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Baked Feta Cheese and Tomatoes

Shruthi
Baked Feta Cheese and Tomatoes is a classic Mediterranean dish featuring a block of creamy feta baked with sweet cherry tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, oregano, and fresh herbs until warm, soft, and flavorful. Finished with basil and served alongside crusty bread or pita, this easy recipe is ready in just 35 minutes and works perfectly as an appetizer, side dish, or light vegetarian meal. Rich in Mediterranean flavors and naturally gluten-free, it's a delicious addition to any table.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Appetizer, Light Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine greek, Mediterranean
Servings 4
Calories 289 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Bake

  • 8 ounces (225 g) block feta cheese
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For Garnish

  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
  • Freshly cracked black pepper

For Serving

  • Crusty artisan bread
  • Toasted baguette slices
  • Warm pita bread
  • Crackers
  • Cooked pasta
  • Grilled vegetables

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
    Lightly grease a small baking dish.
  • Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the baking dish.
    Arrange the cherry tomatoes around the cheese.
    Sprinkle the garlic evenly over the tomatoes.
    Drizzle everything with olive oil.
    Season with:
    OreganoThymeCrushed red pepper flakes (optional)Black pepper
  • Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the tomatoes have burst and become tender.
    For a lightly browned top, switch the oven to broil for 2–3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  • Remove the baking dish from the oven.
    Using a fork, gently mash the softened feta into the roasted tomatoes to create a creamy sauce.
  • Top with:
    Serve immediately with warm bread, pita, crackers, or toss with freshly cooked pasta.
    Fresh basilChopped parsleyLemon zest (optional)Freshly cracked black pepper

Notes

  • Use block feta packed in brine for the creamiest texture.
  • Cherry or grape tomatoes work best because they become naturally sweet when roasted.
  • High-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the overall flavor.
  • Fresh basil should be added after baking.
  • Broiling creates a beautiful golden finish.
  • This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
  • Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • It can also be used as a pasta sauce or sandwich spread.
Keyword Baked Feta Cheese, Easy Feta Bake, Greek Recipe, Mediterranean appetizer, Roasted Tomatoes, vegetarian dinner