Marinated Feta Cheese with Herbs recipe

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!

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