Name: Baked Feta with Olives & Sun-Dried Tomatoes: An Incredible 5-Star Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 8 ounces feta cheese (block); 1 cup assorted olives (pitted, halved); ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Baked Feta with Olives & Sun-Dried Tomatoes: An Incredible 5-Star Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Baked Feta is the ultimate fusion of salty, tangy, and savory flavors. The creamy feta melts beautifully in the oven, blending perfectly with the olives and sun-dried tomatoes. A touch of garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes adds a nice layer of flavor and heat, and a drizzle of olive oil brings it all together. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare and bakes in just 20 minutes, making it a perfect go-to for a quick but impressive appetizer.

Ingredients

8 ounces feta cheese (block)
1 cup assorted olives (pitted, halved)
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a small baking dish or oven-safe skillet with a drizzle of olive oil.
Arrange the Feta: Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the dish.
Add Olives and Tomatoes: Scatter the halved olives and chopped sun-dried tomatoes around the feta.
Season the Dish: Sprinkle the minced garlic, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper over the entire mixture.
Drizzle with Olive Oil: Pour the olive oil generously over the feta and the surrounding ingredients.
Bake in the Oven: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the feta is soft and slightly golden.
Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Add Fresh Herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano for an even fresher flavor.
Spicy Kick: If you like heat, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil.
Other Cheeses: Try swapping the feta for other cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta for a different texture and flavor.
Add Veggies: Add roasted bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or zucchini for an even heartier dish.
Make It Vegan: If you’re vegan, try using plant-based feta or another non-dairy cheese as a substitute.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes or in the microwave for a few seconds. Keep an eye on the feta to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

1. Can I use crumbled feta instead of a block?

Yes, you can use crumbled feta, but a block of feta tends to melt better and retain its shape during baking, giving you that nice, gooey texture.

2. Can I use jarred sun-dried tomatoes instead of the oil-packed kind?

You can, but oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes give the dish a richer flavor and help in keeping the feta moist during baking. If you use dried tomatoes, soak them in warm water for 10-15 minutes before using.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare everything in advance, cover the baking dish, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, just bake it in the oven for 20-25 minutes.

4. Can I use other types of olives?

Absolutely! You can use Kalamata olives, green olives, or any type of pitted olives you prefer.

5. How do I serve this dish?

Serve this dish with crusty bread, pita, or crackers for dipping. It’s also a great accompaniment to a fresh salad or as part of a Mediterranean-style spread.

6. Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to serve it with gluten-free bread or crackers if needed.

7. Can I bake this dish in a larger dish?

Yes, if you’re making a larger batch, you can bake it in a larger dish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, and check that the feta is soft and golden before removing from the oven.

8. Can I freeze leftover Baked Feta?

While feta can be frozen, the texture may change once reheated. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers for up to 1 month. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator and then warm in the oven.

9. Can I add more garlic to this dish?

Yes, if you’re a garlic fan, feel free to increase the garlic amount to suit your taste.

10. Can I serve this as a main dish?

While this is often served as an appetizer, you can definitely serve it as a main dish, especially if you pair it with a larger salad, roasted veggies, or grilled meats.

Conclusion

Baked Feta with Olives & Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a simple yet stunning dish that brings a delightful burst of Mediterranean flavors to your table. The combination of creamy feta, briny olives, and sweet sun-dried tomatoes creates a mouthwatering, satisfying experience. With minimal ingredients and just a little bit of preparation, you’ll have a dish that’s sure to impress your guests or provide a comforting snack for yourself. Enjoy this recipe at your next gathering or as a cozy treat for a quiet evening!

Baked Feta with Olives & Sun-Dried Tomatoes: An Incredible 5-Star Recipe