Name: Mediterranean Baked Feta Dip Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-492002H20M15S
Total time: PT-492002H20M15S
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 8 ounces block feta cheese; 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, drained and halved; 1/2 cup pitted green olives, drained and halved; 1 cup grape tomatoes; 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1 tablespoon honey; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon zaatar; Pinch red pepper flakes; Kosher salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Fresh herbs (cilantro, parsley) for garnish; Drizzle of honey (optional); Pita or pita puffs for serving

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 67 reviews

If you’re searching for a crowd-pleaser that nudges your taste buds to a sunny Mediterranean escape, look no further than this Mediterranean Baked Feta Dip Recipe. It’s a vibrant, cozy blend of creamy feta melting into sweet roasted tomatoes, briny olives, and a fragrant drizzle of herbs and honey. Perfectly balanced, this dip is both rustic and elegant, delivering a punch of flavor every time you scoop into it. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply craving a comforting snack, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white square dish filled with a layer of bright red tomato slices spread evenly across the bottom. In the center, there is a thick rectangular block of white cheese placed flat. On top of the cheese and scattered around the tomatoes are dark purple and green olives, some whole and some sliced. The dish is sprinkled with a green herb seasoning and drizzled with golden olive oil. The dish sits on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic in this Mediterranean Baked Feta Dip Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an essential role, layering flavors and textures that harmonize beautifully—fresh and rich feta, tangy olives, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic herbs all enhanced by a drizzle of honey and a splash of olive oil.

8 ounces block feta cheese: The star ingredient that melts to a creamy, tangy base.
1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives (drained and halved): Adds a deep, salty bite with an authentic Mediterranean flair.
1/2 cup pitted green olives (drained and halved): Offers a milder briny contrast to the Kalamata olives.
1 cup grape tomatoes: Bursting with sweetness and juiciness to balance the saltiness of the cheese and olives.
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil: Elevates the richness and helps meld all the flavors during baking.
1 Tablespoon honey: Provides a subtle floral sweetness that makes this dip unforgettable.
3 garlic cloves (minced): Injects a pungent aroma and depth of flavor.
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic Mediterranean herb that brightens the dish.
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a gentle earthiness to complement the other herbs.
1/2 teaspoon zaatar: Brings a unique, slightly tangy spice blend essential for authenticity.
Pinch red pepper flakes: Introduces a hint of warmth without overwhelming the flavors.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste): Balances and enhances every component.
Fresh herbs (cilantro, parsley): For a bright, fresh garnish that lifts the entire dish.
Drizzle of honey: Optional finishing touch for an extra layer of sweetness.
Pita or pita puffs: The perfect vehicle to scoop up this luscious dip.

How to Make Mediterranean Baked Feta Dip Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is just right for melting the feta cheese gently while roasting the tomatoes and olives to perfection without drying them out.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Find a small baking dish and place your block of feta cheese smack dab in the center. Using a single block rather than crumbled feta ensures a luxuriously creamy texture once baked.

Step 3: Add Olives and Tomatoes

Scatter the halved Kalamata and green olives around the cheese in the dish, along with the grape tomatoes. The olives offer saltiness and texture, while the tomatoes soften and release their juices as they roast.

Step 4: Whisk the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, honey, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, zaatar, and red pepper flakes. Season this fragrant mixture with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This marinade is the flavor bomb that brings everything together.

Step 5: Drizzle and Bake

Pour the olive oil mixture evenly over the feta and the surrounding veggies and olives, coating them generously. Slide the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the feta is soft and just golden on top, and the tomatoes have burst, creating pockets of sweet, roasted goodness.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

When out of the oven, sprinkle fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley over the top and drizzle with additional honey if you want to play up the sweetness. Serve this warm Mediterranean Baked Feta Dip Recipe with pita bread or crispy pita puffs to scoop it up.

How to Serve Mediterranean Baked Feta Dip Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a white plate with a thick, square piece of grilled white cheese at the center. The cheese has a golden-brown crust on top and sides, with some herbs visible on the surface. On top of the cheese, there are slices of red roasted tomatoes and small dark purple-black roasted olives. Green basil leaves are placed on the cheese for garnish. Around the cheese, the plate is filled with more black olives and roasted vegetables in yellow oil. A drop of golden liquid is falling from a glass container onto the cheese. The background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an eye-catching, flavorful finish, fresh chopped parsley or cilantro is ideal. They add bright notes that cut through the richness of the baked cheese, and a drizzle of honey adds a touch of elegant sweetness every time.

Side Dishes

This dip pairs wonderfully with crunchy pita chips or soft, warm pita bread. You can also serve it alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a more complete Mediterranean-inspired spread.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to elevate the presentation, try serving the dip in a rustic terracotta dish surrounded by skewers of grilled veggies or warm halloumi cheese. You can also spoon it onto individual toast rounds or use it as a topping for baked potatoes for a fun twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Mediterranean Baked Feta Dip Recipe can be transferred to an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to intensify, making it just as delicious the next day.

Freezing

While freezing is possible, the texture of tomatoes may change upon thawing. If you want to freeze this dip, place it in a freezer-safe container for up to one month and thaw slowly in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the dip gently in a low oven (around 300°F) or microwave until warm and gooey again. Stir before serving to reincorporate the olive oil and honey mixture for a perfectly luscious dip experience.

FAQs

Can I use crumbled feta instead of a block for this Mediterranean Baked Feta Dip Recipe?

While you can use crumbled feta, the block melts more evenly and creates a creamier texture that is signature to this recipe. Crumbled feta may dry out or become grainy when baked.

What can I substitute for zaatar if I don’t have it?

Za’atar has a unique blend of thyme, sesame, and sumac, but you can substitute it with a mix of dried thyme, sesame seeds, and a little lemon zest to mimic the flavor profile.

Is this dip spicy?

This recipe includes a pinch of red pepper flakes, giving it a very mild warmth. You can adjust the amount or omit it entirely if you prefer a milder dip.

Can I prepare this Mediterranean Baked Feta Dip Recipe vegan?

Traditional feta is made from sheep’s milk, so it’s not vegan. However, there are plant-based feta alternatives that you can try baking with similar results.

What’s the best way to serve the dip for a party?

Serve this dip warm in a pretty serving dish accompanied by a colorful platter of pita bread, fresh veggies, and crackers to let guests help themselves effortlessly.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Mediterranean Baked Feta Dip Recipe, it’s hard not to fall in love. It’s simple yet sophisticated, comforting yet bright, and so brilliantly versatile for any occasion. Next time you want to impress without stress, this dip will be your go-to favorite that’s sure to earn rave reviews every single time.