Description
Albanian Baked Feta is a deliciously simple and flavorful appetizer that features a block of creamy feta cheese baked with fresh tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and garlic. Infused with oregano and a touch of red pepper flakes, this warm and savory dish is perfect served with crusty bread or pita for a traditional Albanian meze experience or a light vegetarian meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese
- 1 block (7 oz) feta cheese, drained and patted dry
Vegetables
- 1 medium tomato, chopped
- 1 small green bell pepper, sliced into rings
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Oil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the feta and vegetables evenly.
- Prepare the baking dish: Place the drained and dried block of feta cheese in the center of a small baking dish or an oven-safe skillet, ensuring it has enough room for the vegetables around it.
- Add vegetables and seasonings: Scatter the chopped tomatoes, sliced green bell pepper rings, thinly sliced red onion, and minced garlic evenly around and on top of the cheese. Drizzle everything with olive oil, then sprinkle with dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Bake: Place the dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the feta has softened and developed lightly golden edges.
- Optional broil for color: For extra color and a slightly crisp top, broil the dish for an additional 2 to 3 minutes at the end of baking, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm with crusty bread or pita for dipping and soaking up the tasty juices.
Notes
- For a spicier version, substitute with hot green peppers or increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes.
- Adding olives or roasted red peppers can provide extra depth of flavor.
- This dish is traditionally served as a meze (appetizer) but also works perfectly as a light vegetarian main course.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Albanian
