Baked Feta Cheese in Foil

Baked Feta Cheese in Foil: A Quick and Tasty Delicacy

Get ready to discover a simple yet incredibly delicious recipe that will delight your taste buds! This baked feta cheese in foil is perfect for a light meal, especially after hearty holiday meals. With a preparation time of just 5 minutes and a baking time of 15 minutes, you'll have a savory appetizer that will impress everyone.

Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 500 g feta cheese
- 1-2 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced
- Spices (to taste):
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 dried chili pepper, crushed (optional)
- 3-4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh dill leaves for garnish (optional)

Necessary utensils

- Aluminum foil
- Baking tray
- Knife and cutting board
- Spoon for oil
- Spatula or fork for spreading the cheese (optional)

Nutritional Information (per serving)

- Calories: approximately 250 kcal
- Fat: 20 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g

Tips and Practical Advice

1. Choosing the feta cheese: Opt for quality feta cheese, preferably made from goat or sheep milk, for a richer and creamier taste. If you prefer a lower-calorie option, you can choose light feta.

2. The spices: Personalize the recipe by adding your favorite spices. A combination of Mediterranean herbs, such as basil or thyme, will add a flavorful touch. Don’t hesitate to experiment!

3. The garlic: If you prefer a more subtle garlic flavor, you can leave it out or cut it into larger pieces. The garlic will infuse and give a delicate taste to the cheese during baking.

4. Serving: This baked feta cheese is perfect to be served with slices of crispy baguette. You can also serve it alongside olives, cherry tomatoes, or fresh vegetables for a delightful appetizer platter.

Preparation Process

1. Preparing the cheese: Start by unrolling a piece of aluminum foil large enough to wrap the feta cheese. Place the feta cheese in the center of the foil.

2. Adding flavors: Sprinkle the slices of garlic over the feta cheese. Then, add your favorite spices: oregano, freshly ground pepper, paprika, and chili pepper if you like a bit of heat. All these flavors will blend wonderfully during baking.

3. Olive oil: Drizzle the feta cheese with olive oil, making sure it is well coated. The oil will help caramelize the cheese and enhance the flavors.

4. Wrapping: Carefully wrap the foil to form a tight packet that will retain moisture and flavors during baking.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the cheese packet in a large baking tray and bake for 15 minutes. Anticipate the aromas filling the kitchen!

6. Serving: Once the baking time is up, carefully remove the packet from the oven (it will be hot!). Unwrap the foil cautiously, being aware of the steam that will escape. Serve the cheese warm, spread on slices of crispy baguette, and garnish with fresh dill leaves if desired.

Possible Variations

- Feta cheese with herbs: You can add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a fresher taste.
- With vegetables: Add slices of bell pepper or cherry tomatoes in the foil packet for a delicious side dish.
- Vegan option: Substitute the feta cheese with a plant-based alternative for a vegan option.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with other types of cheese, such as goat cheese or mozzarella, although the result will be different.

2. How can I adapt the recipe for a larger meal?
You can multiply the ingredients and bake multiple feta cheeses simultaneously, ensuring each is well wrapped in foil.

3. What other sides pair well with baked feta cheese?
This cheese pairs perfectly with olives, roasted nuts, or fresh vegetable salads.

Conclusion

This baked feta cheese in foil recipe is ideal for a quick and tasty appetizer, perfect for moments when you want to impress without too much effort. The simple yet rich flavors combine to create an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you serve it at a dinner with friends or as a personal treat, baked feta cheese in foil will surely become a favorite recipe. So, unleash your imagination in the kitchen and enjoy this delicacy!