Mediterranean Baked Feta Appetizer with Pita

🧀 Mediterranean Baked Feta Appetizer with Pita

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

For the Baked Feta:

• 1 block (200–250g) feta cheese

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• ¼ cup Kalamata olives, sliced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• 1 tbsp honey (optional, for sweetness)

• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped

For Serving:

• Pita bread or pita chips

• Extra olive oil for drizzling

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prep

1. Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).

2. Place feta block in the center of a small baking dish.

Step 2: Add Toppings

1. Scatter cherry tomatoes, olives, and garlic around the feta.

2. Drizzle olive oil over everything.

3. Sprinkle oregano, black pepper, and chili flakes.

4. Add honey if using.

Step 3: Bake

1. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until feta is soft and tomatoes are blistered.

2. Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes for a golden top.

Step 4: Garnish & Serve

1. Sprinkle fresh herbs on top.

2. Drizzle with a little more olive oil.

3. Serve warm with pita bread or chips.

❓ Q & A

Q1: Can I use crumbled feta instead of a block?

A block is best—it becomes creamy and scoopable. Crumbles may dry out.

Q2: Can I make this in the air fryer?

Yes! Air fry at 180°C for 10–12 minutes.

Q3: What else can I add?

Great additions:

• Roasted red peppers

• Artichokes

• Sun-dried tomatoes

• Capers

Q4: Is this appetizer spicy?

Mildly. Skip chili flakes if you want zero heat.

Q5: Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble everything and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Q6: What can I serve with it besides pita?

• Crostini

• Crackers

• Tortilla chips

• Fresh veggie sticks

Q7: Is this healthy?

Yes! It contains healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants.

Q8: Can I make it vegan?

Use vegan feta or marinated tofu as a substitute.