If you’re anything like me, you crave bold Mediterranean flavors that transport you to sunlit coasts with every bite. That’s why this Mediterranean Baked Feta recipe has become one of my go-to appetizers when I want something easy, crowd-pleasing, and undeniably delicious. With creamy feta, briny olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs swimming in golden olive oil, it’s a dish that practically sings.
Whether you’re hosting guests or just treating yourself, this dish is ready in 35 minutes and absolutely unforgettable. Oh, and if you’re new here, don’t forget to subscribe for more easy, flavor-packed recipes every week!
A Coastal Memory Brought to Life
This Mediterranean Baked Feta recipe holds a special place in my heart. Years ago, I spent a summer wandering the sun-drenched markets of Crete, where feta wasn’t just an ingredient — it was a way of life. Tucked into terracotta dishes and smothered in tomatoes and herbs, feta was served hot, bubbling, and utterly mesmerizing.
That memory came rushing back the first time I tried baking a block of feta at home. With every forkful, I was reminded of tiny seaside cafes and the scent of oregano wafting through the salty air. This recipe is my homage to that magical experience — and one I’m thrilled to share with you.
Whether it’s the creamy texture of the feta, the way it melts just enough without losing its shape, or the satisfying contrast of salty olives and sweet sun-dried tomatoes, everything about this dish feels intentional. And it’s so easy to prepare, it practically begs to be made on repeat.
Even better? This baked feta pairs beautifully with light Mediterranean dishes like the Mediterranean Chickpea Salad or the cheesy goodness of Spinach & Feta Stuffed Chicken, giving you a spread that’s both rustic and refined.
Why This Recipe Is So Special
This isn’t just another appetizer — it’s a guaranteed showstopper. What makes it so magical?
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Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor. The herb oil alone is enough to have guests dipping every last crumb of bread.
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Customizable to suit your preferences — use any combo of herbs or add capers for a brinier kick.
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Quick cooking time makes it ideal for weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
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And let’s not forget how it looks: golden, sizzling, and absolutely irresistible.
This recipe blends elegance with ease, flavor with function. It’s proof that sometimes, the simplest dishes leave the biggest impression.
Ingredients & Preparation
The Mediterranean Flavor Lineup
Let’s talk about what you’ll need to bring this dish to life. Here’s the full breakdown:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Feta cheese (block) | 8 oz | Use sheep’s milk feta for authenticity |
| Pitted olives | 1 cup | Kalamata or Castelvetrano work well |
| Sun-dried tomatoes | ½ cup | Oil-packed is best, but drain them well |
| Extra virgin olive oil | ⅓ cup | Go for bold and fruity |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | Fresh only — the flavor matters |
| Dried oregano | ½ teaspoon | |
| Dried thyme | ½ teaspoon | |
| Dried basil | ½ teaspoon | |
| Red pepper flakes | Pinch | Optional, but adds subtle heat |
| Kosher salt & pepper | To taste | Taste after baking to adjust |
| Fresh parsley (garnish) | Handful, chopped | Brightens everything |
Tools & Substitutions
For best results, use a ceramic baking dish like a Staub Oval — it holds heat beautifully and keeps the feta warm after baking.
Substitution ideas:
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Swap feta for baked halloumi if you want something firmer.
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No sun-dried tomatoes? Roasted red peppers make a great substitute.
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Don’t have fresh parsley? Try fresh dill or even mint.
This dish works wonderfully alongside Easy Mediterranean Chicken & Orzo or a serving of Mediterranean Chicken with Lemons and Olives for a full coastal-inspired meal.
Cooking Instructions & Tips
Let’s Get Cooking – Step-by-Step
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Place the block of feta in a small ceramic baking dish.
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In a medium bowl, combine olives, sun-dried tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Stir well.
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Pour the mixture over the feta, ensuring it’s well coated. Push the olives and tomatoes to the sides so the top of the feta shows slightly.
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Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the feta softens and edges start to bubble.
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If desired, broil for 1–2 minutes to lightly brown the top — but keep an eye out to avoid burning the tomatoes.
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Garnish with chopped parsley, serve immediately with crostini, pita, or cucumber slices.
Tips for Perfect Results
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Use full-fat feta — it softens beautifully without melting into a puddle.
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Watch your broiler closely; olives and tomatoes can burn quickly.
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Serve warm — it holds beautifully in the baking dish, especially if ceramic.
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For a twist, sprinkle pine nuts on top before baking for added texture.
Want more cozy Mediterranean comfort? Try the Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry or this hearty Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake.
Serving, Storing & Pairing
What to Serve It With
This dish shines as a standalone appetizer, but it’s even better when paired creatively:
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Serve with crostini, sliced baguette, or toasted pita.
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For low-carb options, go with cucumber spears or endive leaves.
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Make it a full board with Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole or Crispy Crostini with Brie and Balsamic Cranberries.
Storage & Reheating
You probably won’t have leftovers — but if you do:
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Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.
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Reheat at 350°F (175°C) until warm, or microwave in short bursts.
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Want to prep ahead? Assemble and refrigerate. Bake when guests arrive.
FAQ
Can I use crumbled feta instead of a block?
No — block feta holds its shape better and gives you that creamy yet structured texture.
Is it spicy?
Only a touch from the red pepper flakes. Skip them if you prefer mild.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking time slightly.
Do I have to broil it at the end?
Not at all. Broiling adds color, but the dish is delicious without it.
What’s the best way to serve this for a party?
Right from the baking dish with a big spoon and a pile of crostini nearby!
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Baked Feta recipe is everything I love about cooking: simple, stunning, and deeply satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that encourages conversation, lingers in memory, and makes guests feel right at home.
If this one stole your heart, you’ll also love the zesty flavors of the Tuscan Artichoke Tomato Salad and the irresistible Honey Whipped Feta Cranberry Crostini.
I’d love to hear how your Mediterranean Baked Feta turned out!
Rate this recipe, leave a comment, and don’t forget to share it on Pinterest:
Recipes by Sylvia Pinterest
Mediterranean Baked Feta
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Mediterranean Baked Feta is a simple, bold-flavored appetizer featuring creamy feta cheese, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs, all baked to savory perfection in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
• 8 oz block feta cheese
• 1 cup pitted olives, halved
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp dried basil
• Pinch red pepper flakes
• Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the block of feta cheese in a small baking dish.
3. In a bowl, combine olives, sun-dried tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Mix well.
4. Pour the mixture over the feta, ensuring it’s coated and toppings are pushed to the sides.
5. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until feta is softened and bubbly.
6. Optional: broil for 1–2 minutes to lightly brown the top, watching closely.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm with crostini, cucumber slices, or pita.
Notes
– Use full-fat block feta for the best texture.
– Don’t over-broil — tomatoes and olives can burn quickly.
– Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
– Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave in short bursts.
– Pairs beautifully with crisp cucumber or toasted bread.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 25
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean