizer.
Serving Tips:
Serve Warm: This dish is best enjoyed when served warm, straight out of the oven. The gooey, creamy texture of the feta paired with the burst of flavors from the olives and sun-dried tomatoes is simply irresistible.
Accompaniments: Present your Baked Feta with a variety of accompaniments such as sliced French bread, crispy crostini, or even crunchy crackers. These options provide a delightful contrast in texture and make for perfect vessels to scoop up the savory goodness.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Elevate the visual appeal and flavor profile of your dish by garnishing it with freshly chopped parsley. Not only does it add a pop of color, but it also imparts a fresh and herbaceous note to each bite.
Pairing Suggestions: Complement the Mediterranean flavors of the baked feta with a glass of crisp white wine or a light, fruity rosé. The acidity and refreshing qualities of these wines will balance out the richness of the dish beautifully.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The feta and accompanying ingredients will keep well for up to 2-3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, simply place the leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat as the feta can become too soft.
Versatile Leftovers: Leftover baked feta can be repurposed in various dishes such as salads, pasta, or even as a topping for grilled vegetables. Get creative and explore different ways to enjoy this delicious creation.
Related Recipes:
- Sun-Dried Tomato, Spinach, and Ricotta Grilled Cheese
- Whipped Feta Dip with Roasted Strawberries
- Classic Greek Salad
FAQs:
Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While feta cheese is traditional for this dish and pairs beautifully with the Mediterranean flavors, you can experiment with other types of cheese if you prefer. Try goat cheese for a tangy twist or even creamy brie for a milder flavor profile. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may alter the texture and taste of the dish slightly.
I’m allergic to garlic. Can I omit it from the recipe?
Certainly! If you have a garlic allergy or simply prefer not to use it, you can leave it out of the recipe without compromising the overall flavor too much. You can enhance the flavor in other ways, such as adding extra herbs or a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely! This Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes can be assembled ahead of time and baked when you’re ready to serve. Simply prepare the dish as instructed up to the baking step, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. When it’s time to serve, just pop it in the oven and bake according to the recipe instructions.
I’m following a gluten-free diet. What can I serve with this dish instead of bread or crostini?
If you’re avoiding gluten, there are plenty of alternatives to enjoy with your Baked Feta. Opt for gluten-free crackers, rice cakes, or sliced vegetables such as cucumber or bell peppers. These options provide a delicious and crunchy base for scooping up the creamy feta and flavorful toppings without any gluten. Additionally, you can serve it alongside a gluten-free pasta or quinoa salad for a more substantial meal.
Conclusion:
With its tantalizing aroma and irresistible taste, this Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes recipe is guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a flavorful snack, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you craving for more. Give it a try and watch as it becomes a favorite among family and friends!
📖 Recipe:
Print
Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Looking for a simple yet sensational appetizer to impress your guests? Look no further than this delectable Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes recipe. Bursting with Mediterranean flavors and effortlessly easy to prepare, it’s sure to become a staple in your entertaining repertoire.
Ingredients
8-ounce block feta cheese
1 cup pitted olives, drained
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes
⅓ cup olive oil
3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon dried rosemary
Kosher salt
Fresh cracked pepper
Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
Sliced French bread or crostini, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Place the feta cheese in a small baking dish.
- Scatter the olives and sun-dried tomatoes around the feta.
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, sliced garlic, oregano, thyme, rosemary, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Pour the olive oil mixture over the feta, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Bake for 20 minutes, then switch to broil for 1-2 minutes to lightly brown the top.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with sliced French bread or crostini.
Notes
For a variation, try adding roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts.
Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
Make sure to use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 290 kcal per serving
