Baked Feta with Olives

Featured in: Tasty and Satisfying Vegetarian Recipes

This Mediterranean-inspired dish features a warm block of feta cheese baked with olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. Drizzled with olive oil and roasted until soft and slightly caramelized, the cheese becomes deliciously creamy while absorbing the flavors of garlic and herbs. Served with fresh parsley and crusty bread, it makes an impressive yet simple appetizer perfect for gatherings or as a starter for a casual dinner party.

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Updated on Mon, 14 Apr 2025 20:16:58 GMT
A bowl of food with tomatoes and olives. Pin it
A bowl of food with tomatoes and olives. | quickietreats.com

This Mediterranean baked feta transforms a simple cheese block into an irresistible appetizer bursting with savory flavors. The cheese gets warm and slightly soft in the oven while absorbing the aromatic herbs and olive oil, creating a dish that will transport you straight to a seaside taverna.

I first made this baked feta for an impromptu gathering when friends dropped by unexpectedly. The combination of warm cheese, briny olives, and herbs was so addictive that it's now my signature appetizer for every dinner party.

Ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

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A bowl of food with tomatoes and cheese. | quickietreats.com

This dish reminds me of my travels through Greece where we would order similar appetizers at small family restaurants. The way the warm feta soaks up the herbaceous oil creates a combination that's both comforting and sophisticated, making even the most casual gathering feel special.

Make It Your Own

Storage and Leftovers

Serving Suggestions

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A bowl of food with olives and tomatoes. | quickietreats.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of feta works best for this dish?

A solid block of Greek or Bulgarian feta works best as it holds its shape while baking yet becomes creamy. Avoid pre-crumbled feta as it won't produce the same melty texture.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can assemble all ingredients in the baking dish up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate. Simply bring to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.

→ What can I serve besides bread with this dish?

While crusty bread is traditional, you can also serve with cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, endive leaves, or gluten-free crackers for a lower-carb option.

→ Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Absolutely! Triple the amount of fresh herbs (1½ teaspoons each of fresh oregano, thyme, and rosemary) when substituting for dried herbs in this dish.

→ How long will leftovers keep?

Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. The cheese will firm up when cold but can be gently reheated in a 300°F oven for 5-10 minutes until warm.

→ What type of olives work best in this dish?

A mix of Kalamata, green olives, and Castelvetrano provides nice variety, but any Mediterranean olives you enjoy will work well.

Baked Feta Mediterranean Dish

Creamy feta baked with Mediterranean olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs - a warm, flavorful appetizer for bread or crostini.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
22 Minutes
Total Time
32 Minutes
By: Mia

Category: Vegetarian Meals

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Yield: 4 Servings (1 baked feta dish)

Dietary: Low-Carb, Vegetarian

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 8-ounce block feta cheese
02 1 cup pitted olives, drained
03 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes
04 1/3 cup olive oil
05 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
06 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
07 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
08 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
09 Kosher salt
10 Freshly cracked black pepper

→ For Serving

11 Fresh chopped parsley
12 Sliced French bread or crostini

Instructions

Step 01

Heat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 02

Place the 8-ounce block of feta in the center of a small baking dish.

Step 03

Arrange the pitted olives and sun-dried tomatoes around the feta in the baking dish.

Step 04

In a small bowl, combine olive oil, sliced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and a couple pinches of salt and pepper.

Step 05

Pour the herb oil mixture over the feta, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes.

Step 06

Bake for 20 minutes, then broil for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden on top.

Step 07

Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot with crispy crostini or sliced French bread.

Notes

  1. For best results, use a block of feta packed in brine rather than pre-crumbled feta.

Tools You'll Need

  • Small ovenproof baking dish
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy (feta cheese)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 320
  • Total Fat: 28 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 8 g
  • Protein: 9 g