Mediterranean Baked Feta (Printable)

Warm baked feta with cherry tomatoes, olives, fresh herbs, and olive oil for a tasty Mediterranean dish.

# What you'll need:

→ Dairy

01 - 7 oz block feta cheese

→ Vegetables

02 - 9 oz cherry tomatoes, halved
03 - 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
04 - 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

→ Olives & Aromatics

05 - 2 oz Kalamata olives, pitted
06 - 2 tbsp fresh oregano leaves (or 1 tsp dried oregano)
07 - 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves

→ Pantry

08 - 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
09 - 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
10 - 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
11 - Zest of 1 lemon

→ To Serve

12 - Crusty bread or pita (gluten-free if needed)

# Directions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F.
02 - Place the feta block in the center of a small ovenproof dish or skillet.
03 - Surround the feta with cherry tomatoes, red onion slices, garlic, and olives.
04 - Sprinkle the oregano, thyme, black pepper, and chili flakes (if using) over the cheese and vegetables.
05 - Drizzle everything generously with olive oil.
06 - Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the feta is soft and lightly golden, and the tomatoes are blistered.
07 - Remove from the oven, top with fresh lemon zest, and serve immediately with warm bread or pita.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • The way the feta transforms into a warm, velvety spread feels like pure magic
  • It comes together in minutes but tastes like something from a Mediterranean taverna
  • Everyone gets to dip and share, making it the ultimate conversation starter
02 -
  • Feta can vary in saltiness, so taste a tiny bit before adding extra salt to the dish
  • The cheese will look firm when it comes out but softens beautifully as you stir it
  • Letting it rest for 3 minutes before serving makes it easier to handle and lets flavors meld
03 -
  • Use a shallow baking dish so the vegetables roast rather than steam
  • Add the lemon zest right at the end to preserve its bright, fresh flavor