Well it would appear that it is that time of year again...stockpiling your recipes for easy entertaining ideas and recipes that you can bring to a pot luck and wow your family and friends. But don't fret because we are here to help!
I stumbled across this idea while looking for different ways to use the bucket of feta that I had in my fridge and wanted something other than Greek Salad (although one of my favourites). It seemed like a perfect fit for the addition of some smoky goodness so I gave it a try and as always (lol) it was delicious!
The light smokiness of the olives was a great addition to the salty cheese and sharp lemon. The addition of the Smoked Sundried Kalamatas also added a beautiful sweetness. The cherry tomatoes were a last minute addition because I had an abundance popping up in the garden and I was not disappointed with the tang and pop of colour that they added. I used Greek style cow feta but next time I think I will try the Macedonian Feta, it is much creamier and I suspect it would be amazing.
Let me know what you think!
Ingredients
- Block of feta cheese (about 8 ounces)
- 1 cup smoked olives, (I mixed Smoked Pitted Castelvetranos & Smoked Sundried Kalamatas)
- 5-6 cherry tomatoes
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons hot honey (or adjust to taste)
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme or oregano) for garnish
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Crusty bread or pita, for serving
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the baking dish: In a small baking dish (or an oven-safe skillet), place the block of feta cheese in the center.
3. Add olives and garlic: Scatter the smoked olives and sliced garlic around the feta.
4. Season the dish: Drizzle the olive oil over the feta, olives, and garlic. Sprinkle the lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper over everything to taste.
5. Bake the feta: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the feta is soft and slightly golden.
6. Drizzle with hot honey: Remove the dish from the oven and drizzle the hot honey over the warm feta and olives.
7. Garnish and serve: Top with fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor. Serve immediately with crusty bread or pita for dipping.
Tips
- Feel free to adjust the amount of hot honey based on your heat preference. You could also mix in some chili flakes if you want additional heat.
- This dish is wonderfully versatile! You can mix in other ingredients, like sundried tomatoes or roasted red peppers, to add more flavor and colour.