Easy Marinated Feta with Olives Recipe
Indulge your taste buds with this easy marinated feta with olives recipe, a flavorful Mediterranean delight that brings a taste of the sun-kissed Greek islands right to your table. This dish showcases creamy, tangy feta cheese infused with aromatic herbs, zesty citrus, and the briny, rich flavors of olives, creating a delightful combination that is perfect for parties, picnics, or a cozy night in. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a tasty snack, this homemade marinated feta is bound to be a showstopper.
With its roots deeply planted in Mediterranean cuisine, marinated feta has become a staple in various culinary traditions. It is not only a versatile dish, but it can also be made entirely from scratch, allowing the ingredients to shine in a beautiful harmony of flavors. Plus, this recipe is easily adaptable for those looking for a vegan marinated feta with olives alternative. Let’s dive into the enticing world of marinated feta, starting with the essentials!
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (marinating time required)
- Total Time: 24 hours (includes marinating time)
- Serving Size: 4-6 servings
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
For the Feta and Olives:
- 8 oz feta cheese (block or crumbled)
- 1 cup mixed olives (e.g., kalamata, green), pitted and halved
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Possible Ingredient Substitutions:
- Drizzle balsamic vinegar instead of red wine vinegar for a sweeter flavor.
- Replace feta with a vegan feta option if desired.
- Swap the olives for sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts to customize the dish.
Equipment List
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Glass jar or airtight container (for marinating)
- Knife and cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, dried thyme, minced garlic, lemon zest, and cracked black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together vigorously until well blended. The aromatic herbs should infuse the oil immediately, creating a fragrant marinade.
- Cut the Feta: If using a block of feta cheese, gently cut it into cubes or crumbles, depending on your texture preference. Aim to create uniform pieces, about 1-inch thick, to ensure even marination.
- Add Feta to Marinade: Place the cut feta cheese or crumbles into the jar or airtight container. Pour the prepared marinade over the cheese until it is fully submerged. Ensure that the garlic, herbs, and lemon zest are evenly distributed throughout the container.
- Add Olives: Gently fold in the mixed olives, making sure they are also coated with the delicious marinade. The marinating olives will further enhance the dish’s flavor profile.
- Marinate: Seal the container tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Allow the mixture to marinate for at least 24 hours to develop the flavors. The longer it sits, the better the flavor will be! If you can wait a few days, the taste will continue to improve.
- Serve: When ready to serve, remove the marinated feta and olives from the refrigerator. Arrange them on a serving platter, drizzling some of the marinade over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Special Notes
- Storing: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. The marinated feta and olives make a great addition to salads, pastas, or as a topping for pizzas.
- Reheating: This dish is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is necessary.
- Make Ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping! As it tastes even better after sitting, consider making it ahead of your upcoming gatherings.
- Troubleshooting: If the marinade doesn’t seem to coat the feta or olives adequately, adjust with a little more oil or vinegar to achieve your desired consistency.
Variations and Customizations
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is inherently gluten-free! Serve with gluten-free crackers or slices of gluten-free bread for a delightful appetizer.
- Vegan Option: Use a plant-based feta alternative and ensure that all other ingredients, including olives, meet vegan standards.
- Additional Flavors: Consider adding additional ingredients such as crushed red pepper flakes for heat, bell peppers, or pepperoncini for extra zing.
Nutritional Information
(Estimated per serving based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
Engaging Visual Details
The marinated feta with olives should visually entice your guests with its colorful presentation. Expect to see gleaming, golden olive oil glistening atop a vibrant array of green and black olives, balanced by the clean whites of the feta cheese. As the dish marinates, the herbs will expand, adding flecks of green that enhance the overall appearance.
When served, the aroma of the garlic and herbs should fill the room, drawing eager guests to the table. Suggest including high-quality photographs or a short video to showcase each step of the process, making it even easier for readers to connect with the recipe.
Conclusion
This easy marinated feta with olives recipe is not only a delicious treat but a versatile dish that can elevate any dining experience. Its simplicity and the ease of making it from scratch ensure it will become a beloved staple in your culinary repertoire. So why not give it a try?
Leave a comment below if you tried this recipe! Or better yet, share your version on Instagram and tag us with MyDeliciousDish – we can’t wait to see your culinary creativity come to life!
