Baked Feta with Olives and Tomatoes
An easy-to-make dish featuring creamy feta cheese, savory olives, and luscious tomatoes that deliver an explosion of flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
For the dish
- 1/4 cup olive oil Robust and fruity, adds richness.
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano Aromatic, perfect for a Mediterranean twist.
- pinch red pepper flakes A hint of spice.
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt Essential for flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Adds depth.
- 1 cup olives, pitted or not pitted Briny and rich; pairs well with feta.
- 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes or marinated roasted tomatoes Sweet and tangy.
- 1 clove garlic, thinly sliced Enhances the overall flavor.
- 6 ounces feta cheese Creamy and tangy, the star of the dish.
- Chopped fresh parsley, oregano, thyme, or basil Elevates flavors and adds color.
- Toasted baguette slices or crackers for serving Perfect for scooping.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) with the top rack positioned 4-6 inches from the broiler.
- In a small bowl, stir together olive oil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- In a medium bowl, mix olives, chopped sun-dried or marinated tomatoes, and sliced garlic until evenly distributed.
- Place the block of feta cheese in a small baking dish, ensuring space around it.
- Spoon the olive and tomato mixture around the feta and pour the seasoned olive oil over everything.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges of the feta start to brown and the tomatoes soften.
- Turn on the broiler and broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the feta develops a golden crust.
Serving
- Once out of the oven, sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs before serving.
- Enjoy warm with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or pita chips.
Notes
For variations, try different cheese varieties, or add a drizzle of honey for sweetness. Fresh lemon zest can enhance the Mediterranean essence, and different olives can add complexity.