Baked Feta with Olives & Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean to your table. This recipe combines the rich creaminess of feta cheese with the briny tang of olives and the sweet intensity of sun-dried tomatoes, all infused with aromatic herbs and garlic.
To begin, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). As the oven warms up, prepare a small baking dish by placing an 8-ounce block of feta cheese in the center. Surround the feta with a generous cup of pitted olives, ensuring they are evenly distributed around the cheese. Then, scatter half a cup of sun-dried tomatoes throughout the dish, adding bursts of concentrated flavor.
In a small bowl, create a flavorful seasoning mixture by combining olive oil, thinly sliced garlic cloves, dried oregano, thyme, and rosemary. Season the mixture with a pinch of kosher salt and a grind of fresh cracked pepper, adjusting to taste. The aromatic blend of herbs and garlic infuses the olive oil, creating a fragrant marinade for the feta and accompanying ingredients.
Drizzle the seasoned olive oil over the feta, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes, ensuring they are coated evenly. This step not only adds layers of flavor but also helps to keep the feta moist and creamy as it bakes in the oven.
Once assembled, place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the feta to soften. For a golden finish, switch the oven to broil for the final 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
As the dish emerges from the oven, garnish it with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. The vibrant green parsley adds a visual contrast to the rich, earthy tones of the baked feta, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes.
Serve the Baked Feta with Olives & Sun-Dried Tomatoes warm, accompanied by slices of French bread or crostini for dipping. The creamy, savory feta pairs beautifully with the crisp texture of the bread, creating a satisfying appetizer or light meal that celebrates the flavors of the Mediterranean.
With just 25 minutes of total preparation and cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family. Each bite is a taste of the sun-soaked shores of the Mediterranean, transporting you to a culinary paradise of vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients.
