Marinated Feta Cheese

About This Recipe

Marinated feta cheese is a preserved dairy product where feta is submerged in oil with herbs and spices. Originating from Mediterranean cuisine, this preparation method enhances flavor and extends shelf life. The dish requires no cooking and serves as an appetizer, salad topping, or sandwich ingredient.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Requires only 10 minutes of active preparation
• Uses minimal kitchen equipment
• Customizable with preferred herbs and spices
• Enhances plain feta with complex flavors
• Suitable for make-ahead meal preparation

Ingredients

• 8 oz (225g) block feta cheese
• 1 cup (240ml) extra virgin olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1 tsp (2g) crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 tsp (3g) whole black peppercorns
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 3 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1 tsp (1g) dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• Zest of 1 lemon (removed in strips with peeler)

Step by Step Instructions

1. Cut feta into ½-inch cubes. Pat dry with paper towels.
2. Combine garlic, red pepper flakes, peppercorns, rosemary, thyme, oregano, bay leaf, and lemon zest in a bowl.
3. Place feta cubes in a sterilized 16 oz glass jar with airtight lid.
4. Add herb-spice mixture to the jar, distributing evenly around feta.
5. Pour olive oil into the jar until feta is completely submerged.
6. Seal jar tightly and gently rotate to distribute ingredients.
7. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving. Gently invert jar twice daily during marination.

FAQ

Q: Can I use crumbled feta?
A: Block feta is recommended. Crumbled feta absorbs too much oil and becomes mushy.

Q: How long does marinated feta last?
A: Properly stored, it remains safe for consumption for up to 2 weeks.

Q: Can I reuse the oil?
A: The infused oil may be reused for salad dressings or cooking within 3 days.

You Must Know