Baked Feta with Cherry Tomatoes and Olives
Baked Feta with Cherry Tomatoes and Olives is a simple yet flavorful Mediterranean dish that combines creamy, slightly tangy feta cheese with sweet roasted cherry tomatoes, briny olives, and aromatic herbs. This dish is perfect as an appetizer, a side dish, or a light meal when served with crusty bread or over pasta.
Prep & Cook Time
Total Time: ~30 minutes
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
(Serves 2-3)
Main Ingredients:
1 block (7-8 oz) feta cheese
1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup Kalamata or green olives, pitted and halved
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional, for added depth)
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp dried oregano (or 1 tsp fresh oregano)
½ tsp dried thyme (or 1 tsp fresh thyme)
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
For Serving (Optional):
Sliced crusty bread (baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough)
Cooked pasta or couscous
Crackers for dipping
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients
1. In a baking dish, spread out the cherry tomatoes and olives.
2. Add minced garlic, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then toss everything together.
Step 3: Add the Feta
1. Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the dish.
2. Drizzle a little olive oil over the feta and season with black pepper.
Step 4: Bake the Dish
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tomatoes are blistered and the feta is soft and golden on the edges.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
1. Remove from the oven and let cool for a minute.
2. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
3. Serve warm with toasted bread, crackers, or over pasta.
Notes & Tips
For extra flavor: Add capers, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers.
Make it heartier: Serve over quinoa, rice, or orzo for a more filling meal.
Want it creamier? Mash the baked feta and mix it with the roasted tomatoes for a spreadable dip.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use crumbled feta instead of a block?
A block is best for baking, but crumbled feta can work if baked in a smaller dish to prevent drying out.
2. Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Try adding sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra texture.
3. What bread pairs best with this dish?
Crusty bread like sourdough, baguette, or ciabatta works well to scoop up the creamy feta and juices.
4. Is there a dairy-free alternative?
Use a plant-based feta alternative for a vegan-friendly version.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 280
Protein: 9g
Carbs: 10g
Fat:23g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
This Baked Feta with Cherry Tomatoes and Olives is a delicious, easy-to-make Mediterranean dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether as a dip, spread, or topping, it’s guaranteed to impress!