This Mediterranean Feta Bake is a warm, savory dish bursting with bold flavors. A block of creamy Greek feta is oven-baked until golden and soft, surrounded by cherry tomatoes, briny olives, and sweet sun-dried tomatoes. Enhanced with herbs and spices, this simple yet elegant appetizer is perfect for sharing, especially when served with crusty bread or pita.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Effortlessly Elegant: Minimal preparation yields a stunning, restaurant-worthy dish.
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Bold Mediterranean Flavors: Features classic ingredients like feta, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and oregano.
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Versatile Appetizer or Side: Pairs beautifully with bread, grains, or as part of a mezze platter.
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Customizable Heat: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of spice, or leave them out for a milder option.
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Perfect for Entertaining: A crowd-pleaser that comes together quickly and easily in one baking dish.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 block (200g) Greek feta cheese
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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½ cup pitted Kalamata olives
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¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced
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2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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1 tablespoon capers (optional)
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Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
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Crusty bread or pita, for serving
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Place the block of feta cheese in the center of a small ovenproof baking dish.
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Arrange the cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and sun-dried tomatoes around the feta.
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Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil evenly over the feta and vegetables.
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Sprinkle with dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and freshly ground black pepper. Add capers if desired.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the feta is warm, soft, and slightly golden at the edges.
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Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
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Serve warm with crusty bread or pita to scoop up the melted feta and flavorful toppings.
Servings and Timing
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Yield: 4 servings
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Preparation Time: 10 minutes
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Cooking Time: 25 minutes
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Total Time: 35 minutes
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Calories: Approximately 260 kcal per serving
Variations
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Add Roasted Garlic: Add whole garlic cloves to the dish for a sweet, mellow flavor.
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Include Roasted Peppers: Mix in strips of roasted red peppers for color and sweetness.
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Vegan Option: Substitute vegan feta-style cheese for a plant-based version.
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Add Artichokes: Include marinated artichoke hearts for extra Mediterranean flair.
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Top with Nuts: Garnish with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch and richness.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes until warm. Avoid microwaving, which may affect the texture of the feta.
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Serving Tip: Bring to room temperature before serving if enjoying leftovers cold or as a spread.
FAQs
Can I use crumbled feta instead of a block?
While crumbled feta will melt more quickly, it may not hold its shape or present as attractively as a block. A whole block is recommended for best results.
Is it necessary to use Greek feta?
Greek feta has a firm texture and tangy flavor ideal for baking. However, other high-quality feta varieties can also be used.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dish ahead and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best texture and flavor.
What kind of bread pairs well with this?
Crusty baguette slices, pita bread, or even toasted sourdough are excellent choices for dipping.
Can I add protein to make it a full meal?
Absolutely. Serve alongside grilled chicken, lamb, or chickpeas to create a more filling meal.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, the bake itself is gluten-free. Simply serve with gluten-free bread or crackers.
Can I make it spicier?
Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add sliced fresh chili to raise the heat level.
Will other cheeses work?
Yes, cheeses like halloumi or goat cheese can be used, but baking time and texture will vary.
Can I use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes?
Yes, but drain them slightly before adding to avoid excess oil in the dish.
Should the capers be rinsed before use?
If using salted capers, rinse to remove excess salt. Brined capers can be added directly for extra tanginess.
Conclusion
The Mediterranean Feta Bake with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a simple yet sophisticated dish that delivers big on flavor. With its creamy, melty feta and medley of Mediterranean accompaniments, it’s a perfect appetizer or side that pairs beautifully with your favorite bread. Whether you’re hosting guests or treating yourself to a cozy meal, this dish is sure to impress.
[tasty-recipe id=”18620″]