If you’re looking for a quick and delightful appetizer that boasts both beauty and bold flavors, look no further than this Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes. This warm Mediterranean-inspired dish is a symphony of tastes and textures, where the creamy and tangy feta cheese meets the briny kick of olives and the sweet notes of sun-dried tomatoes. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this heavenly dish that’s perfect for gatherings, a cozy night in, or even as an elegant yet simple snack.
The combination of savory and fresh ingredients makes this baked feta dish not only mouthwatering but also incredibly versatile. Whether you choose to enjoy it as a part of a charcuterie board or serve it alongside some crusty bread or crackers, this dish captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine beautifully. Plus, with minimal prep work and cooking time, it’s an easy recipe to fit into your busy schedule, allowing you to impress your guests without breaking a sweat in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This Baked Feta appetizer is more than just a delicious dish; it comes with a host of benefits:
- Quick and Easy: It takes only about 30 minutes from start to finish.
- Flavor Burst: The combination of feta, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes offers a delightful explosion of Mediterranean flavors.
- Versatile Serving: This dish works wonderfully as a starter, snack, or paired with drinks.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Healthier Indulgence: Packed with good fats, antioxidants, and nutrients from the olives and tomatoes, this appetizer is a wholesome choice.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the culinary process, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the right tools to ensure a seamless cooking experience. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will allow the feta cheese to bake evenly, creating a warm, gooey texture that perfectly contrasts with the crispy edges. Prepare a small baking dish and have your ingredients at the ready on the counter, ensuring easy access while you cook. You’ll need a mixing bowl for combining your olive oil and seasonings, and a knife or garlic press for chopping the garlic. A spatula can be handy for drizzling the olive oil mixture evenly over the ingredients. Once everything is organized, you’ll be set to create this spectacular dish.
Ingredients
- 1 cup mixed green and Kalamata olives, pitted
- 1 (8 oz) block feta cheese, drained and patted dry
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp chopped fresh rosemary
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by setting your oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). This will be crucial in achieving the perfect baked consistency for your feta cheese. A properly preheated oven ensures that your dish cooks evenly, leading to that much-loved lightly golden finish.
Step 2: Assemble Ingredients
In the center of a small baking dish, place the block of feta cheese. Surround the cheese with your pitted green and Kalamata olives, and scatter the sun-dried tomatoes around. These ingredients will meld beautifully together while baking, so don’t be afraid to fill the dish generously.
Step 3: Prepare the Flavor Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, finely chopped garlic, rosemary, dried oregano, lemon zest, and seasoning (salt and pepper) to taste. This mixture will infuse the dish with rich flavors, ensuring every bite bursts with deliciousness. Give it a good stir to combine the ingredients well.
Step 4: Drizzle the Mixture
Once your flavor mixture is ready, drizzle it over the feta cheese and other ingredients in the baking dish. Make sure to cover everything evenly so that the oils and seasonings get to work their magic as they bake.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and let it bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the feta starts to soften and the top turns lightly golden. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent overcooking, as the texture should be creamy but still hold its shape.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish is best enjoyed warm, paired with crusty bread or crackers. Enjoy the creamy, savory bites as you savor the Mediterranean flavors!
Variations
- Protein: Add chopped cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein-packed version.
- Vegetables: Mix in some spinach or artichokes for an added touch of freshness and flavor.
- Spices: Experiment with spices like red pepper flakes or thyme for a kick of heat or a different herbaceous note.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure that the feta is well-drained and patted dry for better texture—excess moisture can make it soggy.
- Feel free to adjust the olive oil quantity to prefer a richer or lighter flavor.
- The baking time might vary slightly depending on your oven, so check for doneness at 20 minutes.
- For a more intense flavor, marinate the olives in olive oil with herbs the day before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with crusty bread or artisan crackers for a rustic feel.
- Serve alongside a light salad with lemon vinaigrette to complement the richness of the feta.
Tips
- Try adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top just before serving for a sweet contrast.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days—great for a quick snack!
- Reheat leftover baked feta in the oven for a few minutes before enjoying, to restore its creamy texture.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
FAQs
Can I use different cheeses besides feta?
Yes! Goat cheese or even ricotta can work well as alternatives, but they will alter the flavor and texture of the dish.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just be sure to use gluten-free bread or crackers for serving.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftover baked feta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven before enjoying.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can assemble everything ahead of time and refrigerate. Just allow the dish to come to room temperature before baking.
Conclusion
This Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a recipe that beautifully captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors and is a true crowd-pleaser. Its simplicity and versatility make it a must-try dish for any occasion, whether it’s a dinner party or a casual get-together. Don’t forget to experiment with your own variations and toppings to create a dish that’s uniquely yours. We’d love to hear how your experience goes, so feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below. Happy Cooking!
Print
Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A warm Mediterranean-inspired dish where creamy feta meets briny olives and sweet sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients
- 1 cup mixed green and Kalamata olives, pitted
- 1 (8 oz) block feta cheese, drained and patted dry
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp chopped fresh rosemary
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the block of feta cheese in the center of a small baking dish. Surround it with olives and scatter the sun-dried tomatoes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, rosemary, oregano, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the mixture over the feta and other ingredients.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until feta softens and turns golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving warm with bread or crackers.
Notes
Ensure feta is well-drained for the best texture and adjust olive oil based on preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
Nutrition
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Protein: 8 g