Authentic Baked Feta and Tomatoes
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Additional Time
35 mins
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Total Time
40 mins
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Servings
2 servings
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Course
Main Course, Appetizer
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Cuisine
Mediterranean, Greek
Authentic Baked Feta and Tomatoes
Description
This dish begins by spreading cherry tomatoes in a baking dish and drizzling them with olive oil to promote roasting and caramelization. The feta block is placed centrally atop the tomatoes, seasoned with oregano and freshly ground black pepper, and topped with a whole hot pepper to introduce gentle heat. Olive oil drizzled over the feta aids in baking and prevents drying.
Baking at 350°F for 35 minutes softens the tomatoes and makes their juices meld with the creamy feta, which can be broken up before serving to create a rustic, saucy texture. Adding fresh chopped herbs like mint or basil brightens the flavors and adds a herbal aroma that complements the creamy, tangy cheese and roasted tomatoes.
For a more substantial meal, cooked penne pasta can be tossed in with the baked mixture, absorbing the flavors and turning this into a comforting pasta dish. Otherwise, the baked feta and tomatoes can be served with bread as an appetizer to scoop up the softened cheese and juices.
Ingredients
- 15 ounces (400 g) cherry tomato
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 4 ounces (120 g) feta cheese in a block not crumbled
- black pepper fresh ground
- 1 tsp oregano dry
- 1 hot pepper small
- 2 tbsp mint or basil, fresh, chopped
- 4 oz (about 1 cup) penne pasta optional, or similar type, dry
Instructions
- Preheat the oven at 350 F (180 C)
- In medium sized baking dish spread the tomatoes.
- Drizzle 2 tablespoons over the tomatoes and toss.
- Place the feta in the center of the baking dish, sprinkle with oregano, black pepper and place the hot pepper on top of the feta. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- Bake for 35 minutes. If adding pasta, start boiling it now and set aside.
- Remove from oven and smash the feta -tomato a bit before serving.
- Sprinkle with chopped mint before serving
Notes
- To serve as an appetizer, accompany with fresh bread for dipping into the baked cheese and tomato juices.
- For a complete meal, add cooked penne or similar pasta and combine with the baked feta and tomatoes.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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