Name: Mediterranean Baked Feta with Olives & Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 block feta cheese; 0.5 cup Kalamata olives, sliced; 0.5 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, chopped; 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 2 cloves fresh garlic, thinly sliced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian herbs; 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); 1 loaf crusty bread or pita, for serving

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Introduction

This Mediterranean Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a warm, flavorful appetizer that’s easy to prepare and perfect for sharing. Soft, golden feta pairs beautifully with briny olives and rich sun-dried tomatoes, all accented by garlic and herbs. Serve it with crusty bread or pita to scoop up the delicious, melty cheese and savory toppings.

This dish shows one thick, white rectangular block of soft cheese placed in the center of a shallow white bowl. Around and on top of the cheese are dark red sun-dried tomatoes and whole olives in shades of dark purple and green. The cheese is sprinkled with small green herb pieces and light brown spices, with a golden yellow oily liquid pooled around it, shining under the light. The textures vary from the smooth cheese to the wrinkly tomatoes and glossy olives. The background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 block feta cheese
0.5 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
0.5 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, chopped
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 cloves fresh garlic, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian herbs
0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
1 loaf crusty bread or pita, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Place the block of feta in a small baking dish that fits it snugly.
Step 3: Surround the feta with sliced Kalamata olives and chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
Step 4: Scatter the thinly sliced garlic around the feta and toppings.
Step 5: Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the entire dish.
Step 6: Sprinkle dried oregano and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) over the top.
Step 7: Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the feta is golden and soft.
Step 8: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly for 2–3 minutes.
Step 9: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Step 10: Serve warm with crusty bread or pita for dipping.

Tips & Variations

Use high-quality feta made from sheep’s or goat’s milk for the best flavor and melting texture.
Avoid pre-crumbled feta, as it doesn’t melt as well in the oven.
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving for a bright, zesty touch.
Try adding roasted red peppers or fresh cherry tomatoes for extra color and flavor.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, but avoid overheating to prevent the feta from becoming too dry.

How to Serve

A thick white square block of soft cheese sits in the center of a white bowl, covered with a sprinkle of chopped green herbs and a drizzle of golden olive oil. On top of the cheese, there are shiny dark purple and green olives, along with strips of dark red sun-dried tomatoes, all mixed with more herbs. Surrounding the cheese in the bowl are plump dark purple olives and sun-dried tomatoes soaked in oil, giving a glossy look to the whole dish. The bowl rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta?

Feta’s salty, tangy flavor and melting texture are key to this dish. However, you could substitute with halloumi or goat cheese for a different but complementary taste.

Is it necessary to use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil?

Sun-dried tomatoes in oil bring richness and moisture to the dish, but if you only have dry-packed tomatoes, rehydrate them in warm water before chopping and adding.