Mediterranean Baked Feta with Olives & Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This Mediterranean Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish. A block of creamy feta cheese is baked with a medley of briny olives, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and aromatic herbs in a drizzle of olive oil. As it bakes, the flavors meld together, creating a rich, savory appetizer perfect for dipping with crusty bread or serving alongside grilled meats. This dish is naturally vegetarian, gluten-free, and full of Mediterranean goodness!
Time Breakdown
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Baked Feta:
1 block (8 oz) feta cheese (Greek or French)
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
½ cup mixed olives (Kalamata, green,
or your choice)
⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed, drained, or dry-packed and rehydrated)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Zest of ½ lemon
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon capers (optional, for extra briny flavor)
1 teaspoon honey (optional, balances flavors)
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Serving:
Crusty bread, pita chips, or crackers
Fresh herbs (parsley, basil, or rosemary for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Assemble the Dish
1. In a small baking dish, place the feta block in the center.
2. Drizzle olive oil over the feta.
3. Scatter the olives, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes around the feta.
4. Sprinkle with lemon zest, lemon juice, capers (if using), and honey.
5. Season with black pepper (feta is already salty, so extra salt is usually unnecessary).
Step 3: Bake the Feta
1. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until the feta softens and turns slightly golden on the edges.
2. If you prefer a more caramelized top, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.
Step 4: Serve & Garnish
1. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley, basil, or rosemary.
3. Serve warm with crusty bread, pita chips, or crackers.
Notes & Variations
Make it Spicier: Add more red pepper flakes or a chopped fresh chili.
Add More Texture: Sprinkle with chopped nuts like walnuts or pine nuts before serving.
Vegan Option: Use dairy-free feta and omit honey.
Make Ahead: Assemble everything and store in the fridge until ready to bake.
Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Questions & Answers
Q: Can I use crumbled feta instead of a block?
A: A block works best, but you can use crumbled feta in a small baking dish—just reduce baking time to 15 minutes.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble it ahead and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Q: What can I pair this with?
A: Serve with hummus, tzatziki, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables for a Mediterranean feast.
Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?
A: Yes! Use cherry tomatoes, but they will release more moisture during baking.
Q: Can I make this in an air fryer?
A: Yes! Bake at 350°F for 12-15 minutes until warmed through.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~250
Protein: ~7g
Carbohydrates: ~5g
Fiber: ~1g
Fats: ~22g
Saturated Fat: ~9g
Sodium: ~600mg
Sugar: ~2g