Baked Feta with Olives & Sun-Dried Tomatoes: A Mediterranean Delight

by

Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of the Mediterranean with this delectable Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes recipe. This simple yet elegant dish features perfectly baked creamy feta cheese topped with briny olives, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. This dish, whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or light meal, will transport your taste buds to the shores of Greece with its irresistible flavor combination. Let’s get started with the recipe and learn how to make this Mediterranean delight.

Ingredients:

  • 1 block (8 ounces) feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
  • 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish
  • Sliced baguette or crackers, for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish or oven-proof skillet with olive oil and set aside.

2. Prepare the Feta:

  1. Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the prepared baking dish or skillet.

3. Add the Toppings:

  1. Sprinkle the halved Kalamata olives and chopped sun-dried tomatoes evenly over the feta cheese.
  2. Scatter the minced garlic over the olives and sun-dried tomatoes.

4. Season and Drizzle:

  1. Drizzle the extra-virgin olive oil over the top of the feta cheese and toppings.
  2. Sprinkle the dried oregano, dried thyme, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and freshly ground black pepper over the top.

5. Bake the Feta:

  1. Transfer the baking dish or skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the feta is soft and slightly melted around the edges.

6. Garnish and Serve:

  1. Remove the baked feta from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
  2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
  3. Serve the Baked Feta with Olives & Sun-Dried Tomatoes warm, accompanied by sliced baguette or crackers for dipping.

7. Enjoy Your Mediterranean Delight:

  1. Dive into the irresistible flavors of this Baked Feta with Olives & Sun-Dried Tomatoes, savoring the creamy texture of the feta cheese paired with the briny olives and tangy sun-dried tomatoes. It’s like a taste of the Mediterranean in every bite!

Tips:

  • Feel free to customize the toppings based on your preferences. You can add ingredients like roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, capers, or fresh herbs to enhance the flavor profile.
  • Serve the baked feta as part of a mezze platter alongside other Mediterranean-inspired dishes like hummus, tzatziki, and grilled vegetables.
  • Leftover baked feta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.

Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a simple but elegant dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. This dish, with its creamy texture, bold flavors, and aromatic herbs, will impress your taste buds and transport you to Greece’s sunny shores. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or light meal, this Mediterranean delight is sure to please family and friends. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to savor the Mediterranean flavors with each bite!