If you love bold, fresh flavors with just the right kick, this Feta Marinated with Herbs and Chilli Recipe is an absolute must-try. Creamy, tangy feta cheese soaks up the vibrant notes of fresh herbs, fiery chilli, and fragrant garlic-infused olive oil, creating a dish that’s bursting with Mediterranean charm. Whether it’s a quick appetizer or a flavorful accompaniment, this easy-to-make recipe transforms simple ingredients into something irresistibly delicious and perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in balancing the sharpness of the feta, the heat from the chilli, and the aromatic punch from herbs and garlic.
- Feta cheese: Use a creamy type like Danish for the best texture and milky flavor.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Acts as the silky marinade medium and adds richness.
- Garlic cloves: Smash or mince to infuse the oil with its fragrant punch.
- Fresh herbs (parsley and thyme): Finely chopped for bright, herbaceous notes.
- Birds eye chilli: Finely chopped to add a lively, spicy kick.
- Lemon rind: Zested finely to brighten and balance the richness.
- Black pepper: A fresh grind to finish with a mild heat and depth.
How to Make Feta Marinated with Herbs and Chilli Recipe
Step 1: Infuse the Olive Oil with Garlic
Start by gently smashing the garlic cloves with the side of your knife to release their flavor and combine them with the extra virgin olive oil. For the best infusion, cover and refrigerate the oil for several hours or ideally overnight — this step is optional but elevates the dish wonderfully by adding a mellow garlicky depth.
Step 2: Quick Garlic Alternative
If you’re short on time, simply mince one small garlic clove and mix it directly into the olive oil. This shortcut still offers a fresh garlic flavor that blends perfectly with the other ingredients.
Step 3: Cube the Feta
Cut the feta cheese into bite-sized cubes approximately 1cm or one-third of an inch. This size ensures each cube absorbs the marinade evenly and is perfect for popping straight into your mouth or scooping up with bread.
Step 4: Assemble the Ingredients
Place the cubed feta in a serving dish, then sprinkle the finely chopped herbs, birds eye chilli, lemon rind, and a generous grind of black pepper over the cheese. This layering makes sure every bite is vibrant and balanced.
Step 5: Pour Over the Infused Olive Oil
Finally, drizzle the garlic-infused olive oil over the feta and its garnishes. This step seals in all the flavors and creates a luscious marinade that’s ready to enjoy immediately or after resting for a bit to meld the flavors even further.
How to Serve Feta Marinated with Herbs and Chilli Recipe
Garnishes
For an inviting plate, consider topping the marinated feta with a few extra fresh herb sprigs or thin slices of fresh chilli for color and texture contrast. A light sprinkle of smoked paprika or crushed toasted pine nuts can also add a delightful twist.
Side Dishes
This dish shines served alongside warm, crusty bread for scooping or as part of a mezze spread with olives, roasted vegetables, and fresh salad. It also pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a zesty addition to simple sandwiches and wraps.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative by serving the feta in rustic terracotta dishes or small glass jars to showcase the colors. Layering it on a charcuterie board surrounded by nuts, honey, and dried fruits turns this humble recipe into an elegant appetizer that’s sure to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover marinated feta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day, and it should keep well for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Because feta’s texture can change upon freezing, it’s best to avoid freezing the marinated version. If you do freeze feta, use it later in cooked dishes where texture is less important.
Reheating
Since this is a cold dish, reheating is not typical or necessary. Simply bring any refrigerated leftovers to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture experience.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta?
Feta’s tangy and creamy profile is key here, but you can experiment with halloumi or goat cheese for a different texture and flavor. Just note that the marinade works best with a crumbly, briny cheese.
How spicy is this recipe?
The heat level depends on the amount and type of chilli you use. Birds eye chillies pack a punch but feel free to adjust to your preferred spice tolerance or substitute with milder red chillies.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! Marinating for a few hours or overnight intensifies the flavors beautifully, making this recipe a great make-ahead option for parties or busy weeknights.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Since feta cheese is dairy-based, this recipe is not vegan. However, you could try using a firm tofu marinated similarly for a plant-based alternative.
What’s the best bread to serve with this marinated feta?
A crusty rustic bread like sourdough or a warm baguette works wonderfully. Their chewy texture complements the creaminess of the feta and soaks up the flavorful oil marinade perfectly.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you fall in love with this vibrant and simple Feta Marinated with Herbs and Chilli Recipe just as I have. Its bright, spicy, and creamy flavors make it a standout addition to any meal or gathering. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be reaching for this recipe over and over – so go ahead, bring a little sunshine to your table today!
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Feta Marinated with Herbs and Chilli Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes (plus optional overnight marination)
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Feta Marinated with Herbs and Chilli recipe features creamy Danish-style feta cheese infused with fragrant garlic olive oil, fresh herbs, and a touch of chilli heat. Perfect as a flavorful appetizer or accompaniment, the marinated feta is easy to prepare and ideal for serving with crusty bread.
Ingredients
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 leaves recommended)
- 1 birds eye chilli, finely chopped (or any fresh red chilli of choice)
- 1/4 tsp lemon rind, finely grated
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Infuse Olive Oil with Garlic: Use the side of your knife to smash the garlic cloves and combine them with the olive oil. Cover and refrigerate to let the flavors infuse for a few hours or preferably overnight for best taste.
- Quick Garlic Substitute: If short on time, mince one small garlic clove finely and stir directly into the olive oil as a quicker alternative.
- Prepare Feta: Cut the feta cheese into bite-sized cubes, about 1 cm (1/3 inch) each, ensuring even pieces for better flavor absorption.
- Assemble: Place the cubed feta into a serving dish. Scatter the finely chopped herbs, fresh chilli, grated lemon rind, and a grind of black pepper evenly over the cheese.
- Marinate: Pour the garlic-infused olive oil over the feta and herbs mixture. Allow to marinate briefly or serve immediately with crusty bread.
Notes
- For a richer texture, use Danish or creamy-type feta as they absorb flavors better.
- Overnight marination enhances the garlic flavor in the olive oil for a more intense infusion.
- Adjust the amount of chilli according to your preferred spice level.
- Serve with fresh crusty bread or crackers for a perfect appetizer.
