Description
Mediterranean magic unfolds with this feta appetizer, blending salty olives and tangy sun-dried tomatoes. Creamy cheese nestled among herb-infused ingredients promises a quick, elegant starter that draws guests closer to Greek-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Cheese & Protein:
- 8 ounces (226 grams) feta cheese block
- 1 cup (150 grams) pitted olives, drained
Herbs & Seasonings:
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- Kosher salt
- Fresh cracked pepper
Flavor Enhancers & Accompaniments:
- ⅓ cup (80 milliliters) olive oil
- ½ cup (75 grams) sun-dried tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
- Sliced French bread or crostini, for serving
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C), positioning the rack in the center for even cooking.
- Select a ceramic or glass baking dish that comfortably fits the feta block without overcrowding.
- Carefully arrange the whole feta block in the center of the dish, surrounding it with a generous mixture of kalamata and green olives and julienned sun-dried tomatoes.
- Create a fragrant herb-infused oil by whisking together extra virgin olive oil, minced fresh garlic, dried oregano, fresh thyme leaves, crushed rosemary, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a small mixing bowl.
- Slowly drizzle the herb-infused oil over the feta, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes, ensuring even coverage and maximum flavor absorption.
- Transfer the prepared dish to the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, allowing the cheese to soften and the flavors to meld together.
- Switch the oven to broil and cook for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to achieve a golden, slightly crispy top without burning.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to settle.
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a bright, fresh garnish.
- Serve immediately with warm, toasted French baguette slices or crisp crostini for dipping and enjoying the warm, herb-infused cheese.
Notes
- Elevate your appetizer game with this Mediterranean-inspired baked feta that transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering dish.
- Sourcing high-quality feta cheese and sun-dried tomatoes makes a significant difference in the final flavor profile.
- Customize the herb blend by experimenting with fresh or dried herbs based on your pantry availability and personal taste preferences.
- Serve immediately while the cheese is warm and creamy for the most satisfying texture and optimal enjoyment.
- Leftover baked feta can be refrigerated and enjoyed cold as a spread on toast or mixed into salads the next day.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 1500mg
- Fat: 45g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 30g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg