Baked Feta with Cherry Tomatoes & Olive Oil Drizzle

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Description

This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines creamy feta cheese, juicy cherry tomatoes, garlic, and extra virgin olive oil baked until bubbly and golden. The warmth softens the feta into a spreadable texture while the roasted tomatoes burst with natural sweetness. Perfect as a dip, side dish, or served over pasta or crusty bread—it’s simple, comforting, and packed with flavor.

Ingredients For Baked Feta with Cherry Tomatoes & Olive Oil Drizzle

  • 1 block (200g / 7 oz) feta cheese

  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved or whole)

  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 tsp dried oregano (or thyme)

  • ½ tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)

  • Salt & black pepper, to taste

  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).

  2. In a small baking dish, place the feta block in the center.

  3. Scatter cherry tomatoes around it.

  4. Sprinkle with garlic, oregano, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.

  5. Drizzle everything generously with olive oil.

  6. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until tomatoes burst and feta is soft and lightly golden.

  7. Garnish with fresh basil and an extra drizzle of olive oil.

  8. Serve hot with crusty bread, pita, or toss with cooked pasta.

Notes

  • Use good-quality feta (preferably Greek sheep’s milk) for best flavor.

  • If you like creamier consistency, mash feta and tomatoes together after baking.

  • Can be made in an air fryer at 180°C (350°F) for 15 minutes.

  • Great served as a party appetizer, dip, or pasta sauce base.

Tips

  • Add olives, capers, or roasted peppers for more flavor depth.

  • For a low-carb option, serve with roasted vegetables instead of bread.

  • To make it heartier, mix with cooked penne pasta right after baking.

  • Drizzle with honey before serving for a sweet-savory twist.

Servings

  • Serves 4–6 people as an appetizer or dip.

  • Serves 2–3 people as a main with bread or pasta.

Nutritional Info (per serving, approx. 1/6 of recipe)

  • Calories: 170 kcal

  • Protein: 6g

  • Fat: 14g

  • Carbohydrates: 5g

  • Fiber: 1g

  • Sodium: 370mg

Benefits

  • Rich in protein & calcium from feta.

  • Healthy fats from extra virgin olive oil support heart health.

  • Antioxidants from cherry tomatoes boost immunity and skin health.

  • Quick, simple, and versatile Mediterranean diet–friendly dish.

Q&A

Q: Can I use crumbled feta instead of a block?
A: Yes, but a block holds shape better and melts creamier.

Q: What if I don’t have cherry tomatoes?
A: You can use grape tomatoes or chopped regular tomatoes.

Q: Can this be made vegan?
A: Use plant-based feta alternatives.

Q: How long does it store?
A: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in oven or microwave.

Q: Can I make it spicier?
A: Add extra chili flakes or a drizzle of hot honey.

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