Description
Albanian Baked Feta is a delicious and easy Mediterranean-inspired dish that features creamy feta cheese baked with aromatic herbs and olive oil. This dish is perfect as an appetizer or a side dish, served with warm bread or crackers. The combination of savory feta, fresh herbs, and a hint of spice creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that everyone will love!
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz feta cheese (block or crumbled)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Warm bread or crackers for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish or oven-safe skillet with a little olive oil.
- Prepare the Feta: Place the block of feta cheese (or crumbled feta if preferred) in the prepared dish.
- Season the Feta: Drizzle the olive oil over the feta cheese. Sprinkle the dried oregano and red pepper flakes (if using) over the cheese. Add the minced garlic and season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Bake: Place the feta in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is soft, slightly golden, and starting to bubble around the edges.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the feta is done, remove it from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and basil. Optionally, add a touch of lemon zest for extra brightness. Serve immediately with warm bread, crackers, or fresh veggies for dipping.
Notes
- You can experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill for added flavor.
- For a richer flavor, add a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze after baking.
- This dish is great as an appetizer or a side to grilled meats or vegetables.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, try using a mixture of feta and cream cheese.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes1
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Albanian, Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the baked feta (for 4 servings)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 380
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg