Baked Feta Cheese and Tomatoes

Heavenly Baked Feta Cheese and Tomatoes: A Taste of the Mediterranean!

Are you ready to elevate your appetizer game with a dish that’s bursting with Mediterranean flavors? Look no further than this delectable recipe for Baked Feta Cheese and Tomatoes. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that’s as impressive as it is delicious. Let’s dive into the recipe, cooking tips, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions of this mouthwatering Mediterranean delight!

Introduction

There’s something magical about the combination of feta cheese, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. In this recipe, we take those classic Mediterranean flavors and elevate them to new heights by baking them together to create a dish that’s rich, savory, and utterly irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a flavorful appetizer to enjoy with a glass of wine, Baked Feta Cheese and Tomatoes is sure to impress. Let’s explore how to make this culinary masterpiece!

Ingredients:

For the Baked Feta Cheese and Tomatoes:

  • 1 (7-oz) block Greek feta cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes
  • 1/3 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Drizzle of olive oil

For Serving:

  • Fresh basil leaves, torn
  • 1/3 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
  • 1 tbsp honey (optional, for drizzling)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Prepare the Feta Cheese and Tomatoes: In a baking dish, arrange the cherry or grape tomatoes, red onion slices, and minced garlic. Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the dish, surrounded by the tomatoes and onions.
  3. Season and Drizzle: Sprinkle the dried oregano over the tomatoes and feta cheese. Season everything with salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top of the tomatoes and cheese.
  4. Bake: Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tomatoes have softened, and the feta cheese is golden and slightly melted.
  5. Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and garnish with torn fresh basil leaves and halved Kalamata olives. If desired, drizzle a little honey over the top for a touch of sweetness.
  6. Enjoy: Serve the Baked Feta Cheese and Tomatoes immediately, while still warm. Spread the creamy, melted feta cheese and tomatoes onto slices of crusty bread or enjoy them on their own as a delightful appetizer.

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • Add Fresh Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different fresh herbs in this recipe. Fresh oregano, thyme, or parsley would all make wonderful additions to the dish.
  • Try Different Cheeses: While feta cheese is traditional for this recipe, you can also use other types of cheese such as goat cheese or halloumi. Each cheese will bring its own unique flavor and texture to the dish.
  • Add Protein: For a heartier dish, consider adding some protein such as cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or chickpeas to the baking dish before baking.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Version: To make this recipe keto-friendly, omit the honey drizzle and serve the Baked Feta Cheese and Tomatoes with low-carb vegetables such as cucumber slices or bell pepper strips.

Low-Carb Version: Serve the Baked Feta Cheese and Tomatoes over a bed of fresh salad greens or alongside grilled vegetables for a satisfying low-carb meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use other types of tomatoes for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use any type of tomatoes you prefer, such as Roma tomatoes or heirloom tomatoes. Just be sure to adjust the slicing or chopping accordingly based on the size and shape of the tomatoes.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: While the dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and assemble them in the baking dish. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake. Allow the dish to come to room temperature before baking as directed.

Q: What can I serve with Baked Feta Cheese and Tomatoes? A: This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread, pita chips, or crackers for dipping. You can also serve it alongside a mezze platter with olives, hummus, and tzatziki for a complete Mediterranean-inspired spread.

Baked Feta Cheese and Tomatoes is a simple yet elegant dish that celebrates the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean. With its creamy feta cheese, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, this recipe is sure to tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a taste of the Mediterranean with this irresistible recipe!