Description
This Albanian Baked Feta recipe features a succulent block of feta cheese baked with fresh tomatoes, bell peppers, red onions, and aromatic herbs. Wrapped in parchment or foil to retain moisture and flavor, the dish is perfectly tender and infused with garlic and oregano, making it a delicious and easy appetizer that pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or pita.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese and Vegetables
- 1 block (about 7 oz) feta cheese
- 1 medium tomato, sliced
- 1 small green bell pepper, sliced into rings
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
Seasonings
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Other
- Parchment paper or foil for wrapping
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s at the perfect temperature for baking the feta and vegetables evenly.
- Prepare Feta and Vegetables: Place the block of feta cheese in the center of a large sheet of parchment paper or foil. Arrange the sliced tomato, green bell pepper rings, and thinly sliced red onion on top of the feta.
- Add Seasonings: Sprinkle the minced garlic, dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes if using, salt, and black pepper evenly over the vegetables. Drizzle the olive oil over the entire assembly to enhance the flavor and promote a beautiful bake.
- Wrap into a Packet: Carefully fold the parchment paper or foil over the feta and vegetables to create a sealed packet. This steaming method helps retain moisture and intensifies flavors during baking.
- Bake: Place the packet on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until the feta softens and the vegetables become tender and slightly roasted.
- Serve and Garnish: Carefully open the packet to avoid steam burns and transfer the baked feta and vegetables onto a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm with crusty bread or pita for dipping and scooping.
Notes
- For added richness and a touch of sweetness, drizzle honey over the feta and vegetables before sealing the packet and baking.
- To serve individual portions, prepare small foil packets for each serving; this makes for easy presentation and cleanup.
