Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a warm, savory recipe that brings together creamy feta cheese, briny olives, and intensely flavored sun-dried tomatoes in one elegant bake. This dish is designed to be both visually appealing and deeply satisfying, making it suitable for casual meals, elegant gatherings, and appetizer spreads.
We rely on high-quality ingredients, gentle baking, and balanced seasoning to highlight the natural richness of feta cheese. When baked, the feta softens without melting completely, creating a creamy center that absorbs the surrounding olive oil, herbs, and aromatics. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of salty, tangy, and savory notes that define authentic Mediterranean cuisine.
This recipe is ideal for those seeking an easy baked feta recipe, a healthy Mediterranean appetizer, or a crowd-pleasing vegetarian dish. We crafted this guide to be comprehensive, precise, and rich in culinary detail, ensuring excellent results every time.
A Brief History of Baked Feta in Mediterranean Cuisine
We trace the roots of baked feta to Greece and surrounding Mediterranean regions, where feta cheese has been a staple for centuries. Traditionally made from sheep’s milk or a blend of sheep’s and goat’s milk, feta has long been valued for its crumbly texture, tangy flavor, and ability to withstand heat better than many soft cheeses.
In Mediterranean kitchens, feta is often paired with olives, olive oil, herbs, and preserved vegetables such as sun-dried tomatoes. Baking feta with these ingredients became popular as a rustic oven dish served with crusty bread, allowing families to share a simple yet nourishing meal. Over time, variations spread across Europe and the Middle East, each adding regional herbs and olive varieties.
Today, baked feta with olives and sun-dried tomatoes has gained global popularity due to its versatility, minimal preparation, and bold flavor profile. We honor this tradition while refining the method to meet modern tastes and presentation standards.
Why This Recipe Works
We designed this recipe to maximize flavor without complexity. The feta retains its structure while becoming luxuriously creamy inside. Olives contribute depth and salinity, while sun-dried tomatoes add sweetness and umami. Extra virgin olive oil binds the ingredients and enhances mouthfeel, while herbs and garlic provide aromatic balance.
This dish works as:
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A Mediterranean baked cheese appetizer
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A vegetarian mezze platter centerpiece
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A quick oven-baked feta dip
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A flavorful topping for pasta, grains, or roasted vegetables
Every component serves a purpose, ensuring a cohesive and memorable dish.
Ingredients for Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
We recommend using fresh, high-quality ingredients to achieve the best results.
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Feta cheese block (200–250g), preferably Greek feta
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Sun-dried tomatoes, sliced, preferably oil-packed
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Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
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Green olives, pitted and sliced
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Extra virgin olive oil, generous drizzle
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Fresh garlic cloves, thinly sliced
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Dried oregano
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Dried thyme or Italian seasoning
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Crushed red pepper flakes, optional
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Freshly ground black pepper
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Fresh basil or parsley, finely chopped
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Lemon zest, optional for brightness
These ingredients create a balanced flavor profile while supporting popular LSI keywords such as Mediterranean baked feta, oven baked feta cheese, feta appetizer recipe, and baked feta dip.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Preparing the Oven and Baking Dish
We preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) to ensure even baking. A small ceramic or glass baking dish works best, allowing the feta to bake gently without drying out. We lightly coat the dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
Assembling the Ingredients
We place the block of feta cheese in the center of the baking dish. Around the feta, we evenly distribute the sun-dried tomatoes and mixed olives. This arrangement allows the flavors to infuse into the cheese while baking.
We scatter the sliced garlic over the feta and vegetables, ensuring even distribution. Garlic gently roasts in the olive oil, becoming aromatic rather than sharp.
Seasoning the Dish
We drizzle a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil over the feta and surrounding ingredients. This step is essential for achieving a silky texture and rich mouthfeel.
We sprinkle dried oregano, dried thyme, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes evenly over the dish. These herbs complement the feta’s tanginess without overpowering it.
Baking the Feta
We place the baking dish on the center rack of the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes. During this time, the feta softens, the olives warm through, and the tomatoes release their concentrated flavors into the oil.
For a lightly golden top, we switch to the broiler setting for the final 2–3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Finishing Touches
Once baked, we remove the dish from the oven and allow it to rest briefly. We garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley and optional lemon zest to add freshness and contrast.
The result is a warm, aromatic dish with a creamy center and bold Mediterranean flavors.
Serving Suggestions
We serve baked feta with:
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Warm crusty bread or toasted baguette slices
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Pita bread or flatbread
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Crackers or crostini
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Fresh vegetables such as cucumbers and cherry tomatoes
This dish also pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or tossed into warm pasta for a quick Mediterranean-style meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips
We store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, we place the feta in a small oven-safe dish and warm at 180°C (350°F) until heated through. We avoid microwaving to preserve texture and flavor.
Nutritional Highlights
Baked feta with olives and sun-dried tomatoes offers:
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High-quality protein from feta cheese
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Healthy fats from extra virgin olive oil
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Antioxidants from olives and tomatoes
This makes it a balanced option for those following a Mediterranean diet or seeking a flavorful vegetarian recipe.
Expert Tips for Perfect Baked Feta
We recommend using a full block of feta rather than crumbled cheese for best texture. We also suggest tasting the olives and sun-dried tomatoes before seasoning, as salt levels may vary. High-quality olive oil significantly enhances the final result, making it worth the investment.
Conclusion
We crafted this Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes recipe to deliver exceptional flavor, visual appeal, and ease of preparation. Its Mediterranean roots, combined with modern presentation, make it a timeless dish suitable for any occasion. With minimal effort and maximum taste, this recipe stands as a reliable and impressive addition to any kitchen repertoire.