Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a simple yet delicious appetizer that is perfect for any occasion.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is incredibly easy to make and bursting with Mediterranean flavors. The combination of creamy feta cheese, salty olives, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes creates a dish that is sure to impress your guests.

How to Make Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Ingredients:

• 1 (8-ounce) block feta cheese
• 1 cup pitted olives, drained
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, preferably oil-packed, drained and chopped
• ⅓ cup olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Fresh cracked pepper, to taste
• Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
• Sliced French bread or crostini, for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature will gently warm the feta and allow it to take on the flavors of the accompanying ingredients.
2. Prepare the Feta: Place the block of feta cheese in the center of a small baking dish. You can use a ceramic or glass dish that is just big enough to hold the cheese and toppings snugly.
3. Add Toppings: Scatter the pitted olives and chopped sun-dried tomatoes around and on top of the feta cheese. Distribute the thinly sliced garlic evenly over the cheese and other ingredients.
4. Drizzle with Olive Oil: Drizzle the olive oil over the entire dish, making sure to coat the cheese and toppings. This will help infuse flavor into the cheese and keep it moist during baking.
5. Season: Sprinkle the dried oregano, thyme, and rosemary over the cheese and toppings. Season with kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste. Be moderate with the salt, as feta and olives already contain salt.
6. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the feta is softened and the olives and sun-dried tomatoes are heated through.
7. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a fresh, colorful finish.

How to Serve Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Serve the baked feta warm, accompanied by slices of French bread or crostini for dipping into the seasoned oil and topping with the soft cheese.

How to Store Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Store any leftover baked feta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in a preheated oven until warmed through.

Tips to Make Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

• Use a good quality feta cheese for the best flavor.
• Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
• Feel free to add additional toppings such as roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts for extra flavor.

Variation

You can add roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts for extra flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use crumbled feta cheese instead of a block? Yes, you can use crumbled feta cheese if you prefer. Simply place it in the baking dish and follow the recipe as directed.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? While it’s best served fresh out of the oven, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes? Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but keep in mind that they will release more liquid during baking, which may affect the texture of the dish. Adjust the cooking time as needed.