Feta Marinated with Herbs and Chilli Recipe

Introduction

This feta marinated with herbs and chilli is a vibrant and flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. Creamy feta cheese is enhanced by fresh herbs, a touch of heat, and fragrant olive oil, creating a simple yet impressive dish to enjoy with crusty bread.

Ingredients

• 8 oz (250 g) feta cheese, preferably Danish or another creamy type
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, peeled
• 2 tbsp finely chopped herbs (such as parsley and thyme leaves)
• 1 bird’s eye chilli, finely chopped (or any fresh red chilli of choice)
• 1/4 tsp finely grated lemon rind
• Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Infuse the olive oil with garlic by smashing the garlic cloves with the side of a knife and combining them with the olive oil. Cover and refrigerate for a few hours or preferably overnight for the best flavor.
2. Step 2: If you are short on time, mince one small garlic clove and stir it directly into the olive oil.
3. Step 3: Cut the feta cheese into bite-sized cubes, about 1 cm (1/3 inch) each.
4. Step 4: Place the feta cubes into a serving dish and scatter over the chopped herbs, chilli, grated lemon rind, and a fresh grind of black pepper.
5. Step 5: Pour the garlic-infused olive oil over the feta and serve with crusty bread for dipping.

Tips & Variations

• For milder heat, reduce the amount of chilli or substitute with a milder pepper like red bell pepper.
• Try mixing in other fresh herbs like oregano or basil for a different flavor profile.
• If you can’t find creamy Danish feta, choose one labeled “creamier” or soak crumbly feta in water for 10 minutes to soften before marinating.

Storage

Store the marinated feta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor. Leftover feta can be kept in the olive oil to preserve moisture and taste.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use pre-minced garlic instead of fresh?

Fresh garlic is best for infusing the oil and providing a bright flavor, but in a pinch, you can use a small amount of pre-minced garlic. Just be mindful of its stronger taste and adjust accordingly.

Is it necessary to refrigerate the oil with garlic overnight?

While not strictly necessary, refrigerating garlic in oil overnight enhances the flavor dramatically. If you’re short on time, adding minced garlic directly to the oil still works well for a quicker version.

Feta Marinated with Herbs and Chilli Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 80 reviews

This Feta Marinated with Herbs and Chilli recipe offers a creamy, flavorful appetizer with a delightful blend of garlic-infused olive oil, fresh herbs, spicy chilli, and lemon zest. Perfect as a savory dip or partner for crusty bread, this marinated feta is easy to prepare and serves as a sophisticated addition to any snack or antipasto platter.

• Author: Tara
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes plus marination time
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cheese

• 8 oz / 250 g feta cheese, preferably Danish or another creamy type

Marinade

• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, peeled
• 2 tbsp fresh herbs, finely chopped (parsley and thyme recommended)
• 1 bird’s eye chilli, finely chopped (or any fresh red chilli of choice)
• 1/4 tsp lemon rind, finely grated
• Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Infuse Olive Oil with Garlic: Smash the garlic cloves using the side of your knife and combine with the olive oil. Cover and refrigerate the mixture for several hours or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to meld. This step is optional but enhances the garlic flavor.
2. Prepare Quick Garlic Oil (if short on time): If you don’t have time to infuse the oil, mince one small garlic clove finely and stir it directly into the olive oil.
3. Cut the Feta: Slice the feta cheese into bite-sized cubes, approximately 1 cm or 1/3 inch in size, to ensure even marination and easy serving.
4. Assemble the Marinade: Place the cubed feta into a serving dish. Evenly scatter the finely chopped herbs, bird’s eye chilli, grated lemon rind, and a grind of black pepper over the cheese.
5. Pour Olive Oil: Pour the prepared olive oil over the feta and herb mixture, ensuring the cheese is well coated. Serve the marinated feta with crusty bread for dipping and enjoy immediately or allow to marinate further for enhanced flavor.

Notes

• For best flavor, allow the feta to marinate for several hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
• The type of feta cheese affects creaminess; Danish or other creamy varieties work best.
• You can adjust the amount and type of chilli based on your preferred spice level.
• The garlic infusion is optional but adds a richer flavor to the oil.
• Serve with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables as a delicious appetizer.

Keywords: feta, marinated feta, herb marinated cheese, appetizer, Mediterranean recipe, spicy feta, easy appetizer, garlic infused olive oil