Ingredients
Scale
- 1 (8-ounce) block Feta cheese (preferably Greek, packed in brine)
- 1/4 cup Honey
- 1 teaspoon Crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves Garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon Fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper
- Crusty bread or pita triangles, for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a small, oven-safe baking dish or an 8-inch cast-iron skillet.
- Step 2: Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the prepared dish. Drizzle the olive oil over the top of the feta and into the dish around the sides.
- Step 3: Arrange the sliced garlic and fresh thyme leaves over the feta block, then sprinkle generously with the freshly ground black pepper.
- Step 4: In a small separate bowl, stir together the honey and the crushed red pepper flakes until the mixture is uniform. Pour this hot honey mixture evenly over the top of the feta.
- Step 5: Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the feta is soft, heated through, and the honey mixture around the edges is bubbling vigorously.
- Step 6: Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for 2 minutes. Serve immediately, encouraging guests to scoop the warm feta and honey mixture onto slices of crusty bread or pita.
Notes
- If you have leftovers, refrigerate the cooled feta and honey mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 days, acknowledging the cheese will firm up considerably once chilled.
- Bring the feta back to life by reheating it gently in a 350°F oven for about 8 minutes until the cheese softens and the honey mixture re-liquifies; avoid the microwave, which can make the feta rubbery.
- While crusty bread is mandatory, try serving this warm, savory-sweet appetizer with thin, crisp green apple slices or pear wedges for a refreshing contrast to the richness.
- For the most aromatic result, gently crush the thyme and garlic slightly before arranging them on the feta block; this releases more essential oils into the olive oil as it bakes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American