This Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a delightful Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines the tangy taste of feta cheese with the robust flavors of olives and sun-dried tomatoes. Baked to perfection with herbs and olive oil, this dish makes a perfect appetizer or a great addition to a tapas night.
Ingredients:
- 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
Directions:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a fresh, colorful finish.
- 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.
Conclusion:
This Baked Feta with Olives & Sun-Dried Tomatoes is not only simple and quick to prepare but also offers a burst of Mediterranean flavors that are sure to impress. It’s perfect for entertaining or as a luxurious treat for yourself. Enjoy the creamy, salty feta with the tangy accompaniments in a dish that celebrates the simplicity and richness of traditional flavors.