Easy Baked Feta and Tomato Dip Recipe
Looking for a delectable appetizer that impresses every guest and is incredibly easy to make? This easy Baked feta and tomato dip recipe is your answer! This dip combines creamy feta cheese and succulent, roasted tomatoes, creating a tart yet savory flavor that dances on your taste buds. Originating from Mediterranean cuisine, the dish highlights the region’s most beloved ingredients while bursting with aromatic herbs and spices. You will fall in love with this delightful dip that caters to all palates—it’s a crowd-pleaser whether served at parties, family gatherings, or even cozy nights in. Best of all? You can whip up this homemade Baked feta and tomato dip from scratch in just under an hour!
With a total prep time of 10 minutes and a cook time of 30 minutes, you’ll have this delicious dip ready to serve in no time. Ideal for sharing, this recipe yields about 4 servings, making it perfect for entertaining friends or enjoying a night in. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients for a vegan Baked feta and tomato dip. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients
For the Dip
- 1 block (200g) feta cheese
- 4-5 medium-sized ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Possible Ingredient Swaps
- For a vegan Baked feta and tomato dip, substitute feta cheese with a plant-based feta alternative made from almond or coconut.
- If you don’t have ripe tomatoes, fire-roasted canned tomatoes work beautifully in this recipe!
- For an aromatic boost, consider adding a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar or honey for a touch of sweetness.
- Use almond milk instead of whole milk for a dairy-free option.
Equipment List
- Oven-safe baking dish (about 8×8 inch)
- Medium mixing bowl
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Aluminum foil (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a nice, warm environment for the dip to bake evenly.
- Prepare the Tomatoes: In a medium mixing bowl, add the chopped tomatoes. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then sprinkle with minced garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Gently toss until the tomatoes are well coated. The aromas should already start tantalizing your senses!
- Assemble the Dish: Take your oven-safe baking dish and add the coated tomatoes evenly dispersed at the bottom. Cradle the block of feta cheese in the center, gently pressing it down into the tomatoes.
- Drizzle and Bake: Pour the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the feta cheese, ensuring it’s glistening and inviting. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the tomatoes have softened, and the feta begins to melt and brown slightly. You will know it’s ready once the cheese is golden and has a luscious aroma!
- Serve Hot: Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Let it sit for 5 minutes to cool slightly. If desired, sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the dip for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm with crusty bread, pita chips, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Special Notes
To store leftovers, place the cooled dip in an airtight container; it can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dip in an oven-safe container and heat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. If the dip thickens too much, adding a splash of water or olive oil can help regain its creamy consistency.
If you want to prepare this dip ahead of time, you can assemble everything except for the baking step and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply pop it into the oven following the same instructions as above.
Variations and Customizations
- Gluten-free: Serve with gluten-free crackers or vegetable sticks for dipping.
- Low-carb: Pair with cucumber slices or cheese crisps for a delightful low-carb option.
- Herb Twist: Experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary to customize the flavor of your dip.
- Cheesy Delight: If you love additional cheese, consider adding mozzarella or goat cheese to the mix during baking!
Nutritional Information (Estimated per serving)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 9g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
Engaging Visual Details
As you prepare this baked dip, envision the vibrant colors of sun-ripened tomatoes lightly blistered and shimmering around the creamy, golden feta. The aroma of roasted garlic mingling with herbs will leave you craving that first bite. When plated, the dish should look inviting, with basil leaves providing a lush green contrast against the warm, red, and white hues. Don’t forget to capture your culinary triumph—photos would beautifully showcase each stage, especially the bubbling dip right out of the oven!
Conclusion
This easy Baked feta and tomato dip recipe is sure to become a staple in your entertaining repertoire. Quick, delightful, and packed with flavor, it elevates any gathering or quiet evening spent at home. Try out this homemade Baked feta and tomato dip from scratch and experience the magic for yourself! Leave a comment below if you tried this recipe or share your version on Instagram and tag us with MyDeliciousDish. We can’t wait to see your creations!
