There is something wonderfully irresistible about sinking into the rich, creamy goodness of warm feta cheese combined with the robust flavors of olives and sun-dried tomatoes. This Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe captures that magic perfectly, creating a Mediterranean-inspired appetizer that feels both indulgent and fresh. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply craving a cozy snack, this dish dazzles with its balance of tangy, salty, and slightly spicy notes—all baked to bubbly, golden perfection. It’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to make something truly special, and I can’t wait to share how you can easily make it at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet each plays an essential role in building the bold, layered flavor of this dish. From the creamy feta that melts just right, to the punch of olives and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, every element contributes to the perfect taste, texture, and vibrant Mediterranean color palette.
- Feta cheese block (7–8 oz): The star of the dish that becomes wonderfully soft and luscious when baked.
- Kalamata olives, 1/2 cup, pitted and halved: Adds a salty, briny bite that complements the cheese.
- Sun-dried tomatoes in oil, 1/3 cup, drained and chopped: Brings sweetness and chewy texture, plus a burst of intense tomato flavor.
- Olive oil, 2 tablespoons: Coats the ingredients, helping everything bake evenly and adds a fruity richness.
- Dried oregano, 1 teaspoon: Offers the warm, herbaceous note classic to Mediterranean flavors.
- Crushed red pepper flakes, 1/4 teaspoon (optional): Provides a gentle heat for those who like a bit of spice.
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Enhances all the flavors with a touch of sharpness.
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh and colorful finishing touch.
- Crusty bread or crackers for serving: The perfect vehicle to scoop and enjoy the warm, melty cheese and toppings.
How to Make Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Using a small oven-safe dish is key here, as it keeps the feta and toppings nestled closely so the flavors meld beautifully while baking.
Step 2: Arrange the Feta and Toppings
Place the block of feta right in the center of your baking dish. Then scatter your halved Kalamata olives and chopped sun-dried tomatoes around and on top of the cheese. This layering allows each bite to have a perfect balance of creamy cheese and those zesty toppings.
Step 3: Drizzle and Season
Next, drizzle the olive oil generously over the feta and toppings to help everything soften and blend flavors while baking. Sprinkle dried oregano and crushed red pepper flakes evenly over the top, followed by freshly ground black pepper to taste. These simple seasonings transform the dish from good to unforgettable.
Step 4: Bake Until Soft and Golden
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the feta turns soft and slightly golden around the edges. The melting cheese paired with warm, fragrant toppings is a joyous sight that gets you excited for the first bite.
Step 5: Garnish and Rest
Once out of the oven, let the dish cool slightly so it’s warm but safe to eat. Now’s the time to sprinkle fresh basil or parsley if you’re using them. These finishing herbs add a pop of color and fresh aroma that brightens every bite of your Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe.
How to Serve Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley is a simple way to lift the dish visually and flavor-wise. You can also consider a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to give brightness and balance to the richness of the feta.
Side Dishes
This dish shines best served with rustic crusty bread or crispy crackers, perfect for scooping up all that luscious, melted cheese and toppings. It also pairs wonderfully as part of a larger Mediterranean-style spread with hummus, roasted vegetables, and fresh salads.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more festive presentation, serve the baked feta in a beautiful ceramic dish surrounded by a medley of colorful roasted peppers, artichokes, or even small cucumbers. You can also turn it into a warm cheese dip by breaking apart the softened feta and stirring it with the olives and tomatoes before serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy this flavorful treat again without missing a beat.
Freezing
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze baked feta if needed. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a low oven set to 300°F (150°C) for about 10–15 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as slow reheating helps maintain the creamy texture and avoids drying out the cheese.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese for this recipe?
Feta is ideal because of its salty tang and firm texture that softens beautifully when baked. While you could try a similar semi-soft cheese like goat cheese, it won’t have quite the same melt and flavor depth as the feta in this Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe.
Are sun-dried tomatoes always packed in oil?
Not always, but for this recipe, using oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes helps keep them moist and flavorful. If you only have dry-packed, soak them briefly in warm water to rehydrate before chopping.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
This recipe relies heavily on feta cheese for its signature taste. However, plant-based feta alternatives are available and can be used for a vegan twist, keeping in mind the texture and flavor might differ slightly.
Is it spicy because of the red pepper flakes?
The crushed red pepper flakes are optional and used sparingly to add a mild warmth. You can leave them out or adjust to your heat preference for a milder or spicier dish.
What’s the best way to serve the leftovers?
Leftover baked feta can be spread on sandwiches, tossed into warm pasta, or crumbled over salads. It adds a lovely salty, creamy punch to many dishes inspired by the Mediterranean.
Final Thoughts
If you want a quick, impressive, and utterly delicious appetizer that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe is your new best friend. It’s perfect for entertaining or cozy nights when you crave something comforting yet fresh. Give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this delightful Mediterranean treasure.
Print
Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
This delightful Baked Feta with Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a flavorful Mediterranean appetizer featuring creamy feta cheese baked with Kalamata olives, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. Drizzled with olive oil and seasoned with oregano and crushed red pepper flakes, this easy-to-make warm cheese dip pairs perfectly with crusty bread or crackers for an irresistible starter or grazing board addition.
Ingredients
Cheese and Olives
- 1 block (7–8 oz) feta cheese
- 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Seasonings
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Garnish and Serving
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
- Crusty bread or crackers for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the feta.
- Prepare the baking dish: Place the block of feta cheese in a small oven-safe baking dish, ensuring it sits flat.
- Add olives and sun-dried tomatoes: Scatter the halved Kalamata olives and chopped sun-dried tomatoes evenly around and on top of the feta cheese.
- Season the cheese: Drizzle the olive oil over the feta and toppings, then sprinkle with dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes if using, and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Bake the feta: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes until the feta is soft and slightly golden around the edges.
- Cool and garnish: Remove the baked feta from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
- Serve: Serve the warm baked feta with crusty bread or crackers for dipping and enjoying.
Notes
- For added flavor, include a few sliced cherry tomatoes or roasted garlic cloves before baking.
- This dish makes a fantastic appetizer or a component of a Mediterranean-style grazing board.
