Delight Your Taste Buds with Baked Feta, Cherry Tomatoes, and Olives: A Simple Mediterranean Appetizer
The Mediterranean diet, renowned for its health benefits and delicious flavors, offers a plethora of dishes that are not only tasty but also simple to prepare. One such dish that has been making waves on the internet and among gourmet circles is Baked Feta with Cherry Tomatoes and Olives. This appetizer is effortless to make, bursting with flavors, and can transform your mealtime into a Mediterranean feast. Here’s how you can bring this appetizer to your table and impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
To start, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 200g block of Feta cheese – This serves as the creamy, tangy base of the dish.
- 500g cherry tomatoes – These add a burst of sweetness and color.
- 100g olives – Pick your favorites, whether black, green, or a mix, for that briny depth.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil – For that rich Mediterranean flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced – For a hint of sharpness.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or mixed herbs – To add some aromatic notes.
- A pinch of chili flakes (optional) – If you like a little heat.
- Fresh basil leaves – For garnish, adding freshness.
- Salt and pepper – To taste.
Equipment:
- Oven
- Baking dish
Instructions:
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (approximately 400°F). This ensures the oven is hot enough to beautifully roast the tomatoes and bake the feta to creamy perfection.
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Prepare the Baking Dish: In a baking dish, add the cherry tomatoes and olives. Drizzle them with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ensuring they are gently coated. This not only adds flavor but also helps them roast beautifully.
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Add Flavor:
- Scatter the sliced garlic over the tomatoes and olives.
- Sprinkle the herbs evenly. If you’re using chili flakes, this is the time to add them.
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Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Remember, the feta and olives are already salty, so less is more.
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Place the Feta: Make a little space in the center of your dish and place the block of feta there. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the feta.
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Bake: Put your dish in the oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes. What you’re looking for is for the tomatoes to burst and become slightly charred, and for the feta to turn soft and slightly golden.
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Serve: Once baked, take the dish out of the oven—the aroma itself will be mouthwatering. Use a fork to slightly break the feta open, mixing a bit with the tomatoes and olives. Garnish with fresh basil leaves. For an extra touch, drizzle a bit more olive oil on top.
Presentation and Accompaniments:
This appetizer is not only delicious but also visually appealing with its vibrant colors. Serve it directly in the baking dish for a rustic and inviting presentation. Baked Feta with Cherry Tomatoes and Olives pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or pita to soak up the delectable sauce. It’s perfect as a starter or even as a light main course.
Why You’ll Love This Dish:
- Easy and quick to prepare: With minimal prep and cooking time, this dish is perfect for any day of the week.
- Healthy: Packed with the goodness of tomatoes, olives, and olive oil, it’s a heart-healthy option.
- Universal appeal: Its combination of creamy feta, sweet tomatoes, and briny olives has a wide appeal.
- Versatile: Feel free to add other ingredients like spinach, artichokes, or capers for variation.
Conclusion:
Baked Feta with Cherry Tomatoes and Olives is a testament to the simplicity and allure of Mediterranean cuisine. It’s a dish that’s as easy to love as it is to make. So, the next time you’re pondering over what to serve as an appetizer or seeking a quick yet delicious meal, remember this dish. Its combination of flavors and ease of preparation might just make it a regular feature at your dining table. Enjoy the journey to the Mediterranean with every bite!
