This baked feta dish is a simple yet flavorful appetizer that combines creamy feta cheese with juicy tomatoes and aromatic herbs. It’s perfect for sharing and pairs well with crusty bread or crackers.
The recipe is quick to prepare and requires minimal ingredients, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or a cozy night in.
Overview of Baked Feta with Tomatoes
This dish combines creamy feta cheese with juicy cherry tomatoes, creating a warm and inviting appetizer that is perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the flavors to shine, making it a delightful addition to any meal.
As the feta bakes, it becomes golden and slightly melted, while the tomatoes burst with flavor. The aromatic herbs and garlic elevate the dish, making it not only visually appealing but also a treat for the taste buds.
Ingredients That Shine
The key components of this baked feta dish include a block of feta cheese, fresh cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. These ingredients come together to create a rich and satisfying flavor profile.
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley add a pop of color and freshness, while optional red pepper flakes introduce a hint of heat. Pairing this dish with crusty bread or crackers enhances the experience, allowing for easy dipping into the creamy feta and juicy tomatoes.
Preparation Steps
Getting started is straightforward. Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the feta and tomatoes cook evenly, resulting in a perfectly baked dish.
In a baking dish, place the feta cheese at the center and surround it with halved cherry tomatoes. Sprinkle minced garlic over the top for an aromatic touch. A generous drizzle of olive oil, along with seasoning, completes the preparation.
Baking to Perfection
Once assembled, place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the feta is soft and the tomatoes are blistered. The aroma that fills your kitchen during this time is simply irresistible.
After baking, allow the dish to cool slightly before garnishing with fresh basil or parsley. This final touch adds a burst of color and enhances the overall flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This baked feta dish is best served warm, accompanied by slices of crusty bread or crackers. The bread acts as a vessel for scooping up the creamy feta and juicy tomatoes, making each bite a delightful experience.
Consider presenting the dish on a rustic wooden serving board for a charming touch. This not only looks appealing but also encourages sharing among guests, making it a perfect appetizer for any occasion.
Nutrition and Enjoyment
With approximately 250 calories per serving, this dish is a satisfying yet light option for an appetizer. It offers a good balance of fats and proteins, making it a wholesome choice for those looking to enjoy a flavorful bite without overindulging.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, this baked feta with tomatoes is sure to impress. Its combination of flavors and textures creates a memorable dish that will have everyone coming back for more.
Easy Baked Feta with Tomatoes Recipe
This baked feta features a block of feta cheese surrounded by cherry tomatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs, all drizzled with olive oil. The dish is baked until the feta is soft and the tomatoes are bursting, creating a delicious dip-like consistency. It takes about 30 minutes to prepare and serves 4 as an appetizer.
Ingredients
- 1 block (8 oz) feta cheese
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
- Crusty bread or crackers for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Dish: In a baking dish, place the block of feta cheese in the center. Surround it with halved cherry tomatoes and sprinkle the minced garlic over the top.
- Season: Drizzle olive oil over the feta and tomatoes. Sprinkle with dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the feta is soft and the tomatoes are blistered.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve warm with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 10g