A Taste of the Mediterranean in Every Bite
If you’re looking for a quick, elegant, and flavorful appetizer, this Marinated Feta & Olive Appetizer delivers the essence of Mediterranean cuisine in a simple dish. Creamy feta is combined with briny olives, fresh herbs, and aromatic garlic, all dressed in a luxurious extra virgin olive oil. This appetizer pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or can be added to a charcuterie board for a burst of vibrant flavors. The blend of fresh and dried herbs with rich olive oil brings out the best in every bite, making it perfect for any gathering.
Instructions
Prepare all the ingredients
Start by cutting the feta cheese into bite-sized cubes. Drain the olives and set them aside.
Mince the fresh thyme and parsley, and grate the garlic. These fresh ingredients will give your appetizer a burst of aromatic flavor.
In a mixing bowl, add the feta cubes, drained olives, minced thyme, minced parsley, and grated garlic. Gently toss everything together to ensure the feta and olives are well-coated with the herbs and garlic.
Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried rosemary, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. This combination of dried herbs adds depth to the flavor profile.
Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil over the mixture. The olive oil is key to creating the rich, luxurious marinade that will elevate the flavors of the feta and olives.
Gently toss everything together until the feta and olives are well-coated with the herbs and olive oil.
Let the dish sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors. This rest time helps the feta absorb the herby, garlicky marinade, creating a more flavorful experience.
Serve the marinated feta and olive mixture as an appetizer or as part of a Mediterranean platter. It pairs wonderfully with warm crusty bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
Mediterranean Feta & Olive Bites
Ingredients
- 200 g Feta Cheese, cut into cubes
- 200 g Olives
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley
- 1 garlic clove, grated
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- salt to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Cut the feta cheese into bite-sized cubes and drain the olives. Mince the fresh thyme and parsley, and grate the garlic.
- In a mixing bowl, add the feta cubes, drained olives, minced thyme, minced parsley, and grated garlic.
- Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried rosemary, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil over the mixture.
- Gently toss everything together until the feta and olives are well-coated with the herbs and olive oil.
- Let the dish sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors, then serve as an appetizer or as part of a Mediterranean platter.
Tips for Success
- Use High-Quality Olive Oil: The olive oil is a key ingredient in this dish, so be sure to use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Olives: Feel free to mix different types of olives for variety. Kalamata olives bring a tangy richness, while green olives add a firmer texture. You can even use a combination of both.
- Add a Zesty Twist: For an extra pop of flavor, add a small squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving. The acidity will balance the richness of the feta and olives.
- Make Ahead: This appetizer can be prepared ahead of time. Let the feta and olives marinate in the fridge for a few hours or even overnight for an even richer flavor.
- Herb Substitutions: If you don’t have fresh thyme and parsley on hand, you can use dried herbs instead, but fresh herbs provide a fresher and more vibrant flavor.
- Pairing Tip: Serve this dish alongside some grilled vegetables, cured meats, or hummus for a more substantial Mediterranean spread.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Quick & Easy: This appetizer comes together in just a few minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.
- Burst of Flavor: The creamy feta cheese, briny olives, and aromatic herbs combine to create a complex, flavorful dish that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
- Perfect for Entertaining: Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a formal dinner, this appetizer is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s also ideal for adding to a Mediterranean-inspired charcuterie board.
- Healthy & Light: Packed with healthy fats from the olive oil and olives, this dish is a light yet satisfying appetizer. It’s a great choice for those seeking a healthier option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the types of olives or herbs used to suit your preferences, making this recipe versatile for different tastes.
