Description
Albanian Baked Feta is a simple and flavorful appetizer featuring creamy feta cheese baked until soft and slightly golden, infused with olive oil, garlic, oregano, and optional red pepper flakes for a mild kick. Garnished with fresh herbs and lemon zest, it pairs perfectly with warm bread or crackers for a delightful Mediterranean-inspired starter.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese
- 8 oz feta cheese (block or crumbled)
Seasonings and Garnishes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Serving
- Warm bread or crackers for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish or oven-safe skillet with a little olive oil to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Prepare the Feta: Place the block of feta cheese, or crumbled feta if you prefer, into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly if crumbled.
- Season the Feta: Drizzle the olive oil over the cheese. Sprinkle the dried oregano and red pepper flakes (if using) evenly on top. Add the minced garlic and season with freshly ground black pepper to your taste.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the feta becomes soft, slightly golden on top, and starts to bubble around the edges. This ensures it’s warm, creamy, and flavorful.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, carefully remove the feta from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and basil if using. Optionally, sprinkle lemon zest over the top for extra brightness and aroma. Serve immediately with warm bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Notes
- Using block feta cheese yields a more impressive presentation, but crumbled feta works well too.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level or omit if you want a milder dish.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the feta warm and creamy, as it will firm up when cooled.
- Optional herbs and lemon zest elevate the flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Try serving with pita bread, baguette slices, or vegetable sticks for variety.
