Baked Feta

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by Amelia

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Baked Feta

This Baked Feta recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a party, a family gathering, or a cozy night in. The warm, creamy feta combined with olives and sun-dried tomatoes delivers an explosion of flavor that will impress your guests. Quick to prepare, this appetizer is not only delicious but also versatile, pairing wonderfully with crispy crostini or sliced French bread.

Baked Feta
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy Preparation: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip this up in no time.
  • Flavor Explosion: The combination of feta, olives, and herbs creates a rich and savory taste that’s hard to resist.
  • Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a starter or alongside your favorite dishes; it fits perfectly in any meal plan.
  • Perfect for Sharing: Great for gatherings, this dish encourages sharing and conversation around the table.
  • Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to make it truly yours.

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the best results with this baked feta recipe, having the right tools on hand makes the process even smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Baking dish
  • Mixing bowl
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Oven mitts

Importance of Each Tool

  • Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and easy serving of your baked feta.
  • Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients before pouring them over the feta.
  • Knife: Necessary for slicing garlic and preparing fresh ingredients efficiently.
  • Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for cutting to avoid mess and improve safety.
Baked

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
  • sliced French bread or crostini

How to Make Baked Feta

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your baked feta will cook evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Place an 8-ounce block of feta cheese into a small baking dish. Surround the feta with 1 cup of pitted olives and 1/2 cup of sun-dried tomatoes.

Step 3: Mix the Flavorful Topping

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

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Pour the olive oil mixture over the block of feta cheese along with the olives and sun-dried tomatoes evenly.

Step 5: Bake

Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes. For an extra touch, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes until golden on top.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from oven carefully using oven mitts. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot with crispy crostini or sliced French bread.

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

How to Serve Baked Feta

Baked feta is a versatile appetizer that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a cozy night in, here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your baked feta experience.

With Crispy Crostini

  • Toasted bread slices make the perfect vehicle for the creamy feta and flavorful toppings. Serve warm for an extra crunch.

Over Fresh Salad

  • Place baked feta on a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar for a fresh twist.

On Pasta

  • Toss the warm feta and its juices with cooked pasta for a quick, creamy dish. Add some fresh herbs or veggies to enhance the flavor.

As Part of a Charcuterie Board

  • Include baked feta as one of the star attractions on your cheese board. Pair it with assorted crackers, fruits, and nuts for variety.

With Grilled Vegetables

  • Serve baked feta alongside grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus. The warmth of the dish complements the smoky flavors of the vegetables.

In a Wrap

  • Combine baked feta with hummus and fresh veggies in a wrap. This makes for a delicious lunch option that’s both filling and nutritious.

How to Perfect Baked Feta

Achieving the ideal baked feta requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

  • Choose Quality Feta: Using high-quality feta cheese will greatly enhance the flavor of your dish.
  • Don’t Skip the Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs add depth to the flavor profile; oregano, thyme, and rosemary work wonderfully.
  • Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your feta while it bakes; overcooking can lead to dryness.
  • Mix Up Ingredients: Feel free to experiment with different olives or sun-dried tomatoes for unique flavors.
  • Serve Immediately: Baked feta is best enjoyed hot and creamy straight from the oven.
  • Garnish Generously: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness that elevates presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Feta

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

  1. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
    A refreshing mix of quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives dressed in lemon vinaigrette creates a vibrant plate.

  2. Roasted Vegetable Medley
    A mix of seasonal veggies like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers roasted until caramelized adds sweetness.

  3. Hummus Platter
    Serve classic hummus alongside pita chips and vegetable sticks for a satisfying crunch that balances the creaminess of baked feta.

  4. Garlic Bread
    Crispy garlic bread served warm is great for dipping into the melted feta mixture.

  5. Chickpea Salad
    A protein-packed salad with chickpeas, red onion, and parsley tossed in lemon juice provides a hearty side.

  6. Stuffed Grape Leaves
    These savory delights pair well with baked feta’s creaminess and add an authentic Mediterranean touch.

  7. Greek Tzatziki Sauce
    This yogurt-based dip offers cooling freshness that contrasts beautifully with hot baked feta.

  8. Olive Tapenade
    A spread made from olives enhances the saltiness of the dish while adding another layer of flavor complexity.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking the perfect Baked Feta can be a breeze, but a few common mistakes can ruin the experience. Here are some errors to watch out for:

  • Bold ingredient choices: Using low-quality feta can affect the flavor. Opt for a good quality block of feta for the best results.
  • Bold overcooking: Baking for too long will dry out the feta. Stick to the recommended baking time to keep it creamy.
  • Bold neglecting seasoning: Forgetting to season your dish can result in blandness. Always add salt, pepper, and herbs for flavor enhancement.
  • Bold overcrowding: Adding too many ingredients around the feta may lead to uneven cooking. Keep the ratio balanced for optimal results.
  • Bold skipping garnishes: Not garnishing with parsley can make your dish less appealing. Fresh herbs add color and freshness, so don’t skip this step.
Baked

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 can alter the texture.
  • If necessary, place it in a freezer-safe container, but consume within a month.

Reheating Baked Feta

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes until heated through.
  • Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals of 30 seconds until warm, being careful not to overcook.
  • Stovetop: Place on low heat in a pan, cover with a lid, and stir occasionally until warmed through.

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 warm and creamy.

How do I serve Baked Feta?

Serve Baked Feta with crispy crostini or sliced French bread for dipping. It pairs well with fresh vegetables too!

Can I customize my Baked Feta?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other ingredients like artichokes or peppers for additional flavors.

What should I pair with Baked Feta?

Baked Feta goes great with a variety of appetizers such as hummus, tapenade, or fresh salads.

How long does Baked Feta take to prepare?

The total time is just 25 minutes—5 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of baking!

Final Thoughts

This Baked Feta recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can modify it based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish promises satisfaction. Give it a try and see how deliciously simple appetizers can be!

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

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Baked Feta

Baked Feta


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  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 4

Description

Baked Feta is a delightful appetizer that brings together the creamy richness of feta cheese, the briny goodness of olives, and the sweet-tart flavor of sun-dried tomatoes. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile, making it the perfect choice for any gathering or cozy night in. Simply pop it in the oven, and within minutes, you’ll have a warm, flavorful dip that pairs beautifully with crispy crostini or sliced French bread. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply treating yourself, this Baked Feta recipe is bound to impress with its simplicity and taste.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 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 for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the feta in a baking dish and surround it with olives and sun-dried tomatoes.
  3. In a bowl, mix olive oil, sliced garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour the mixture over the feta and toppings.
  5. Bake for about 20 minutes until warm; broil for an additional 1-2 minutes until golden.
  6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (approximately 85g)
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 690mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 7g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg

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