Ah, feta cheese – the salty, tangy star of the Mediterranean diet. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping main course or a simple yet impressive appetizer, feta’s creamy richness and versatility make it a perfect addition to any meal. In this article, we’ll dive into 20 mouthwatering recipes that showcase feta’s incredible range – from classic Greek salads to innovative twists on pasta dishes, skewers, and even breakfast toast! From the simplest snack to the most indulgent dinner party, these creamy feta cheese recipes are sure to delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more. Let’s get started!
Greek Salad with Feta and Olives
Experience the flavors of Greece with this simple and refreshing salad, perfect for a light meal or as a side dish. This recipe combines crisp vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and savory olives in a harmonious blend.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, diced tomato, and cucumber slices.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar and olive oil.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Top the salad with Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in 10-15 minutes.
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and savory recipe. This Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken is a classic Greek-inspired dish that combines the richness of feta cheese, the earthiness of spinach, and the juiciness of chicken breast.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, and garlic.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the spinach-feta mixture.
4. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
5. Drizzle olive oil on a baking sheet and place stuffed chicken breasts.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Feta and Herb Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the earthiness of mushrooms with the tanginess of feta and freshness of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together feta cheese, parsley, dill, and garlic.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth. Fill each cap with the feta mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed mushrooms and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Watermelon and Feta Summer Salad
Beat the heat with this refreshing summer salad that combines sweet watermelon, tangy feta cheese, and crunchy mint. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish for your next BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups diced watermelon (seedless)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced watermelon and crumbled feta cheese.
2. Sprinkle the chopped mint leaves over the top of the salad.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and white wine vinegar over the salad, tossing gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Baked Feta with Honey and Thyme
Elevate your snacking game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of feta cheese, the sweetness of honey, and the earthiness of thyme. Perfect for a quick appetizer or as a topping for crackers or fruit.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of feta cheese (about 6 oz)
– 2 tbsp of pure honey
– 1 tsp of dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the feta cheese on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle the honey over the feta, followed by sprinkling the thyme evenly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is slightly softened and caramelized.
7. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Feta and Roasted Red Pepper Dip
A creamy and flavorful dip that combines the tanginess of feta cheese with the sweetness of roasted red peppers. Perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz crumbled feta cheese
– 2 large red bell peppers, roasted and chopped
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the red bell peppers for about 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Remove skin, seeds, and membranes from the roasted peppers.
4. In a medium bowl, combine feta cheese, yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Stir in the chopped roasted red peppers.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Serve with pita chips, crackers, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes (including roasting time)
Feta and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
This recipe combines the tanginess of feta cheese with the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, perfect for a quick and flavorful pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Stir in the crumbled feta cheese until melted and well combined with the tomato mixture.
5. Toss cooked pasta with the tomato-feta mixture, season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Halloumi and Feta Skewers
A classic Mediterranean-inspired appetizer or snack that combines the creaminess of halloumi and feta cheese with a smoky grilled flavor. Perfect for outdoor gatherings or as a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Fresh parsley or oregano leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread a piece of halloumi and a piece of feta onto each skewer.
3. Brush the cheese with olive oil, then sprinkle with minced garlic.
4. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the cheese is golden brown and slightly charred.
5. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley or oregano leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Feta and Zucchini Fritters
These fritters are a perfect combination of crunchy exterior and soft, cheesy interior. The addition of zucchini adds moisture and a hint of freshness to the dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup grated feta cheese
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1 egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour and egg. Add grated feta, zucchini, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
2. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the batter into the oil, about the size of a golf ball.
4. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mediterranean Feta and Chickpea Bowl
A flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with creamy feta cheese, savory chickpeas, and a medley of Mediterranean vegetables. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chickpeas, feta cheese, parsley, red onion, and cucumber.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the chickpea mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Feta and Caramelized Onion Tart
This savory tart combines the sweetness of caramelized onions with the tanginess of feta cheese, perfect for a snack or light meal. The caramelized onions add a deep flavor that complements the creamy feta perfectly.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions and garlic over medium heat for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized.
4. Brush pastry with beaten egg and top with caramelized onions, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Sprinkle feta cheese over the onions.
6. Fold edges of pastry up over filling to form a crust.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Feta
Brighten up your mealtime with this zesty and flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp, tangy lemon, and savory feta cheese. This 15-minute recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Sprinkle feta cheese over the shrimp and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Feta and Herb Stuffed Peppers
Add a burst of flavor to your dinner table with these colorful peppers stuffed with creamy feta, fragrant herbs, and aromatic spices. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix feta cheese, parsley, olive oil, garlic, and oregano.
3. Stuff each pepper with the feta mixture, filling to the top.
4. Place peppers in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
5. Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Feta and Avocado Breakfast Toast
Start your day with a flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional toast. This recipe combines the creaminess of avocado with the tanginess of feta, all on top of crispy whole grain bread.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices whole grain bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the avocado.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, with optional lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Feta and Avocado Breakfast Toast!
Roasted Beet and Feta Salad
This sweet and savory salad showcases the natural sweetness of roasted beets paired with the tanginess of crumbled feta cheese, all tied together with a light vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Let beets cool, then peel and slice into wedges.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, salt, and pepper.
5. Add sliced beets, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley to the bowl; toss to combine.
6. Drizzle apple cider vinegar and honey over the salad, tossing gently to coat.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Feta and Olive Tapenade Crostini
Elevate your cocktail party with these flavorful Feta and Olive Tapenade Crostini!
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1 block of feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup of olive tapenade
– 1/4 cup of pitted green olives, sliced
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Bake for 5-7 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. Spread a small amount of tapenade on each crostini, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese and a few slices of green olives.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Feta and Spinach Filo Pie
This classic Greek-inspired pie is a staple of Mediterranean cuisine, with its crispy filo crust, tangy feta cheese, and nutritious spinach. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, this recipe is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of filo dough (usually found in the frozen section)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw filo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, combine feta, spinach, cheddar, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Layer filo dough in a pie dish, brushing each layer with olive oil.
5. Fill the final layer of filo with the cheese mixture.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Feta and Walnut Stuffed Dates
Elevate your snack game with this unique combination of creamy feta, crunchy walnuts, and sweet dates. Perfect for parties or a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 pitted Medjool dates
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Stuff each date with about 1-2 teaspoons of crumbled feta and a pinch of chopped walnuts.
3. Drizzle the tops with honey and sprinkle with salt to taste.
4. Place the stuffed dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is slightly melted and caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Feta and Cucumber Tzatziki
A classic Greek condiment, Tzatziki is a cooling and tangy accompaniment to grilled meats, vegetables, or pita bread. This simple recipe combines crumbled feta cheese with yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill for a flavorful and refreshing dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and grated
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the grated cucumber, yogurt, feta cheese, garlic, and dill.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None
Feta and Tomato Bruschetta
Experience the perfect blend of tangy feta cheese and sweet tomatoes on toasted bread with this simple yet flavorful bruschetta recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 baguette slices
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture onto each baguette slice and toast for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Top each toasted bread slice with a halved cherry tomato, crumbled feta cheese, and a sprinkle of chopped basil (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the creamy, tangy goodness of feta cheese with these 20 mouthwatering recipes! From classic Greek salad and stuffed chicken to sweet treats like baked feta with honey and thyme, there’s something for every occasion. Try making feta-stuffed mushrooms or roasted red pepper dip for a savory snack, or go all out with feta-topped pasta or tart. Whether you’re in the mood for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, these creamy feta recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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