If you’ve never tried Marinated Feta, let me warn you: you’ll wonder how you ever hosted a gathering without it. This recipe transforms creamy, salty feta into a tangy, herby, irresistibly luscious appetizer that’s just as perfect spooned over salads or spread onto crusty bread as it is eaten straight from the jar.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Instant Wow Factor: Marinated Feta is a showstopper that elevates even the most casual snack boards and will have guests clamoring for your “secret.”
- Bursting with Herby Flavor: Fresh basil, thyme, and oregano infuse every morsel with vibrant Mediterranean notes, taking salty feta to a whole new level.
- Ridiculously Simple: With just a handful of humble ingredients and five minutes of prep, you’ll have a crave-worthy appetizer ready any day of the week.
- Meal-Prep Magic: Make it ahead, store it in the fridge, and enjoy as a snack, salad topper, or flavor booster for days.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Marinated Feta is just how minimal—and yet totally essential—each ingredient is. Every one brings its own punch of flavor, texture, and color, working together to create something truly special from simple staples.
- Olive Oil (¾ cup): Rich, silky, and the backbone of every good marinade. Use the best quality extra virgin you can—your tastebuds will thank you.
- Fresh Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds sharpness and depth; just remember, fresh garlic gives the boldest flavor, but be sure to follow safety tips for storage.
- Fresh Basil (1 tbsp, chiffonade): Sliced into delicate ribbons, basil brings an aromatic sweetness and verdant color that brightens the whole jar.
- Fresh Thyme (1 tbsp, minced): This woodsy herb is classic with feta and infuses the cheese with delightful earthiness.
- Fresh Oregano (1 tbsp, minced): Oregano’s peppery bite balances the creaminess of the feta—feel free to substitute dried if that’s what you have.
- Red Chili Flakes (¼ tsp, optional): For a subtle, tingly background heat—add more or less to suit your spice preferences.
- Feta Cheese (8 oz, cut in ¼-inch cubes): The star! Choose block feta packed in brine for the best texture and flavor; skip the pre-crumbled stuff for this.
Variations
Once you’ve tasted your first batch of Marinated Feta, you’ll quickly see how easy it is to riff on the recipe and make it your own. Whether you’re working with what’s on hand or aiming to impress a crowd, these twists will keep things fresh every single time.
- Citrus Zest Twist: Swap in strips of lemon or orange zest for the garlic to add bright, aromatic notes (and extra longevity for fridge storage).
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Toss in a few slivers for tangy, chewy bites that beautifully complement the creamy feta and herbs.
- Whole Spices: Add a few coriander seeds or black peppercorns for subtle spicy undertones and a flavor infusion reminiscent of Mediterranean markets.
- Switch Your Cheese: Try cubes of halloumi or even creamy goat cheese for a totally different, but equally delicious, marinated bite.
How to Make Marinated Feta
Step 1: Prep the Marinade
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, fresh basil, thyme, oregano, and (if using) the red chili flakes. Take a second to breathe in the fragrance—the aroma alone is your first clue just how flavor-packed your Marinated Feta will be!
Step 2: Cube the Feta
Cut the block of feta cheese into ¼-inch cubes. Don’t worry about absolute precision—rustic chunks are just fine! This keeps the feta sturdy enough to marinate while still creamy and spreadable when you serve it.
Step 3: Combine and Chill
Add the feta cubes to the bowl with the marinade and gently fold until every piece is beautifully coated. Transfer the mixture to a jar or airtight container, making sure all the cheese is submerged in oil. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 days) to let the flavors fully mingle.
Pro Tips for Making Marinated Feta
- Feta Selection Matters: Block feta in brine stays firmer and soaks up the marinade flavors best—skip the pre-crumbled versions for this recipe!
- Fresh Herbs for Freshness: If you love vibrant color and bright flavor, opt for fresh basil and herbs; but dried work beautifully when fresh is out of season.
- Mind the Garlic: Always store Marinated Feta in the fridge and eat within 4 days to keep things fresh and food-safe; for longer storage, swap garlic for citrus zest.
- Oil Coverage is Key: Make sure the feta is completely submerged in oil—this preserves flavor and texture, and prevents drying out.
How to Serve Marinated Feta
Garnishes
For an extra pop of color and freshness, sprinkle your Marinated Feta with a few reserved basil ribbons, a pinch of crushed chili flakes, or a shower of grated lemon zest just before serving—it takes just seconds, but the effect is gorgeous.
Side Dishes
Pair your Marinated Feta with warm pita, crusty sourdough, or crisp flatbreads for a party spread. It’s also incredibly delicious tossed over leafy salads, roasted vegetables, or alongside olives and charcuterie on a mezze board.
Creative Ways to Present
Try spooning Marinated Feta into small decorative jars for edible hostess gifts, or skewer the cubes with cherry tomatoes and cucumber for Greek-inspired appetizers. Set out a bowl with toothpicks at brunch, or top grain bowls for a Mediterranean twist—so many ways to let this bright, herby feta shine!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Marinated Feta keeps best when completely submerged in olive oil in an airtight container in the fridge. Enjoy within 4 days to ensure safety and peak flavor—the flavors actually mingle and intensify as it rests!
Freezing
Freezing Marinated Feta isn’t recommended, as both the texture of the cheese and the herbs become mushy and watery when thawed. For best results, make only as much as you’ll use within a few days.
Reheating
No reheating needed here! If you’d like to serve Marinated Feta warm (for a meltier texture), gently bring it to room temperature and serve—not only does the oil become silkier, but the flavors truly pop.
FAQs
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Can I use pre-crumbled feta for Marinated Feta?
Pre-crumbled feta is convenient, but blocks of feta have the best texture and absorb the marinade flavors much better. For a truly creamy and flavorful Marinated Feta, stick to block feta and cut it into cubes yourself.
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How long does Marinated Feta last in the fridge?
For food safety, Marinated Feta should be enjoyed within 4 days if you’ve included fresh garlic. If you’d like it to last longer, omit the garlic or use citrus zest instead as a flavor infusion.
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Is it safe to use raw garlic in Marinated Feta?
Raw garlic in oil can introduce a rare risk of botulism if not stored properly. As long as you keep your Marinated Feta refrigerated and eat it within 4 days, it’s safe and delicious! For longer storage, simply omit the raw garlic and try lemon zest or extra herbs for flavor.
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What else can I do with leftover marinade?
That leftover herby olive oil is liquid gold—drizzle it over grilled veggies, stir into pasta, or mop it up with fresh bread. Don’t let a single drop go to waste!
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something vibrant and crave-worthy, I can’t recommend Marinated Feta enough. It’s easy, endlessly customizable, and absolutely delicious—so don’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to for everything from easy snacks to elegant entertaining. Give it a try and watch just how fast it disappears!
Print
Marinated Feta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Eight 1/4-cup, 1-ounce servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Marinating
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Marinated Feta recipe is a flavorful and versatile dish that can be served as a snack or appetizer. The feta cheese is infused with a blend of olive oil, garlic, herbs, and optional chili flakes for a delicious marinated treat.
Ingredients
Marinated Feta:
- 3/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil chiffonade (or 1 1/2 teaspoon dried)
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh thyme or 1 1/2 teaspoon dried
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh oregano or 1 1/2 teaspoon dried
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
- 1 (8-ounce) package feta cheese, cut into 1/4 inch-sized pieces
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic, basil, thyme, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Add feta and toss to combine.
- Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to blend flavors, up to 4 days.
Notes
- Garlic: I love the flavor of fresh garlic in marinated feta, but be cautious about storage due to the risk of botulism.
- Fresh basil: Use fresh herbs for optimal flavor or substitute with dried herbs.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: Adjust to your spice preference.
- Feta: Opt for block feta for best results.
- Yield: Eight 1/4-cup, 1-ounce servings.
- Storage: Store submerged in oil in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
