This Baked Feta with Olives & Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a simple yet flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for entertaining. The warm, creamy feta pairs beautifully with the briny olives and tangy sun-dried tomatoes.
π Ingredients:
- π§ 1 block (8 oz) feta cheese
- π 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
- π« 1/2 cup mixed olives (Kalamata, green, etc.), pitted and halved
- π§ 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- πΏ 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- πΏ 1 tablespoon fresh oregano leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried oregano)
- π Zest of 1 lemon
- π« 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- πΆοΈ 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- πΏ Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- π₯ Crusty bread or crackers, for serving
π Directions:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C).
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Place the block of feta cheese in a small ovenproof dish.
- Add Toppings:
- Scatter the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, halved olives, and sliced garlic over and around the feta.
- Sprinkle the fresh thyme, fresh oregano, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes (if using) over the top.
- Drizzle the extra-virgin olive oil evenly over everything.
- Finish with a few grinds of freshly ground black pepper.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the feta is soft and slightly golden on the edges.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
- Serve warm with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 200 kcal per serving
π‘ Notes:
- For a variation, you can add a handful of cherry tomatoes to the dish before baking.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of crisp white wine or a light rosΓ©.
- If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute the sun-dried tomatoes with roasted red peppers.