Baked Feta with Cherry Tomatoes
Baked Feta with Cherry Tomatoes is a simple dish that bursts with fresh flavors. The juicy cherry tomatoes soften and release their sweetness as they bake alongside a block of…
Tip: save now, cook later.Baked Feta with Cherry Tomatoes is a simple dish that bursts with fresh flavors. The juicy cherry tomatoes soften and release their sweetness as they bake alongside a block of creamy feta cheese that turns warm and slightly golden. This combination creates a lovely mix of tart, salty, and sweet all in one cozy little bake.
I’ve made this many times when I want something quick but still impressive. What I love is how the tomatoes and feta practically melt together in the oven, making a perfect dip or topping for crusty bread or pasta. Sometimes, I sprinkle a little bit of oregano or chili flakes on top to give it just a touch of extra flavor—and it never fails to make everyone smile.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy this dish is straight from the baking dish, scooping it up with warm bread while it’s still hot and a little messy. It’s a great recipe to bring out when friends come over because it feels fancy but is so easy to put together. Plus, the colors of the red tomatoes and white feta make it look as good as it tastes!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Feta Cheese: Use a good quality block of feta, not crumbled. It melts better and keeps its shape. If you want a milder flavor, try goat cheese or halloumi as alternatives.
Cherry Tomatoes: These give sweet, juicy bursts when baked. If you can’t find cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes or small plum tomatoes work well too.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a fruity, rich taste. You can substitute with avocado oil or any neutral oil if needed, but olive oil is best.
Fresh Basil: This fresh herb adds a lovely brightness. If fresh basil is unavailable, try fresh parsley or oregano for another tasty option.
How Do You Get The Perfect Roasted Tomatoes and Soft, Creamy Feta?
The key to this dish is roasting at the right temperature and not overcooking. Follow these tips:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) for perfect roasting heat.
- Place feta in the center so it heats evenly, surrounded by the tomatoes.
- Drizzle olive oil generously to keep everything moist and help caramelize the tomatoes.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until tomatoes wrinkle and soften, and feta is warm but not dried out.
- Add fresh basil right after baking to retain its bright color and flavor.
This method locks in flavor and creates a creamy, warm feta paired with juicy, sweet tomatoes that’s great for scooping or mixing.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking dish – A small to medium oven-safe dish holds the feta and tomatoes well for even roasting.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – Perfect for gently scooping the softened feta and tomatoes without breaking them too much.
- Knife and cutting board – To chop fresh basil and mince garlic easily.
- Measuring spoons – For accurate olive oil, pepper, and chili flake amounts.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add sliced kalamata olives for a salty, briny boost that pairs well with the feta.
- Mix in fresh thyme or oregano for a more herbaceous, Mediterranean flavor.
- Stir in cooked pasta after baking to turn it into a quick, creamy pasta dish.
- Top with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for an added crunch and nutty richness.
Baked Feta with Cherry Tomatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 200 grams block of feta cheese
- 300 grams cherry tomatoes (mixed red and yellow if available)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about ¼ cup)
- Salt, to taste (be cautious as feta is already salty)
- Crusty bread or pasta, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. So overall, you are looking at approximately 35 to 40 minutes from start to finish—quick and great for an easy meal or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Arrange:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the block of feta cheese in the center of your baking dish. Scatter the cherry tomatoes evenly around the feta.
2. Season and Drizzle:
Drizzle olive oil over both the feta and tomatoes. Sprinkle black pepper and red chili flakes on top. Add minced garlic if you like for an extra burst of flavor.
3. Bake to Perfection:
Bake the dish for 25-30 minutes until the cherry tomatoes are blistered and softened, and the feta is warm and slightly golden on top.
4. Add Freshness and Serve:
Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle fresh chopped basil over the dish. Serve warm, scooping up the melted feta and roasted tomatoes on crusty bread, or mix it into cooked pasta for a tasty meal.
Can I Use Frozen Feta or Tomatoes for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh feta and cherry tomatoes for optimal flavor and texture. If using frozen tomatoes, thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before baking to avoid sogginess.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prepare it up to step 5 and refrigerate before baking. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold. Fresh basil should be added just before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave. The texture of the tomatoes may soften further but the flavors remain delicious.
What Can I Serve with Baked Feta and Cherry Tomatoes?
This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread for dipping, cooked pasta, or as a flavorful topping for grilled chicken or fish. You can also serve it alongside a fresh green salad for a lighter meal.
