Baked Feta Cheese and Tomatoes

Mediterranean Delight: Baked Feta Cheese and Tomatoes

Indulge in the sun-soaked flavors of the Mediterranean with our Baked Feta Cheese and Tomatoes recipe. This dish transforms a handful of fresh, vibrant ingredients into a culinary masterpiece that captures the essence of the Mediterranean diet. As the feta cheese bakes to creamy perfection, it melds with sweet cherry tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and briny olives. Join us on a journey through the step-by-step process, cooking tips, delightful variations, and even keto and low-carb adaptations for a dish that promises to transport your taste buds to the shores of Greece.

Ingredients

Produce

  • 1 Fresh basil
  • 1 1/2 cups Cherry or grape tomatoes
  • 1 Clove garlic
  • 1 tsp Dried oregano
  • 1/3 cup Red onion

Condiments

  • 1 tbsp Honey
  • 1/3 cup Kalamata olives

Baking & Spices

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Oils & Vinegars

  • Drizzle of olive oil
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil

Dairy

  • 1 (7-oz) block Greek feta cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for the baking process.
  2. Assemble Ingredients: Arrange the cherry tomatoes, garlic, red onion, and Kalamata olives around the feta block on a baking dish.

Step 2: Create the Flavor Base

  1. Drizzle Olive Oil: Generously drizzle olive oil over the feta and the surrounding tomatoes, ensuring each ingredient gets a coating.
  2. Season with Herbs: Sprinkle dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper over the feta and tomatoes. These seasonings will infuse the dish with aromatic flavors.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

  1. Bake in the Oven: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the feta turns golden and the tomatoes blister.

Step 4: Final Touch

  1. Add Fresh Basil and Honey: Once out of the oven, scatter fresh basil leaves over the dish and drizzle honey for a touch of sweetness.
  2. Serve Warm: This dish is best enjoyed immediately while the feta is warm and creamy.

Cook Notes

  • Feta Selection: Opt for high-quality Greek feta for an authentic taste. The block variety works best for this recipe.
  • Olive Oil Quality: Use extra virgin olive oil for a robust flavor that complements the other ingredients.
  • Tomato Burst: If you enjoy a burst of tomato flavor, gently press down on some of the tomatoes after baking to release their juices.

Variations

Mediterranean Bread Bowl

Serve the baked feta and tomatoes in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a visually stunning centerpiece. Guests can tear off pieces of the bread and scoop up the delectable mixture.

Herb Infusion

Experiment with additional herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the aromatic profile of the dish.

Keto Versions

Cheesy Zoodle Nest

For a keto twist, serve the baked feta and tomatoes over spiralized zucchini (zoodles) for a low-carb, high-flavor experience.

Cauliflower Rice Bed

Create a bed of cauliflower rice to absorb the savory juices, providing a keto-friendly alternative to traditional grains.

Low-Carb Versions

Eggplant Boat Bounty

Roast eggplant halves alongside the feta and tomatoes, creating a low-carb boat that’s both satisfying and flavorful.

Avocado Vessel

Serve the baked feta and tomatoes in halved avocados for a creamy, low-carb alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

While feta is the classic choice, you can experiment with goat cheese, halloumi, or even a blend of Mediterranean cheeses for a unique twist.

2. How do I prevent the feta from drying out?

Ensure your oven temperature is not too high, and monitor the baking time closely to prevent over-drying. A drizzle of olive oil helps retain moisture.

3. What can I serve this with?

This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, pita chips, or as a side to grilled meats. It’s also delightful on its own as a light lunch or appetizer.

4. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or any other Mediterranean vegetables to customize the dish to your liking.

5. Is this dish suitable for a summer gathering?

Certainly! The vibrant colors and refreshing flavors make it an ideal addition to any summer spread or picnic.

Baked Feta Cheese and Tomatoes bring the heartwarming flavors of the Mediterranean straight to your table. With a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and sweet elements, this dish is a testament to the simple yet profound beauty of Mediterranean cuisine. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or venture into keto and low-carb variations, the result is a culinary masterpiece that transports you to the sun-drenched landscapes of Greece. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and prepare to savor a taste of the Mediterranean in every delightful bite.