Marinated feta cheese is a savory, aromatic appetizer that transforms a simple block of feta into a gourmet delight. Infused with olive oil, herbs, garlic, and citrus zest, this dish is perfect for entertaining or elevating everyday meals. The marination process softens the cheese slightly and infuses it with layers of flavor—herbaceous, spicy, and citrusy. Serve it with crusty bread, crackers, or as part of a Mediterranean-inspired spread. It’s also a fantastic topping for salads, pasta, or roasted vegetables
Ingredients:
- 1 block of feta cheese (approx. 200g), cut into 1-inch cubes
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp dried thyme
- 1 tbsp dried basil
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp whole black peppercorns
- 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or parsley) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Feta
- Start by cutting the feta cheese into uniform 1-inch cubes. This size is ideal for absorbing flavor while maintaining structure.
- Place the cubes in a shallow dish or a clean glass jar with a wide mouth.
2. Mix the Marinade
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil with dried oregano, thyme, basil, red pepper flakes, black peppercorns, and sliced garlic.
- Stir well to ensure the herbs and spices are evenly distributed in the oil.
3. Marinate the Cheese
- Pour the herb-infused oil mixture over the feta cubes, ensuring all pieces are well-coated.
- Sprinkle the lemon zest evenly over the top. The zest adds a bright, citrusy note that balances the richness of the cheese and oil.
- Gently toss or stir the cubes to distribute the marinade evenly, being careful not to break the cheese.
4. Refrigerate and Infuse
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap or seal the jar with a lid.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, though overnight marination is ideal for deeper flavor.
- The oil will solidify slightly in the fridge, so allow the cheese to come to room temperature before serving.
5. Serve and Garnish
- Remove the marinated feta from the refrigerator about 15–20 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary sprigs, thyme, or chopped parsley for a pop of color and added aroma.
- Serve with:
- Crusty baguette slices
- Pita chips or crackers
- As part of a mezze platter with olives, hummus, and roasted vegetables
Tips & Variations:
- Add-ins: Try adding sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or roasted red peppers to the marinade for extra Mediterranean flair.
- Cheese Alternatives: This method also works beautifully with goat cheese, halloumi, or paneer.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. The flavors will intensify over time.
- Use the Oil: Don’t discard the leftover oil! It’s fantastic drizzled over salads, pasta, or grilled vegetables.
Serving Ideas:
- Charcuterie Board Star: Add marinated feta to a cheese board with cured meats, nuts, and fruit.
- Salad Upgrade: Crumble over a Greek salad or grain bowl.
- Pasta Topper: Toss with warm pasta and roasted cherry tomatoes for a quick meal.
This marinated feta cheese is a simple yet elegant way to elevate your appetizer game. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s a dish that brings a touch of the Mediterranean to your table. Want a spicy version with chili oil next? 🌶️