Description
Baked Feta with Olives & Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Ingredients:
8 oz block feta cheese
1 cup pitted olives, drained
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes
⅓ cup olive oil
3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
½ tsp each dried oregano, thyme, and rosemary
Kosher salt and cracked pepper, to taste
Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
French bread or crostini, for serving
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place the block of feta in the center of a baking dish and arrange olives and sun-dried tomatoes around it.
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, sliced garlic, oregano, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Drizzle this mixture over the feta, olives, and tomatoes.
Bake for 20 minutes, then broil on high for an additional 1-2 minutes until the feta is golden and bubbly.
Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm with French bread or crostini for dipping.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Kcal: 300 per serving | Servings: 4
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect baked feta every time. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Select a small baking dish or oven-safe skillet. Place the 8 oz block of feta directly in the center. Drain 1 cup of pitted olives and ½ cup of sun-dried tomatoes (if packed in oil, a light pat dry is helpful). Scatter them around the cheese. Next, thinly slice 3 cloves of garlic. In a separate bowl, whisk together ⅓ cup olive oil, the sliced garlic, ½ tsp each of dried oregano, thyme, and rosemary, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour this aromatic oil evenly over everything in the dish. Bake on the middle rack for 20 minutes, then switch the oven to broil on high for 1-2 final minutes to achieve a beautifully golden, bubbly top. Watch closely during broiling to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
While crusty French bread or crostini are classic, this dish is incredibly versatile. For a low-carb option, serve with sliced cucumber, bell pepper strips, or endive leaves. It also makes a fantastic topping for a grain bowl with quinoa or farro, or can be tossed into hot pasta for a quick, creamy sauce. Consider adding a side of spicy honey or a balsamic glaze drizzle for a sweet and tangy contrast.
How-to Summary
In summary: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place feta in a dish surrounded by olives and sun-dried tomatoes. Whisk olive oil with garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper, then pour over the dish. Bake for 20 minutes, then broil for 1-2 minutes until golden. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with your chosen dippers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use crumbled feta instead of a block? No, a solid block is essential. Crumbled feta will dry out and not achieve the desired creamy, dip-able texture.
What type of olives work best? A mix like Kalamata and Castelvetrano offers a great balance of briny and buttery flavors. Any pitted olive you enjoy will work.
Can I make this ahead of time? You can assemble the dish (add the oil and herbs) up to 2 hours before baking and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving.
How do I store leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Can I add other ingredients? Absolutely! Try adding artichoke hearts, red pepper flakes for heat, or fresh basil after baking for a flavor boost.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using crumbled feta: This is the top mistake. It will not melt properly.
- Over-broiling: The broil step is quick. Stay by the oven to prevent the garlic and cheese from burning.
- Skipping the herb infusion: Whisking the herbs into the warm oil before pouring releases their essential oils, creating a far more flavorful dish than sprinkling dried herbs directly on the cheese.
- Serving cold: This dish is best served warm, when the feta is soft and spreadable.
Conclusion
This Baked Feta with Olives & Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a quintessential easy yet impressive appetizer. The process is simple, but following the detailed guide ensures a perfect, creamy, and herb-infused result every time. By avoiding common pitfalls and exploring the serving suggestions, you can adapt this versatile dish for any occasion. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that combines minimal effort with maximum flavor.