Name: Mediterranean Baked Feta Appetizer
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 block feta cheese; 1 cup cherry tomatoes; 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 3 garlic cloves, sliced; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or oregano; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1 loaf crusty bread or pita, for serving

Warm, creamy feta cheese baked with juicy cherry tomatoes, garlic, and herbs makes for a crowd-pleasing dish that feels rustic and effortless. This Mediterranean Baked Feta Appetizer is a celebration of simplicity: a handful of bold, sun-kissed ingredients mingle in the oven to create a bubbly, golden spread you can scoop straight onto crusty bread.

Whether you’re entertaining or just looking for a cozy way to start a dinner at home, this recipe brings the flavors of the Mediterranean to your table with little fuss and maximum flavor. It looks stunning straight from the oven, and tastes even better.

Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Baked Feta Appetizer

This dish hits the sweet spot between low-effort and high-impact. You only need a few ingredients to create something that tastes gourmet. The creamy, salty feta softens into a spoonable texture as it bakes, while the tomatoes burst and blend with olive oil and garlic for a sauce-like consistency that begs to be scooped. It works as a starter, part of a mezze board, or even tossed with pasta.

What Kind of Feta Should I Use?

Choose a block of feta cheese, not the crumbled kind. Blocks hold their shape better during baking and melt into that perfect creamy texture. Sheep’s milk feta offers the most authentic flavor, but cow’s milk feta works well too. Just make sure it’s packed in brine for the best texture and taste.

Ingredients for the Mediterranean Baked Feta Appetizer

This dish is all about letting good ingredients shine. Each element plays a role in creating a rich, savory flavor profile that feels luxurious but stays grounded in simplicity.

Feta cheese block
Cherry tomatoes
Extra virgin olive oil
Garlic cloves
Fresh thyme or oregano
Crushed red pepper flakes
Freshly cracked black pepper
Lemon zest
Crusty bread or pita for serving

How To Make the Mediterranean Baked Feta Appetizer

Step 1: Preheat and Prep the Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a small baking dish that comfortably holds the block of feta and allows room for the tomatoes to nestle around it.

Step 2: Assemble the Ingredients

Place the block of feta in the center of the baking dish. Surround it with cherry tomatoes, then scatter sliced garlic cloves and sprinkle with fresh thyme. Drizzle everything generously with olive oil so it coats the tomatoes and cheese.

Step 3: Season and Bake

Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes and black pepper to taste. Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 25 minutes, until the feta is soft and slightly golden and the tomatoes are blistered and juicy.

Step 4: Finish With Zest and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle lemon zest over the top for brightness. Serve immediately with warm crusty bread or pita for scooping.

How to Serve and Store Mediterranean Baked Feta Appetizer

This appetizer is best enjoyed straight from the oven while it’s still warm and bubbly. It makes a perfect starter for 4 to 6 people or a snack for two if you’re feeling indulgent. Serve it directly in the baking dish to keep things rustic and fuss-free.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, pop it back in the oven at 350°F until warm and melty again. You can also repurpose it as a pasta sauce or layer it into a grain bowl.

What to Serve With Mediterranean Baked Feta Appetizer?

Grilled Naan or Pita

Warm, charred flatbreads are perfect for scooping up the cheesy, juicy goodness.

Roasted Olives

Add a bowl of herb-roasted olives to your spread for extra salty, savory notes.

Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl

Pair with something heartier like the Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl to turn your appetizer into a full meal.

Classic Caprese Salad

Bright and fresh, it contrasts beautifully with the baked feta.

Crispy Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls

Add a spicy crunch to your table with these crispy egg rolls.

Roasted Asparagus

Balance the richness of the cheese with lightly seasoned roasted asparagus spears.

Greek Lemon Potatoes

These zesty, golden potatoes echo the Mediterranean flavors beautifully.

Want More Appetizer Ideas with a Mediterranean Twist?

If you’re into bold, simple appetizers like this baked feta, you might love these too:

Air Fryer Stuffed Pickles for a tangy crunch.
Crispy Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls with a spicy bite.
Classic Caprese Salad Recipe for fresh and bright balance.
Greek Lemon Potatoes as a citrusy companion.
Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl to complete your mezze table.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can revisit it anytime you’re craving something warm, cheesy, and Mediterranean.

Let me know how yours turned out! Did you use oregano or thyme? Maybe added some olives or capers? I love hearing your tweaks.

Explore beautifully curated Mediterranean and health-boosting appetizers on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and find your next flavor favorite.

Conclusion

The Mediterranean Baked Feta Appetizer is one of those recipes that brings people together effortlessly. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and always a hit. Whether you’re hosting or just treating yourself, it turns a few pantry staples into something truly memorable.