Description
Mediterranean Baked Feta delivers pure Mediterranean charm straight to your table. Roasted tomatoes, herbs, and creamy cheese combine for a simple yet spectacular starter that sparks conversation at any gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 block Greek feta cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- ¾ cup mixed olives
Supporting Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon capers
- 1 teaspoon whole mustard seeds
Seasoning Ingredients:
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Fresh thyme sprigs
- Fresh oregano sprigs
- Cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Warm your oven to 375°F. Nestle the entire 200g feta block directly into a small baking dish.
- Distribute 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes and ¾ cup mixed olives around the feta. Sprinkle 1 tsp capers if desired.
- Drizzle 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil generously across the cheese and vegetables. Ensure complete coverage.
- Dust ½ tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp dried oregano, and cracked black pepper over the dish. Scatter whole mustard seeds evenly.
- Tuck fresh thyme or oregano sprigs strategically around the feta for aromatic infusion.
- Slide the baking dish into the preheated 375°F oven. Roast for exactly 20-25 minutes until feta softens and tomatoes blister.
- Listen for mustard seeds to pop slightly, signaling your appetizer has reached perfect doneness.
- Remove from oven and serve immediately alongside warm crusty baguette or pita. Spoon the fragrant olive oil and roasted bits onto each serving.
Notes
- Choose high-quality Greek feta for the best creamy texture and tangy flavor in this dish.
- Opt for ripe, sweet cherry tomatoes that will caramelize beautifully during roasting and release their natural juices.
- Fresh herbs make a significant difference, so use them generously and add right before serving to preserve their bright flavor.
- For a gluten-free version, serve with gluten-free crackers or roasted vegetable slices instead of bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Baked
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 540 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 1200 mg
- Fat: 45 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 30 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg