Baked Feta

This Baked Feta Appetizer is a delightful dish that brings together the warmth of baked cheese with the vibrant flavors of olives and sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also visually appealing. The creamy feta, infused with aromatic herbs and garlic, creates an irresistible dip that pairs beautifully with crispy crostini.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and just a few ingredients, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, herbs, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a rich and savory flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as an appetizer at parties, a side dish for meals, or even as a snack while watching your favorite shows.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with healthy fats from olive oil and feta cheese, this appetizer is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It’s perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in with family—everyone will be reaching for more!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience as smooth as possible, gather the necessary tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Dish: A good baking dish ensures even heat distribution for perfectly baked feta.
• Mixing Bowl: This is essential for combining ingredients like olive oil, garlic, and herbs effortlessly.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing garlic easy and ensures uniform pieces for better flavor release.
• Oven: An oven is vital for achieving that warm and creamy texture in the feta.

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Ingredients

To create this delicious Baked Feta Appetizer, gather the following 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

Heat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Add an 8-ounce block of feta to a small baking dish.

Step 3: Add Olives and Tomatoes

Place 1 cup of pitted olives and 1/2 cup of sun-dried tomatoes around the feta in the baking dish.

Step 4: Mix Olive Oil and Herbs

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

Step 5: Pour Mixture Over Feta

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

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes. For added browning, broil for an additional 1–2 minutes.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve with crispy crostini.

Step 8: Enjoy!

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Servings: 8
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Greek/American

How to Serve Baked Feta

Baked feta makes for a delightful appetizer that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dish and impress your guests.

With Crostini

• Use crispy crostini for dipping. The crunchy texture pairs perfectly with the creamy baked feta.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Include baked feta on a charcuterie board alongside an assortment of cheeses, fruits, and nuts for a vibrant spread.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Serve with sliced fresh vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes. This adds a refreshing crunch to each bite.

As a Pasta Sauce

• Mix the warm baked feta into cooked pasta for a creamy sauce that’s bursting with flavor. The olives and sun-dried tomatoes enhance the dish beautifully.

Topped on Salad

• Crumble baked feta over mixed greens or grain salads for an added burst of flavor and richness.

How to Perfect Baked Feta

To achieve the best results with your baked feta, follow these simple tips.

• Use Quality Feta: Choose high-quality feta cheese for richer flavor and better melting consistency.
• Adjust Olive Oil: Drizzle more olive oil if you prefer a creamier texture once baked; it helps in achieving that luscious feel.
• Experiment with Herbs: Try using fresh herbs instead of dried ones for an even more aromatic experience.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time; slightly underbaking can yield a creamier texture.
• Broil Carefully: Broil the feta just until golden brown to avoid burning while still enhancing its flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Feta

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

1. Garlic Bread
   Toasted bread brushed with garlic butter enhances the meal’s savory profile and is perfect for dipping.

2. Roasted Vegetables
   A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and nutrition, balancing out the richness of the baked feta.

3. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
   This salad adds a nutritious component with quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives that align well with Mediterranean flavors.

4. Stuffed Grape Leaves
   These traditional bites bring in additional layers of flavor and texture that match beautifully with baked feta.

5. Hummus Platter
   Serve with assorted hummus flavors alongside pita chips or vegetable sticks for added variety in taste and texture.

6. Greek Yogurt Dip
   A refreshing dip made from Greek yogurt mixed with herbs can cool down the richness from baked feta while enhancing overall flavors.

7. Couscous Salad
   Light and fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and lemon zest offers a great contrast to the warm appetizer.

8. Olive Tapenade
   This spread made from olives complements the flavors of baked feta while adding an extra layer of savory goodness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Baked Feta, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can ruin your dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using the wrong feta: Not all feta is created equal. Choose a block of feta cheese rather than crumbled for the best results.
• Overcrowding the baking dish: Adding too many ingredients can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure there’s enough space around the feta for even heat distribution.
• Skipping the herbs: Herbs add flavor and aroma. Don’t skip them; instead, experiment with different dried herbs to enhance your dish.
• Not preheating the oven: Starting with a cold oven can affect cooking time and texture. Always preheat your oven before baking.
• Ignoring broiling time: Broiling gives a beautiful finish. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning and achieve the perfect golden top.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-5 days for optimal flavor and freshness.

Freezing Baked Feta

• Place in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in foil.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months; however, texture may change upon thawing.

Reheating Baked Feta

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Use medium power and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, covering it to retain moisture until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Baked Feta:

What is Baked Feta?

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

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! While feta is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta for different flavors.

How do I serve Baked Feta?

Serve warm with crispy crostini or fresh bread as a delicious appetizer perfect for gatherings or parties.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time but bake it just before serving for the best taste and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Feta recipe is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding various vegetables or spices to suit your taste. Give this delightful appetizer a try at your next gathering!