Description
Herb Marinated Feta is a simple and delicious Mediterranean-style appetizer made by infusing creamy feta cheese with fresh herbs, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, and extra virgin olive oil. This marinated cheese adds bold flavor to salads, pastas, and grilled dishes, and also serves as a flavorful standalone snack or appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz feta cheese block: provides the creamy, tangy base for the marinade
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes: adds a touch of heat
- 3 sprigs fresh rosemary: offers a deep, earthy aroma
- 3 sprigs fresh sage: brings a peppery and savory note
- 3 sprigs fresh oregano: contributes a bold Mediterranean flavor
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest: adds brightness and freshness
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil: acts as the carrier and infuser of flavors
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt: enhances the cheese’s natural taste
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: provides a mild spice
Instructions
- Pat the feta cheese dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Season the block on both sides with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Cut the feta into 3/4-inch cubes for even marinating and layering.
- Place a layer of the seasoned feta cubes into the bottom of a clean mason jar.
- Add a few sprigs of fresh herbs (rosemary, sage, oregano) and some lemon zest on top of the cheese.
- Repeat the layers of cheese, herbs, and lemon zest until the jar is nearly full.
- Pour in the olive oil to cover the final layer completely.
- Seal the jar and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2–3 hours or overnight for best flavor.
- Use within 4–5 days and serve cold or at room temperature as desired.
Notes
- Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor infusion.
- Ensure the feta is fully submerged in oil to preserve freshness.
- The leftover oil can be reused as a salad dressing or bread dip.
- Experiment with other herbs like thyme or basil for different flavor profiles.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook, Marinated
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 oz (approx. 2–3 cubes)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg