Ingredients
Scale
- 1 block of feta cheese (about 8 oz): The star of the dish, feta, known for its tangy and slightly salty flavor. Opt for a high-quality Greek feta for the most authentic taste.
- 1 cup mixed olives (green, Kalamata, etc.): Use a variety of olives to add complexity. Kalamata olives bring a robust flavor, while green olives offer a milder, buttery note.
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes: These add a burst of sweetness and acidity, balancing the richness of the feta and olives.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: A staple in Mediterranean cooking, extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavors and helps everything meld together in the oven.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a savory depth to the dish.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Oregano is a classic herb in Mediterranean cuisine, bringing a slightly peppery and aromatic flavor.
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): For those who enjoy a bit of heat, red pepper flakes add a subtle kick without overpowering the other flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): The parsley adds a fresh, vibrant finish to the dish.
- Freshly cracked black pepper: Adds a final touch of seasoning to enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Crusty bread or crackers (for serving): Essential for dipping and soaking up all the delicious flavors from the baked feta and olives.
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures that the feta cheese will soften and the tomatoes will blister beautifully, bringing out their natural sweetness.
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Assemble the Ingredients:
- Place the block of feta in the center of a small baking dish. This allows the cheese to bake evenly and become the creamy centerpiece of the dish.
- Scatter the mixed olives and cherry tomatoes around the feta. The variety of olives adds complexity, while the tomatoes provide a bright contrast in both flavor and color.
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Add Flavor:
- Drizzle olive oil generously over the feta, olives, and tomatoes. The olive oil not only adds richness but also helps to meld all the flavors together during baking.
- Sprinkle the minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using) over the top. These ingredients infuse the dish with a savory depth, with the oregano adding a classic Mediterranean touch and the red pepper flakes providing a subtle heat.
- Add freshly cracked black pepper to taste, ensuring the dish is well-seasoned.
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Bake:
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the feta is soft and beginning to turn golden, and the tomatoes are blistered and slightly caramelized. This stage is crucial for developing the rich, layered flavors that make this dish so irresistible.
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Garnish:
- Remove the dish from the oven and immediately sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley. The parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh, herbaceous note that lifts the dish.
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Serve:
- Serve the Baked Feta and Olives warm, accompanied by crusty bread or crackers. The bread is perfect for scooping up the creamy feta and soaking up the flavorful olive oil, making every bite a delight.