Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe
If you’re searching for a show-stopping appetizer that’s as easy to make as it is impressive, Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is about to become your new favorite. Imagine a block of creamy feta, gently roasted until it turns irresistibly soft and golden, then topped with briny olives and sweet-tart sun-dried tomatoes. Drizzled with olive oil and brightened with fresh herbs, each bite is bursting with Mediterranean sunshine. Whether you’re throwing a dinner party or just craving something special, this dish is pure magic in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple, high-quality ingredients. Each one brings something unique to the table—creamy, tangy, salty, and vibrant flavors all working in perfect harmony. Here’s what you’ll need for your Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
- Feta Cheese: Use a whole block (7–8 oz) for the creamiest, most decadent result—crumbled feta just won’t have the same melt-in-your-mouth effect.
- Mixed Olives: A mix of pitted green and black olives adds a lovely contrast in flavor and color; feel free to use your favorites or whatever you have on hand.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Choose oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drain them well, and chop for a pop of chewy, tangy-sweet flavor.
- Olive Oil: Use a good-quality extra virgin olive oil to drizzle over everything—it brings a beautiful richness and helps everything roast to perfection.
- Dried Oregano: A classic Mediterranean herb, oregano adds earthy depth and a familiar aroma that ties all the flavors together.
- Red Pepper Flakes (optional): Sprinkle on for a gentle heat that wakes up the palate, or leave them out if you prefer it mild.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Just a few grinds for a subtle kick and to balance the salty feta.
- Fresh Basil or Parsley: Add a final sprinkle of chopped herbs for a hit of freshness and color right before serving.
- Crusty Bread or Crackers: The essential vehicle for scooping up all that melty, savory goodness—don’t skip this!
How to Make Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is just right for gently roasting the feta, letting it soften without completely melting, while coaxing out the best flavors from the olives and sun-dried tomatoes.
Step 2: Assemble the Dish
Find a small oven-safe baking dish or pan that fits the block of feta snugly. Place the feta in the center, then scatter the pitted olives and chopped sun-dried tomatoes both around and on top. This ensures every bite is loaded with those bold, savory flavors.
Step 3: Season and Drizzle
Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the feta and toppings. Sprinkle the dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if you like things a little spicy), and a few cracks of black pepper across the whole dish. The olive oil not only adds flavor but helps everything roast up beautifully.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Soft
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the feta looks soft and slightly golden at the edges, and the olives and tomatoes are sizzling. The aroma at this stage is absolutely mouthwatering!
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Carefully remove the dish from the oven and immediately scatter over some chopped fresh basil or parsley. Serve the Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes warm, straight from the dish, with plenty of crusty bread or crackers for dipping. It’s best enjoyed right away while everything is melty and inviting.
How to Serve Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Garnishes
A generous shower of fresh basil or parsley right before serving makes this dish feel extra special. You could also add a sprinkling of lemon zest or a few toasted pine nuts for crunch and brightness. Don’t be afraid to make it your own.
Side Dishes
While Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a star appetizer on its own, it also pairs beautifully alongside a crisp Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple platter of sliced cucumbers and tomatoes. For a more substantial spread, offer it with grilled meats or seafood.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the baked feta in individual ramekins for a dinner party, or spread it over warm flatbread and top with extra herbs for a rustic Mediterranean flatbread. It’s also fantastic tucked into a grain bowl or used as a topping for roasted chicken or fish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare!), let the Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes cool to room temperature. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen as it sits, making it a tasty addition to salads or sandwiches the next day.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this dish, as feta and olives can change texture when thawed. For the freshest results, prepare and enjoy it the day you plan to serve.
Reheating
To reheat, place the leftovers in an oven-safe dish and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the feta rubbery and unevenly heated.
FAQs
Can I use crumbled feta instead of a block?
A block of feta is highly recommended for this recipe because it bakes up creamy and holds its shape. Crumbled feta may melt unevenly and won’t deliver the same luscious texture you get with Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes.
Which olives work best?
Feel free to use your favorite variety—Kalamata, Castelvetrano, or a mix all work beautifully. Just be sure they’re pitted for easy eating and maximum enjoyment!
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Roasted garlic cloves, cherry tomatoes, or even artichoke hearts are delicious additions. Experiment to find your perfect version of Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, the main recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just serve it with gluten-free bread or crackers if you need to keep things completely gluten-free for your guests.
Can I make Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes ahead of time?
While it’s best fresh from the oven, you can assemble the dish (without baking) a few hours ahead and refrigerate. Simply bake just before serving so everyone can enjoy that warm, melty feta goodness.
Final Thoughts
If you haven’t tried Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes yet, now’s the time! This vibrant, easy dish is always a hit, whether you’re serving friends or treating yourself to a cozy night in. Grab some feta and your favorite olives—you’re just half an hour away from Mediterranean bliss!
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Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and easy-to-make Mediterranean appetizer featuring creamy baked feta cheese topped with mixed olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs. Perfect for serving warm with crusty bread or crackers for a flavorful party snack or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 block feta cheese (7–8 oz)
- 1/3 cup mixed olives (pitted)
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil, drained and chopped)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Garnish & Serving
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
- Crusty bread or crackers for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the feta evenly.
- Prepare Feta and Toppings: Place the block of feta cheese in a small oven-safe dish or baking pan. Scatter the mixed olives and chopped sun-dried tomatoes evenly around and over the feta to ensure every bite is flavorful.
- Add Olive Oil and Seasonings: Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the feta and toppings. Sprinkle with dried oregano, red pepper flakes if using for a spicy kick, and freshly ground black pepper to taste for seasoning.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the feta is soft and slightly golden on the edges, indicating it’s melted and warmed through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and fresh aroma. Serve warm alongside crusty bread or crackers for dipping and enjoying the melted feta and savory toppings.
Notes
- This dish is easily customizable—try adding roasted garlic cloves, cherry tomatoes, or a drizzle of honey before baking for extra flavor.
- Best served warm immediately out of the oven for optimal taste and texture.
- To keep it gluten-free, serve without bread or choose gluten-free crackers.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
