Easy Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe

Creamy Baked Feta with Briny Olives & Sweet Sun-Dried Tomatoes: The Ultimate Easy, Viral Appetizer

⚖️
Difficulty
Easy

⏲️
Prep Time
5 mins

🕒
Cook Time
25 mins

⏱️
Total Time
30 mins

🍽
Servings
4

This creamy baked feta with briny olives and sweet sun-dried tomatoes is the ultimate easy, viral appetizer that has taken the culinary world by storm. Imagine a block of feta cheese, transformed in the oven into a warm, impossibly creamy dip, surrounded by a vibrant, savory mix of olives and tomatoes. The result is a dish that feels incredibly luxurious yet requires almost no effort, making it the perfect solution for busy hosts and home cooks alike. Furthermore, its stunning visual appeal and incredible flavor profile make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any gathering.

The magic of this Mediterranean dip lies in its simplicity and the way heat coaxes out the deepest flavors from each ingredient. As the feta bakes, it softens into a luscious, spreadable consistency, while the olives become even more intense and the sun-dried tomatoes caramelize slightly, concentrating their sweetness. This combination creates a symphony of salty, tangy, and sweet notes that dance on your palate. Consequently, every scoop onto a piece of crusty bread delivers a complex taste experience that belies the minimal preparation involved.

Social media platforms exploded with variations of this concept, proving that sometimes the best recipes are the simplest. This particular version, featuring olives and sun-dried tomatoes, elevates the basic formula with additional layers of flavor and texture. It is a testament to the power of the Mediterranean diet, showcasing how a few high-quality ingredients can create something truly extraordinary. Ultimately, this baked feta recipe is more than just a trend; it is a modern classic that deserves a permanent place in your entertaining repertoire.

Quick Recipe Highlights

  • Flavor Profile: This dish delivers a masterful balance of salty, tangy, and sweet. The sharp, salty feta mellows into creaminess, which is perfectly countered by the briny punch of kalamata olives and the rich, concentrated sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes. A backdrop of garlic and herbs ties everything together with aromatic warmth.
  • Texture: The texture journey is a key part of the experience. You get the luxuriously soft, almost dip-like consistency of the baked feta against the meaty chew of sun-dried tomatoes and the firm pop of the olives. When spread on crunchy crostini or pita, it creates a perfect mouthfeel.
  • Aroma: As it bakes, your kitchen will fill with an irresistible Mediterranean fragrance. The primary aromatic notes are the savory, salty scent of melting cheese, the herbal aroma of oregano and thyme, the pungent warmth of garlic, and the fruity essence of olive oil and tomatoes.
  • Visual Appeal: This dish is a feast for the eyes with its stunning color contrast. The white, creamy feta center is surrounded by a vibrant mosaic of deep purple olives, ruby-red tomatoes, and green herbs. It looks rustic, elegant, and incredibly inviting straight from the oven.
  • Skill Level Needed: This is a true beginner-friendly recipe. Absolutely no advanced techniques are required. If you can use a knife to roughly chop and an oven to bake, you can achieve perfect, restaurant-quality results with this easy appetizer.
  • Special Equipment: You need only the most basic kitchen tools. A small baking dish or oven-safe skillet is essential. Beyond that, you will need a cutting board and knife for prepping the olives and garlic, making this an accessible recipe for any kitchen.

Recipe Overview

  • Difficulty Level: We classify this creamy baked feta as easy because it involves zero complicated techniques. There is no sauteing, whisking, or precise temperature control needed. You simply combine ingredients in a dish and bake. The oven does all the work, transforming the components effortlessly. This makes it foolproof for cooks of any experience level.
  • Category: This versatile dish fits into multiple categories beautifully. It shines as a standout appetizer or party dip. Additionally, it can serve as a luxurious sauce for pasta, a flavorful topping for grilled chicken or fish, or even a sophisticated sandwich spread. Its flexibility is one of its greatest strengths.
  • Cuisine: This recipe is firmly rooted in the traditions of Mediterranean cuisine, drawing inspiration from Greek and Italian flavors. The use of feta, olives, olive oil, and oregano is classic. However, the specific combination and baking method give it a modern, viral twist that feels both timeless and contemporary.
  • Cost: This is a very cost-effective dish, especially considering its impressive presentation. A block of feta, a jar of olives, and sun-dried tomatoes are relatively inexpensive pantry staples. The olive oil and herbs are typically kitchen staples. Therefore, you can create a show-stopping appetizer for a group without straining your grocery budget.
  • Season: This baked feta is truly a dish for all seasons. It is comforting and warm during the cooler autumn and winter months. Conversely, its bright, Mediterranean flavors also feel perfectly light and appropriate for spring and summer entertaining, especially when served with fresh, seasonal vegetables for dipping.
  • Occasion: It is the perfect appetizer for virtually any occasion. It is ideal for casual game days, elegant dinner parties, holiday gatherings, potlucks, or even a simple weeknight treat. Its universal appeal and easy preparation make it a reliable go-to recipe for any event.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Feta Recipe

You will adore the incredible taste and texture of this creamy baked feta. The transformation that occurs in the oven is nothing short of magical. The feta, which starts firm and crumbly, softens into a warm, velvety, and spreadable dip that is rich and tangy. Paired with the chewy, sweet sun-dried tomatoes and the salty, firm olives, every bite is a complex and satisfying experience. The flavors are robust and deeply savory, creating a dip that is far greater than the sum of its parts. It is a sensory delight that will have everyone coming back for more.

The convenience factor of this viral appetizer is a major reason for its popularity. With only five minutes of active prep time, you can have this dish ready for the oven. There is no fussing over a stove or mastering difficult techniques. You simply assemble the ingredients and let the oven work its magic. This makes it an ideal recipe for busy weeknights, unexpected guests, or when you want to impress without stress. Furthermore, the cleanup is minimal, often requiring just one baking dish.

From a nutritional standpoint, this Mediterranean dip offers several benefits. Feta cheese is a good source of calcium and protein. Olives provide healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. Sun-dried tomatoes are packed with lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. When served with whole-grain bread or fresh vegetable crudites, it becomes a balanced snack or starter. This dish is a delicious way to incorporate the principles of the heart-healthy Mediterranean diet into your routine.

The social and entertaining value of this dish is immense. It is served warm and communal, straight from the baking dish, which encourages sharing and conversation. Its visually appealing, “foodie” quality makes it a fantastic centerpiece for a snack table. It is a guaranteed conversation starter, and its incredible flavor ensures it will be the first thing to disappear. Whether at a large party or an intimate gathering, this baked feta brings people together.

Finally, this recipe is remarkably cost-effective and accessible. The ingredients are not exotic or expensive. You can find them at any standard grocery store. A single block of feta and a few pantry staples can create an appetizer that generously serves four to six people. This makes it an economical choice for feeding a crowd without compromising on flavor or presentation. You get a gourmet-level result with a very modest investment.

Historical Background and Cultural Significance

The story of feta cheese is deeply woven into the history of Greece. Feta, which literally means “slice,” has been produced in Greece for centuries, with its production methods protected by European Union law. Traditionally, it was made by shepherds and farmers as a way to preserve sheep and goat milk. The practice of baking or warming cheese is also not new; various cultures have dishes where cheese is heated to alter its texture and flavor. However, the specific viral trend of baking a whole block of feta with tomatoes began in Finland before exploding globally on platforms like TikTok, showing how modern media can catapult a simple idea into an international phenomenon.

Culturally, this dish is a celebration of Mediterranean culinary principles. It embodies the ethos of using a few high-quality, flavorful ingredients to create something wonderful. Olives and olive oil are staples of the region, with olive trees being a symbol of peace and prosperity for millennia. Sun-dried tomatoes, while having roots in Italy as a preservation technique, have been adopted across the Mediterranean. This recipe, therefore, is a fusion of iconic elements from this beloved cuisine, repackaged for the modern home cook.

The evolution of the baked feta recipe is a fascinating study in digital-age recipe sharing. It started with a Finnish food blogger’s “uunifeta” recipe. Then, the “TikTok feta pasta” version took the world by storm, featuring cherry tomatoes. Creative cooks immediately began experimenting with variations. The addition of briny olives and sweet sun-dried tomatoes was a natural and logical progression, enhancing the flavor profile with more complexity and texture. This constant adaptation and improvement are hallmarks of how recipes evolve in the internet era.

Regional variations of this concept are endless, reflecting local tastes and ingredients. In Greece, one might find it baked with fresh oregano and capers. An Italian version could include basil and roasted bell peppers. Some Middle Eastern adaptations might add a drizzle of pomegranate molasses or a sprinkle of za’atar. This versatility is a testament to the solid foundation of the original concept. The basic formula of baked feta is a blank canvas, inviting cooks around the world to add their own cultural signature.

Ingredient Deep Dive

Feta cheese is the star of this show. Traditionally a Greek cheese made from sheep’s milk or a blend with goat’s milk, it has a tangy, salty flavor and a crumbly texture. When baked, it softens dramatically but doesn’t fully melt, becoming creamy and spreadable. Nutritionally, feta is a good source of calcium, protein, and phosphorus. It also contains beneficial probiotics. For the best results, always choose a block of feta packed in brine, as it will be more moist and flavorful than pre-crumbled varieties. If you need a substitution, a firm goat cheese or ricotta salata can work, though the flavor profile will change.

Kalamata olives bring a essential briny, salty depth to this Mediterranean dip. These olives, named after the city of Kalamata in Greece, are distinct for their almond shape and deep purple color. They are typically preserved in vinegar or olive oil, which intensifies their rich, fruity flavor. They are a key component of the Mediterranean diet, providing healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants like vitamin E and polyphenols. For this recipe, pitted olives are a convenience, but olives with pits often have superior flavor. If you cannot find Kalamatas, other briny olives like Gaeta or Niçoise are excellent substitutes.

Sun-dried tomatoes contribute a powerful sweet and tangy counterpoint to the salty elements. Originally from Italy, sun-drying is an ancient preservation method that concentrates the tomato’s sugars and umami flavors. They are packed with nutrients, including lycopene, an antioxidant linked to reduced risk of certain cancers and heart disease. They also provide fiber, potassium, and vitamin C. For this recipe, sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil are ideal because the oil itself can be used in the dish, adding extra flavor. If you only have dry-packed ones, simply rehydrate them in warm water for about 30 minutes before using.

Extra virgin olive oil is the liquid gold that brings everything together. It is not just a cooking medium; it is a critical flavor component. High-quality EVOO has fruity, peppery notes that enhance the other ingredients. It is a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet, renowned for its heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and anti-inflammatory properties. Always use the best quality you can afford for a dish where its flavor is so prominent. The aromatic herbs, typically oregano and thyme, provide the final layer of flavor. Dried herbs are actually preferable here as they hold up better to the extended heat, releasing their earthy, aromatic oils slowly throughout the baking process.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using Pre-Crumbled Feta: This is a critical error. Pre-crumbled feta contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from becoming properly creamy when baked. It will often result in a dry, grainy texture. Always use a solid block of feta stored in brine for the best, creamiest outcome.
  • Overbaking the Dish: While the feta needs time to soften, leaving it in the oven for too long can cause the cheese to release too much oil and become tough or rubbery. The goal is a warm, soft, and spreadable consistency, not a melted puddle. Stick to the recommended baking time.
  • Skipping the Olive Oil: Do not be shy with the olive oil. It is essential for creating a luxurious sauce and preventing the ingredients from drying out in the oven. The oil mingles with the juices from the tomatoes and feta, creating the delicious liquid that you will want to scoop up with bread.
  • Using Low-Quality Olive Oil: Since the flavor of the oil is a prominent feature in the final dish, using a bland or low-quality oil will result in a less flavorful appetizer. Invest in a good, fruity extra virgin olive oil for the best results.
  • Forgetting to Season: Even though feta and olives are salty, the other components need seasoning. A crack of black pepper and a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish significantly. Always taste and adjust seasoning after baking, before serving.
  • Not Letting it Rest: It is tempting to dig in immediately, but allowing the baked feta to rest for five minutes after coming out of the oven is crucial. This allows the cheese to set slightly and the flavors to meld together perfectly.
  • Using a Baking Dish That’s Too Large: If the baking dish is too big, the ingredients will spread out in a thin layer and can dry out or burn more easily. A snug-fitting dish ensures everything bakes together evenly and stays moist.
  • Overcrowding with Add-Ins: While customizing is encouraged, adding too many extra ingredients can throw off the moisture balance and prevent the feta from heating through properly. Stick to the core recipe for your first attempt before experimenting.

Essential Techniques

The primary technique in this recipe is oven-baking to transform texture. This gentle, indirect heat is crucial because it slowly warms the feta all the way through without causing it to separate or become oily. The oven’s ambient heat coaxes the moisture and fats within the cheese to soften and blend, creating that signature creamy dip. Mastering this simply means trusting the process and not opening the oven door frequently, which causes temperature fluctuations. The visual cue for success is a feta block that has softened, lost its sharp edges, and appears warm and jiggly, but is not leaking excessive amounts of white oil.

Another key technique is the art of ingredient assembly. How you place the ingredients in the dish matters. Nestling the block of feta in the center and piling the olives and tomatoes around it ensures even cooking and flavor distribution. This arrangement allows the feta to become the creamy centerpiece while the surrounding ingredients roast and release their juices into the oil, creating a flavorful moat. The common pitfall is just dumping everything in haphazardly, which can lead to uneven cooking. The goal is a purposeful, rustic presentation that is both beautiful and functional.

Pro Tips for Perfect Creamy Baked Feta

Bring your feta to room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking. This simple step helps it heat through more evenly and become creamier faster, preventing the outside from overcooking before the center warms.

Use the oil from the sun-dried tomato jar. This oil is already infused with tomato flavor and herbs, making it a fantastic addition to the extra virgin olive oil you use. It adds an extra layer of depth to the dish.

Add a splash of white wine or lemon juice to the baking dish before it goes in the oven. This introduces a subtle acidity that will brighten the entire dish and cut through the richness of the cheese and oil.

For a beautiful finish and fresh flavor, always garnish with fresh herbs after baking. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley, basil, or dill over the top just before serving. The contrast between the warm, cooked flavors and the fresh herbs is delightful.

If you love garlic, add thin slices of fresh garlic to the oil around the feta. As it bakes, the garlic will soften and mellow, infusing the oil with a gentle, sweet garlic flavor that is far less pungent than raw garlic.

For an extra touch of luxury and texture, sprinkle a handful of pine nuts or chopped walnuts over the dish for the last five minutes of baking. They will toast beautifully in the oil, adding a nutty crunch.

Variations and Adaptations

Regional variations allow you to take this dish on a culinary journey. For a Greek island feel, add capers and fresh oregano. To give it an Italian twist, use fresh basil and add some chopped artichoke hearts. For a Provencal version, incorporate herbes de Provence and a few anchovy fillets. A Middle Eastern adaptation could include a sprinkle of za’atar and a drizzle of pomegranate molasses after baking. These small changes can completely transform the character of the dish while keeping the core technique intact.

Seasonal adaptations make this recipe a year-round favorite. In the spring, add fresh peas and asparagus tips during the last few minutes of baking. During summer, use a mix of fresh cherry tomatoes and sun-dried ones for a brighter flavor. In the autumn, incorporate roasted cubes of butternut squash and a pinch of smoked paprika. For a winter holiday version, add cranberries and chopped rosemary. This flexibility ensures your baked feta always feels fresh and appropriate for the season.

Dietary modifications are straightforward for this versatile appetizer. For a vegan baked feta, use a block of vegan feta cheese, which has improved dramatically in quality. To make it lower in fat, use a reduced-fat feta and reduce the amount of olive oil, adding a splash of vegetable broth instead. For a Whole30 or paleo version, omit the cheese and use a block of extra-firm tofu or a mixture of olives and capers as the base. The basic formula is very forgiving to experimentation.

Serving and Presentation Guide

Plating techniques for this dish are all about embracing its rustic charm. Serve it directly in the warm baking dish you cooked it in, placed on a trivet or a decorative board. This communicates a sense of homemade warmth and immediacy. Provide a small spoon for guests to serve themselves onto their plates. For individual portions, you can bake the feta in small ramekins, which looks elegant and ensures everyone gets their own perfectly portioned dip with a creamy center.

Garnishing is the final touch that elevates the presentation. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil over the top just before serving adds a beautiful sheen. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt, such as Maldon, enhances texture and flavor. Freshly chopped soft herbs like parsley, basil, or dill provide a pop of green color and fresh aroma. For a bit of spice and color, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a twist of black pepper from a mill finishes the dish perfectly.

Traditional accompaniments are all about providing vehicles for the delicious dip. Warm, crusty bread is non-negotiable; a baguette sliced into crostini or torn pieces of ciabatta are ideal. Pita bread, either warmed or toasted into chips, is another classic choice. Beyond bread, offer a variety of fresh vegetable crudites such as cucumber spears, bell pepper strips, carrot sticks, and endive leaves. For a more substantial offering, it pairs wonderfully with grilled lamb chops or chicken skewers.

Wine and Beverage Pairing

Wine pairings for this flavorful dish should complement its salty, tangy, and rich profile. A crisp, acidic white wine like a Greek Assyrtiko or a Sauvignon Blanc is a perfect match. The high acidity cuts through the richness of the cheese and oil beautifully. Alternatively, a dry rosé from Provence, with its bright red fruit notes and crisp finish, can handle the saltiness and harmonize with the tomato flavors. For red wine lovers, a light-bodied, low-tannin red like a Pinot Noir or a Beaujolais will not overpower the dish.

Non-alcoholic alternatives can be just as sophisticated. A sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or lime provides a clean, palate-cleansing effervescence. For something more complex, a tart cherry juice spritzer or a non-alcoholic Greek-inspired drink like a minty cucumber lemonade would be refreshing. Iced herbal teas, such as rosemary-lemon or mint, can also complement the Mediterranean flavors without competing with them. The goal is a beverage that refreshes the palate between bites of the rich, savory dip.

Storage and Shelf Life

Storage methods for leftovers are straightforward but important. First, allow the baked feta to cool completely to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. It is best to keep the cheese and the oily tomato-olive mixture together, as the oil helps preserve the ingredients. Do not leave it at room temperature for more than two hours after baking. Properly stored in the refrigerator, leftovers will maintain good quality for up to three days.

Reheating instructions require a gentle touch to restore the creamy texture. The microwave can be used, but it may cause the feta to become rubbery if heated too aggressively. Instead, reheat it in a conventional oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat it in a skillet on the stovetop over low heat, stirring gently. If the mixture seems dry after storage, add a tablespoon of olive oil or water before reheating. Unfortunately, this dish does not freeze well, as the texture of the feta becomes grainy and watery upon thawing.

Make Ahead Strategies

Prep timeline for entertaining can be managed efficiently. You can fully assemble the dish up to a day in advance. Simply place the block of feta in your baking dish, surround it with the olives and sun-dried tomatoes, drizzle with oil, and add your herbs and seasonings. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it. When you are ready to bake, take the dish out of the refrigerator and let it sit on the counter for 20-30 minutes to take the chill off. This prevents the shock of going from cold to hot, which can affect texture. Then bake as directed, possibly adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Storage between steps is simple with the make-ahead method. The key is to keep the assembled, unbaked dish tightly covered in the refrigerator to prevent the feta from drying out. Do not add fresh garlic too far in advance, as it can develop a sharp, bitter flavor. If you are prepping components separately, you can chop the olives and measure out the tomatoes and herbs, storing them in separate containers in the fridge. Then, assembly before baking takes only a minute. This approach spreads the work out and makes last-minute preparation effortless.

Scaling Instructions

Halving the recipe is simple for smaller gatherings. Use a half-block of feta (about 4 ounces) and reduce the other ingredients proportionally. A small oven-safe dish or even a large ramekin is perfect for this. The baking time may be slightly reduced, so start checking for doneness around the 15-minute mark. The visual cues are the same: the feta should be soft and jiggly, and the oil should be bubbling gently around the edges. This smaller portion is ideal for a romantic appetizer or a snack for two.

Doubling or tripling the recipe for a crowd requires minor adjustments. Use a larger baking dish, like a 9×13 inch pan, and arrange multiple blocks of feta in a single layer with the olives and tomatoes distributed around them. You may need to increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes to ensure the feta in the center of the dish heats through completely. Stir the olive and tomato mixture halfway through baking to promote even cooking. Ensure you have plenty of bread for dipping, as a larger portion will generate more of the delicious savory oil sauce.

Nutritional Deep Dive

Macro breakdown of this dish reflects its Mediterranean roots. It is relatively high in fat, but these are primarily healthy monounsaturated fats from the olive oil and olives, which are beneficial for heart health. The feta cheese provides a good amount of protein and fat, while the olives and sun-dried tomatoes contribute minimal carbohydrates. The exact numbers will vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you use and what you choose to dip into it. When served with whole-grain bread and vegetables, it becomes a more balanced snack with added fiber and complex carbs.

Health benefits are tied to its core components. The monounsaturated fats in olive oil can help reduce bad cholesterol levels. Feta cheese is a good source of calcium for bone health and contains conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which may have anti-cancer properties. Olives and sun-dried tomatoes are rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. This combination makes the dish not just a tasty appetizer but also a contributor to a healthy, balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation as part of an overall healthy lifestyle.

Dietary Adaptations

Vegan adaptation is entirely possible with the wide availability of high-quality plant-based feta alternatives. Many brands now make almond, tofu, or coconut-based feta that mimics the tangy, salty flavor profile remarkably well. Ensure the vegan feta you choose is meant for baking, as some varieties may not hold their structure. The rest of the recipe remains unchanged—olives, sun-dried tomatoes, olive oil, and herbs are all naturally vegan. This allows everyone to enjoy this viral appetizer, regardless of dietary preferences.

Dairy-free and lactose-free needs are addressed with the same vegan feta substitution. Since traditional feta is made from sheep’s and goat’s milk, it contains lower levels of lactose than cow’s milk cheese, but it is not lactose-free. For those with a severe intolerance or allergy, using a certified vegan product is the safest bet. The other ingredients in the recipe are naturally free from dairy, so the switch is seamless and does not compromise the overall flavor or experience of the dish.

Troubleshooting Guide

Texture issues often stem from the type of feta used. If your baked feta is grainy or dry, you likely used pre-crumbled feta. For a creamy result, a block in brine is essential. If the feta releases a lot of white liquid and becomes rubbery, it was likely overheated or baked for too long. Next time, reduce the baking time or lower the oven temperature slightly. If the surrounding ingredients are burning before the feta is soft, your baking dish may be too large, causing the oil to pool too thinly. Use a smaller, snugger dish.

Flavor balance is key. If the dish tastes too salty, the feta or olives may have been particularly salty. Soak the feta block in cold water for 30 minutes before using next time to draw out some salt. You can also use low-sodium olives. If it tastes bland, you may have used low-quality olive oil or forgotten to season with pepper and herbs. Always taste after baking and adjust with a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes to brighten and enhance the flavors.

Recipe Success Stories

Community feedback on this baked feta recipe has been overwhelmingly positive. Many home cooks report that it has become their “secret weapon” for impressing guests with minimal effort. One reader shared that she made it for a book club meeting and received multiple requests for the recipe before the evening was over. Another mentioned that her children, who typically avoid olives, devoured it when spread on warm pita bread. These stories highlight the universal appeal and crowd-pleasing nature of this simple yet sophisticated dish.

Variation successes from readers are a testament to its versatility. One creative cook added spicy chorizo slices to the dish, which rendered its flavorful oil into the mix. Another used a mix of green and black olives with artichoke hearts for a stunning antipasto-style version. A reader following a keto diet shared that she serves it with flaxseed crackers and it fits perfectly into her meal plan. These adaptations show how the basic recipe serves as a springboard for culinary creativity, allowing everyone to make it their own.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of cheese?

While feta is ideal for its tangy flavor and ability to soften without completely melting, you can experiment with other cheeses. A firm goat cheese (chevre) will behave similarly. Halloumi can be used, but it will become soft and squeaky rather than creamy. Soft cheeses like brie or camembert will melt into a completely different, but still delicious, liquid consistency.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?

You can substitute with a cup of cherry or grape tomatoes. The result will be different but still wonderful. The fresh tomatoes will release more liquid as they bake, creating a saucier base. You could also use roasted red peppers from a jar, which would offer a sweet, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the feta and olives.

Is it necessary to use the oil from the sun-dried tomato jar?

It is not strictly necessary, but it is highly recommended. That oil is already infused with the flavors of tomatoes and herbs, so it adds an extra layer of depth to the dish. If you do not have it, simply use all extra virgin olive oil. The recipe will still be delicious.

Can I make this in an air fryer?

Yes, you can adapt this for an air fryer. Use a small, oven-safe dish that fits inside your air fryer basket. The cooking time will be shorter, likely around 12-15 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Check it frequently, as air fryers can vary in power. The goal is the same: soft, warmed feta and bubbling oil.

My feta didn’t get creamy. What went wrong?

The most common cause is using pre-crumbled feta, which contains stabilizers that prevent it from softening properly. Always use a solid block of feta packed in brine. Another possibility is that the baking time was too short or the oven temperature was too low. Ensure your oven is fully preheated and bake for the full recommended time.

What are the best things to serve with this?

Crusty bread is the classic and best accompaniment for scooping up the creamy feta and oily sauce. Baguette slices, crostini, or pita bread are perfect. For a lighter option, serve with vegetable crudites like cucumber, bell pepper, and carrot sticks. It also makes a fantastic sauce for pasta or a topping for grilled meats.

Can I add meat to this recipe?

Absolutely. Diced chorizo, pancetta, or cooked Italian sausage can be scattered in the dish before baking. Their fats will render and add another dimension of flavor. For a seafood twist, add anchovy fillets or cooked shrimp during the last few minutes of baking. Just be mindful that adding moist ingredients can alter the cooking time and liquid content.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The feta should be soft to the touch and jiggle when you shake the dish. It will have lost its sharp, crumbly edges and look warmed through. The oil around it should be bubbling gently, and the olives and tomatoes should look heated and fragrant. It will not be a liquid pool, but a soft, spreadable block.

Additional Resources

Related recipes that complement this baked feta are plentiful. If you enjoy the Mediterranean flavors, you might love a classic Greek salad, hummus, or tzatziki. For another warm, cheesy appetizer, consider baked brie with jam or spinach and artichoke dip. If you want to use this as a pasta sauce, simply toss it with hot cooked pasta, adding a splash of pasta water to create a creamy sauce. The possibilities for building a entire Mediterranean-inspired meal around this centerpiece are endless and exciting for any home cook.

Technique guides that will enhance your skills for this and other recipes include learning how to select a high-quality extra virgin olive oil, mastering the art of baking with cheese, and understanding how to balance flavors in a dish. Knowing how to properly store fresh herbs and cheeses will also help you keep your ingredients at their peak. These fundamental skills will not only ensure your baked feta turns out perfectly every time but will also elevate your overall cooking prowess in the kitchen.

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Baked Feta with Olives & Sun-Dried Tomatoes


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  • Author: Chef Billy

Description

A warm, savory appetizer featuring creamy feta cheese baked with briny olives and sweet sun-dried tomatoes, perfect for sharing.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

  • 8 oz block of feta cheese
  • 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish
  • Crusty bread or crackers for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Place the feta block in a small baking dish. Surround with olives and sun-dried tomatoes.
  3. Drizzle olive oil over the feta and sprinkle with minced garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
  4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the feta is soft and slightly golden.
  5. Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately with crusty bread or crackers.

Notes

You can customize the seasonings to taste.

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