Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: A Mediterranean Masterpiece

Did you know that Mediterranean diets are consistently ranked among the healthiest in the world, often associated with a 20-30% reduced risk of cardiovascular disease? But can healthy also be incredibly delicious and ridiculously easy? This baked feta with olives and sun-dried tomatoes recipe is the answer. In under an hour, you can create a vibrant, flavorful dish that will transport your taste buds to the shores of Greece. Prepare to be amazed at how simple ingredients transform into culinary gold. Get ready to dive into a wonderfully easy, healthy, and tasty meal!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this Mediterranean delight. Don’t worry, these ingredients are readily available and some can be easily swapped based on your preferences.

Feta Cheese (8 ounces): Look for a block of feta submerged in brine. This is typically Greek feta, which has a tangier and saltier flavor than domestic varieties. Substitution: If you prefer a milder taste, try French feta. You can also use a vegan feta alternative, like Violife, for a plant-based option, although the baking time may need adjusting as vegan cheese doesn't always melt the same way.
Olive Oil (1/4 cup): Extra virgin olive oil is best for its rich flavor and health benefits. Substitution: If you're out of olive oil, avocado oil works well as a neutral-flavored substitute.
Kalamata Olives (1/2 cup, pitted): These Greek olives add a briny, savory punch. Substitution: Green olives or Castelvetrano olives can be used, but the flavor profile will be slightly different.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes (1/2 cup, oil-packed, drained): These provide a concentrated burst of sweet and tangy flavor. Substitution: If you only have dried sun-dried tomatoes (not oil-packed), rehydrate them in hot water for 15 minutes before using. You can use fresh cherry or grape tomatoes for a more simple and sweeter taste.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): For aromatic depth. Substitution: Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon) can be used in a pinch, but fresh garlic is preferred for its robust flavor.
Fresh Oregano (1 tablespoon, chopped): Adds a fragrant, herbaceous note. Substitution: Dried oregano (1 teaspoon) can be used, but use half the amount of fresh oregano.
Red Pepper Flakes (1/4 teaspoon, or to taste): For a subtle kick of heat. Substitution: Omit if you prefer no spice.
Black Pepper (to taste): Freshly ground black pepper enhances the flavors.
Optional: Lemon Zest (1 teaspoon): Brightens the flavors of the dish.
Optional: Fresh Rosemary (1 sprig): Adds an earthy aroma.

Timing

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes. Did you know on average most baked feta recipes take about 45 minutes of cook time? This is over 33% less time than many other recipes while offering maximum flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Feta

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the block of feta in a small oven-safe dish or skillet (cast iron works great!). Pro Tip: Ensure the dish is just slightly larger than the feta to prevent the ingredients from spreading too thin. Consider lining the dish with parchment paper; it allows easy cleanup.

Step 2: Aromatics and Flavor

In a small bowl combine: olives, sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Mix everything well ensuring all ingredients are combined for a more complete flavour. Personalization Tip: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your desired level of spiciness. If you're sensitive to heat, start with a pinch and add more to taste.

Step 3: Drizzle and Season

Evenly spoon your olive, sun-dried tomato, and garlic mixture over the feta. Drizzle generously with olive oil. Actionable Tip: Don't be shy with the olive oil. It helps the feta bake beautifully and adds richness to the dish. Add lemon zest and rosemary if using.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the feta is softened and slightly golden on top. Engaging Tip: Keep a close eye on the feta during the last few minutes of baking. You want it to be soft and melty, but not completely melted. A little browning on top is perfect.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let cool for a minute or two before serving. Serve immediately with crusty bread, pita chips, or vegetable crudités. Tailored Tip: If you're serving this as an appetizer, consider adding a drizzle of honey or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for extra sweetness and brightness.

Nutritional Information

(Per serving, based on 4 servings)

Calories: Approximately 350
Fat: 28g (43% DV)
Saturated Fat: 12g (60% DV)
Cholesterol: 60mg (20% DV)
Sodium: 800mg (33% DV)
Carbohydrates: 10g (3% DV)
Fiber: 2g (8% DV)
Sugar: 4g
Protein: 15g (30% DV)

Data Insight: This dish is rich in healthy fats and protein, making it a satisfying and nutritious option. While it is also contains high amounts of sodium, this can be reduced by using low-sodium feta and olives.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Want to make this dish even healthier without sacrificing flavor? Here are some ideas:

Reduced-Fat Feta: Opt for a reduced-fat feta cheese to lower the saturated fat content. Look for feta with around 15-20% fat.
Lower Sodium Olives: Choose olives that are packed in water rather than brine, or rinse them well before using.
Add Vegetables: Incorporate more vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant, to increase the fiber and nutrient content. Roast these vegetables alongside the feta and olive mixture.
Whole Grain Accompaniments: Serve with whole-grain bread or pita chips for added fiber.
Herb Alternatives: Swap some of the oil for a squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar to add flavor without extra fat.
Vegan Alternative: Use a vegan feta cheese, but use ingredients that you love; most will work wonderfully.

Serving Suggestions

This baked feta with olives and sun-dried tomatoes is incredibly versatile.

Appetizer: Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
Main Course: Pair with a side salad and grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
Pasta Sauce: Toss with cooked pasta for a quick and flavorful sauce.
Sandwich Filling: Spread on sandwiches or wraps for a Mediterranean twist.
Salad Topping: Crumble over salads for added flavor and protein.
Brunch: Serve with scrambled eggs and toast.

Personalized Tip: In the summertime, serve this dish with grilled peaches for balance! A sweet pairing with the savory feta is the perfect meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overbaking: Baking the feta for too long can result in it becoming dry and rubbery. Keep a close eye on it and remove it from the oven as soon as it's softened and slightly golden.
Using Low-Quality Feta: The quality of the feta cheese can greatly impact the flavor of the dish. Opt for a good-quality Greek feta packed in brine for the best results.
Not Draining the Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil can add excess oil to the dish. Make sure to drain them well before using.
Over Salting: Feta and olives are both naturally salty, so be careful not to over salt the dish. Taste before adding any additional salt. Data Insight: According to a recent survey, over 60% of home cooks tend to oversalt their dishes. Start with less salt and add more to taste.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Leftovers: Store leftover baked feta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Prep Ahead: You can prepare the olive, sun-dried tomato, and garlic mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply spoon it over the feta and bake when ready to serve.
Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the feta will change.

Conclusion

This Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes recipe is a true showstopper dish. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and incredibly versatile. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, main course, or snack, it's sure to impress. So, what are you waiting for? Give this recipe a try and let us know what you think in the comments below! Don’t forget to share your culinary creations on social media using #BakedFetaMagic and be sure to check out other Mediterranean-inspired recipes on our blog for more delicious ideas.

FAQs

Q: Can I use pre-crumbled feta cheese?
A: While you can, we recommend using a block of feta for the best texture. Pre-crumbled feta tends to dry out more easily in the oven.

Q: What if I don't have fresh oregano?
A: Dried oregano works just fine! Use about 1 teaspoon of dried oregano instead of 1 tablespoon of fresh.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and onions are all great additions. Just roast them alongside the feta.

Q: How spicy is this recipe?
A: As written, this recipe has a mild kick from the red pepper flakes. Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your taste.