If you’re looking for an appetizer that’s bursting with flavor and requires minimal effort, then this Creamy Baked Feta with Olives & Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a must-try! This Greek-inspired dish beautifully combines the tangy taste of feta cheese with the savory goodness of olives and sun-dried tomatoes, resulting in a rich and creamy spread that will leave your taste buds singing. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a quiet evening at home, this baked feta recipe offers a delightful option that pairs perfectly with crusty bread or crisp crostini.
What’s great about this recipe is its versatility. Not only is it incredibly simple to prepare—taking just about 25 minutes from start to finish—but it also allows for various substitutions and additions based on your taste preferences. If you’re not a fan of olives, you can easily swap them out for different vegetables or even add a hint of sweetness with honey. The resulting dish is creamy, rich, and utterly scrumptious. So let’s dive into the reasons why you’ll absolutely love this creamy baked feta dish and how you can prepare it in your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Baked Feta with Olives & Sun-Dried Tomatoes
- Flavor Explosion: The heat of the oven melds the flavors of feta, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes, creating a spread that is both complex and delicious.
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. With just a few steps, you can create a gourmet appetizer without breaking a sweat.
- Versatile Dish: Customize it to your taste. Replace olives with other veggies or add in different herbs and spices to suit your preferences.
- Perfect for Entertaining: It makes an eye-catching centerpiece for any gathering, sure to impress your guests when served warm with toasted breads.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you jump into the baking, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the right tools. First, preheat your oven to 350°F to ensure it’s ready for the feta. Next, find a small baking dish or a rimmed sheet pan that will comfortably hold the block of feta and your chosen accompaniments. An oven-safe ceramic dish works wonderfully here, as it retains heat well and presents beautifully at the table.
You’ll also want to have a cutting board and knife ready for slicing the garlic and prepping any other ingredients. A small bowl for combining the olive oil with the herbs, salt, and pepper is another handy tool. Lastly, line a surface with parchment paper for easy cleanup and set out your serving platters—your creamy baked feta will be best enjoyed warm out of the oven!
Ingredients
- 8 oz block of feta cheese (preferably in brine)
- 1 cup pitted olives (green, Kalamata, or a mix)
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (preferably packed in oil)
- ⅓ cup olive oil (extra virgin is best)
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- ½ tsp each: dried oregano, dried thyme, and dried rosemary
- Kosher salt & cracked black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- Sliced French bread or crostini, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F; this temperature is ideal for baking the feta until it’s warm and creamy. While the oven is heating up, take your block of feta cheese and place it in a small baking dish—or if you’re feeling adventurous, a rimmed sheet pan will work too.
Step 2: Add the Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Once your feta is in place, it’s time to liven things up! Scatter the pitted olives and the sun-dried tomatoes around the feta. These ingredients will not only add flavor but will also enhance the aesthetic appeal of your dish. Don’t be shy; add generous amounts of both for the best taste experience!
Step 3: Create the Flavorful Drizzle
In a separate small bowl, mix together the extra virgin olive oil, thinly sliced garlic, dried oregano, thyme, rosemary, salt, and cracked black pepper. This aromatic mixture will infuse the feta and veggies with incredible flavor as they bake. Once mixed, drizzle this concoction generously over the feta and the surrounding vegetables.
Step 4: Bake and Broil for Perfection
Now, it’s time to bake your masterpiece! Place the dish into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 20 minutes. This will soften the feta and help all those delicious flavors meld together. Keep an eye on it as it bakes; after the 20-minute mark, switch to broil for an additional 1–2 minutes. This step gives the top a lovely golden crust that’s truly irresistible.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once it’s done, remove the dish from the oven carefully (it’ll be hot!). Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and serve while still warm. Pair it with crostini, slices of toasted French bread, or chips for a delightful dipping experience!
Variations
- Protein: Add cooked and crumbled sausage for a heartier version.
- Vegetables: Try using roasted red peppers or cherry tomatoes in place of olives.
- Spices: Experiment with a pinch of red pepper flakes for some added heat or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Cooking Notes
- Using feta cheese preserved in brine will result in a creamier and tastier outcome; remember to drain it before use.
<li For a crumblier option, you can utilize crumbled feta, but using a block provides better presentation and richer texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with crispy crostini, pita chips, or crusty baguette slices.
- Add a platter of fresh veggies like cucumbers, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes for a colorful addition.
Tips
- If serving to a large crowd, double the recipe for more delicious feta goodness!
- Feel free to mix in other cheeses like goat cheese or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 160 per serving
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 360mg
FAQs
Does feta melt in the oven?
While feta doesn’t melt in the same way mozzarella does, it does soften significantly and becomes wonderfully creamy, perfect for spreading.
What’s the best feta to use?
For optimal flavor and creamy texture, look for Greek feta that’s packed in brine.
What can I pair with baked feta?
This baked feta dish pairs beautifully with fresh vegetables, crispy crackers, hummus, and even roasted nuts for additional crunch.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the ingredients up to 2 hours ahead. Just cover the dish and pop it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake!
Conclusion
This Creamy Baked Feta with Olives & Sun-Dried Tomatoes is not just an appetizer; it’s a flavor-packed experience that brings friends and family together. The combination of creamy feta, vibrant olives, and sweet sun-dried tomatoes all harmoniously meld into a dish that is as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eyes. Remember, part of the fun is in the variations you can create to make this dish your own. Whether served on special occasions or simply as a comforting evening treat, this baked feta recipe is bound to become a staple in your home. Don’t hesitate to share your thoughts and favorite variations in the comments below or snap a pic of your creation. Enjoy every creamy, flavorful bite!
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Creamy Baked Feta with Olives & Sun-Dried Tomatoes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Baked Feta with Olives & Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a delightful appetizer bursting with flavor and incredibly easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 8 oz block of feta cheese (preferably in brine)
- 1 cup pitted olives (green, Kalamata, or a mix)
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (preferably packed in oil)
- ⅓ cup olive oil (extra virgin is best)
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- ½ tsp each: dried oregano, dried thyme, and dried rosemary
- Kosher salt & cracked black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- Sliced French bread or crostini, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F; this temperature is ideal for baking the feta until it’s warm and creamy. Place your block of feta cheese in a small baking dish.
- Scatter the pitted olives and the sun-dried tomatoes around the feta.
- In a small bowl, mix together the extra virgin olive oil, thinly sliced garlic, dried oregano, thyme, rosemary, salt, and cracked black pepper. Drizzle this mixture over the feta and vegetables.
- Bake the dish in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, then switch to broil for an additional 1–2 minutes for a golden crust.
- Remove from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve warm with crostini or sliced French bread.
Notes
Using feta cheese preserved in brine will result in a creamier and tastier outcome; remember to drain it before use.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
Nutrition
- Calories: 160 kcal
- Sodium: 360 mg
- Protein: 6 g