Marinated Feta Cheese with Herbs recipe
Marinated feta is a versatile appetizer or topping that brings together creamy feta cheese, aromatic herbs, and rich olive oil. Perfect for pairing with crusty bread, salads, or charcuterie boards, it’s a quick yet elegant dish that enhances any meal.
Ingredients:
200 g feta cheese (block, not crumbled)
1/2 cup (120 ml) extra virgin olive oil
2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
1 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp cracked black pepper
1/4 cup fresh herbs (e.g., rosemary, parsley, or basil, roughly chopped)
1/4 cup sundried tomatoes (optional, chopped)
Zest of 1 lemon
Sterilized jar (for storage)
Instructions:
Preparation
Cut the feta: Slice the feta into cubes (about 1-inch pieces) or leave it in larger chunks based on your preference.
⏰ Time: 2-3 minutes
Prepare the marinade:
a. In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, chili flakes, oregano, thyme, black pepper, and lemon zest.
b. Add fresh herbs and sundried tomatoes (if using).
⏰ Time: 5 minutes
Assemble:
a. Place a layer of feta cubes in a sterilized jar.
b. Pour a portion of the marinade over the feta.
c. Repeat in layers until the jar is full, ensuring the feta is completely submerged in the oil.
⏰ Time: 5 minutes
Marinate:
Seal the jar tightly and refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours, but ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
⏰ Marinating Time: 4-24 hours (passive time)
Tips
Choosing Feta: Use a firm block of feta cheese for best results. Avoid pre-crumbled feta as it doesn’t hold its shape well.
Oil Quality: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for a flavorful marinade.
Storage: The marinated feta can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks as long as it’s fully submerged in oil.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with toasted baguette slices or crackers.
Use as a topping for Greek salads or roasted vegetables.
Stir into warm pasta or grains for an instant flavor boost.
Nutritional Information (per 50g serving)
Calories: 150
Protein: 4 g
Fat: 14 g (mostly healthy fats from olive oil)
Carbohydrates: 1 g
Fiber: <1 g
Sodium: 350 mg
Notes:
Adjust herbs and spices to suit your taste. For example, add dill for a unique flavor or replace chili flakes with smoked paprika.
If the oil solidifies in the fridge, let the jar sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Enjoy this simple yet flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish!