Sunny Mediterranean Baked Feta, Olives & Tomato Delight Recipe

Weeknight dinners transform when you toss a mediterranean baked feta into the mix, creating a vibrant and effortless meal that feels like a sun-soaked escape.

Briny olives and sweet sun-dried tomatoes dance around golden, creamy cheese, promising a flavor explosion.

Herbs and olive oil mingle, releasing an intoxicating aroma that fills your kitchen.

This simple yet stunning dish comes together in minutes, requiring minimal effort for maximum impact.

Each bite transports you to a coastal Mediterranean village, where fresh ingredients reign supreme.

Serve this crowd-pleasing recipe with crusty bread to soak up every delicious drop.

Mediterranean Feta Olive Bake Serving Ideas

• Rustic Appetizer Platter: Arrange the baked feta with fresh bread, crisp cucumber slices, and a small bowl of mixed olives for a stunning Mediterranean-style starter that's perfect for sharing.
• Salad Topper Magic: Crumble the warm, herbed feta over a crisp green salad with mixed Mediterranean vegetables to add rich, tangy flavor and transform a simple salad into a gourmet experience.
• Mezze Board Centerpiece: Create a vibrant mezze board by placing the baked feta as the star, surrounding it with hummus, marinated artichokes, roasted red peppers, and warm pita bread for an impressive spread.

Storing Mediterranean Feta Olive Bake Properly

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator, ensuring the dish is completely cooled before sealing.
• Warm the baked feta at 350°F for 8-10 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out and maintain its creamy texture.
• Quickly reheat in short 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly and prevent overheating.
• Not recommended due to the delicate texture of feta and potential separation of ingredients when thawed.

FAQs

• What type of feta cheese works best for this recipe?

Choose a block of high-quality Greek or Bulgarian feta cheese made from sheep’s or goat’s milk, as these varieties offer richer flavor and creamier texture compared to mass-produced options.

• Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?

Yes, you can substitute dried herbs for fresh ones. Use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. For example, if the recipe calls for 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, use 1 teaspoon dried oregano.

• How do I know when the feta is perfectly baked?

The feta should look slightly softened, golden around the edges, and have a creamy consistency. When you see light browning on top after broiling and the cheese appears slightly melted, it’s ready to serve.

• What are some tips for achieving the best flavor?

What Makes Mediterranean Feta Olive Bake Special

• Savor Mediterranean Flavors: Dive into a delightful dish that transports your taste buds to the sunny coastlines of Greece and Italy with every bite.
• Minimal Prep, Maximum Taste: Whip up this impressive appetizer in just a few simple steps, requiring minimal cooking skills and basic ingredients.
• Perfect Party Pleaser: Impress guests with a visually stunning and deliciously aromatic dish that's ideal for gatherings, wine nights, or casual get-togethers.
• Versatile Serving Option: Enjoy as a warm, gooey appetizer spread on crispy bread or use as a flavorful topping for salads, pasta, or grilled meats.

Mediterranean Feta Olive Bake Ingredient Guide

• Feta Cheese: A tangy and creamy Greek cheese that becomes soft and slightly melted when baked.

• Olives, Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Provide a rich Mediterranean flavor and add depth to the dish.
• Garlic: Adds a sharp and pungent taste that complements the cheese.

• Olive Oil: Creates a flavorful base and helps to infuse the herbs into the dish.
• Oregano, Thyme, Rosemary: Fragrant herbs that bring traditional Mediterranean seasoning.
• Salt, Pepper: Enhance and balance the overall flavor profile.

• Parsley: Adds a fresh, bright green color and a light herbal note.
• French Bread, Crostini: Perfect for dipping and enjoying the warm, baked cheese.

Steps For Mediterranean Feta Olive Bake Success

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Set your oven to a cozy 350 degrees Fahrenheit, creating the perfect environment for a delicious Mediterranean adventure.

Step 2: Position the Feta

Gently place the creamy feta cheese in a small baking dish, preparing it for its flavor transformation.

Step 3: Sprinkle Flavor Companions

• Briny olives
• Tangy sun-dried tomatoes

Step 4: Create Aromatic Infusion

• Extra virgin olive oil
• Freshly sliced garlic
• Fragrant oregano
• Delicate thyme
• Earthy rosemary
• A pinch of salt
• A dash of black pepper

Step 5: Drench with Liquid Gold

Generously pour the herbed olive oil mixture over the feta, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes, ensuring every morsel gets kissed by the marinade.

Step 6: Bake and Broil

Bake for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify.

Then switch to broil for a quick 1-2 minutes to create a golden, slightly crispy top.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish.

Serve alongside crusty French bread or crisp crostini for a perfect Mediterranean-inspired appetizer.

Mediterranean Feta Olive Bake Top Tips

• Let the herbs and garlic sit in olive oil for 10-15 minutes before pouring over cheese to enhance their aromatic qualities.
• Use a ceramic or glass baking dish to retain moisture and ensure feta remains creamy and soft during baking.
• Choose high-quality Greek feta cheese with higher fat content for richer, more authentic Mediterranean taste.
• Experiment with fresh versus dried herbs – fresh herbs provide brighter flavor while dried herbs offer deeper, concentrated taste profiles.
• Watch carefully during broiling to achieve golden-brown top without burning cheese or herbs, as it happens quickly.

Flavor Variations For Mediterranean Feta Olive Bake

• Vegan Herb Roasted Tofu: Replace feta with firm tofu, using nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor and plant-based herbs.
• Low-Sodium Mediterranean Blend: Reduce salt, use fresh herbs, and select low-sodium olives for heart-conscious individuals.
• Goat Cheese Mediterranean Style: Swap feta with creamy goat cheese, maintaining similar texture and tangy Mediterranean profile.
• Dairy-Free Mediterranean Spread: Use cashew cheese alternative, incorporating same herbs and roasting technique for lactose-intolerant people.

Mediterranean with Baked Feta, Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe

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4.8 from 15 reviews

• Total Time: 32 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Mediterranean magic comes alive in this feta-centered feast, where tangy cheese meets robust Mediterranean flavors. Olive oil, herbs, and fresh ingredients blend seamlessly, inviting you to savor a culinary journey through sun-drenched landscapes and coastal charm.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) feta cheese
• 1 cup pitted olives
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes
• 3 cloves garlic

Herbs and Seasonings:

• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Kosher salt
• Fresh cracked pepper

Oil and Garnish:

• 1/3 cup olive oil
• Fresh chopped parsley
• Sliced French bread or crostini

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Instructions

1. Arrange oven rack in the middle position and heat to 350°F, creating an ideal environment for baking the Mediterranean-style dish.
2. Select a small ceramic or glass baking dish and carefully position the entire block of feta cheese in the center.
3. Artfully distribute the briny olives and vibrant sun-dried tomatoes around the feta, creating a visually appealing presentation.
4. Create a fragrant herb-infused oil by whisking together olive oil, thinly sliced garlic, dried oregano, fresh thyme, crumbled rosemary, and a delicate sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
5. Gently cascade the aromatic herb oil over the feta, ensuring the cheese and surrounding ingredients are evenly coated with the flavorful mixture.
6. Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, allowing the cheese to soften and develop a rich, creamy texture.
7. Switch the oven to broil and cook for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to achieve a golden-brown top without burning.
8. Remove from the oven and immediately garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
9. Serve piping hot alongside crisp French bread or toasted crostini, perfect for scooping up the melted cheese and herb-infused oil.

Notes

• Swap feta for dairy-free alternatives like vegan cheese or nutritional yeast to accommodate plant-based diets.
• Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for enhanced Mediterranean flavor and rich antioxidant benefits.
• Choose soft, creamy feta cheese for the most meltable and luxurious texture when baked.
• Adjust herb quantities based on personal preference, ensuring a balanced and aromatic final dish.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 22 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 435 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 950 mg
• Fat: 40 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 27 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 6 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 9 g
• Cholesterol: 25 mg