Get ready to transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched shores of Greece with this incredibly simple yet mind-blowing Baked Feta Cheese and Mediterranean Veggies dish! Imagine a bubbling, creamy block of feta nestled among perfectly roasted, caramelized vegetables, releasing an aroma that will make your kitchen smell like a quaint Mediterranean taverna. This one-pan wonder is not just a recipe; it's a culinary escape that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 block feta cheese
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature will help roast the vegetables and create a golden, slightly crispy texture.
- Prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Wash and slice the bell pepper and zucchini into even, bite-sized pieces to ensure uniform cooking. Cut cherry tomatoes in half if they are large.
- Arrange the sliced vegetables on the baking sheet in a single layer, creating space between them to allow proper roasting.
- Place the entire block of feta cheese in the center of the vegetable arrangement.
- Drizzle olive oil evenly over the vegetables and feta cheese. Sprinkle dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper across the entire dish.
- Gently toss the vegetables to ensure they are coated with oil and seasonings, keeping the feta cheese in its original position.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized, and the feta cheese is soft and warm.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld and cheese to cool slightly.
- Serve hot directly from the baking sheet, using a spatula to portion out the roasted vegetables and creamy feta cheese. Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley.
Tips
- Use high-quality, block feta cheese for the best melting and flavor experience.
- Cut vegetables into similar-sized pieces to ensure even roasting.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet - give vegetables space to caramelize, not steam.
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like thyme.
- Use a good quality olive oil, as it significantly impacts the final taste.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve immediately with crusty bread to soak up the delicious olive oil and cheese.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 50mg
