A vibrant, savory appetizer featuring herb-marinated feta surrounded by briny olives, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, zesty lemon, and crisp crackers. This elegant mezze platter is a celebration of Mediterranean flavors—perfect for entertaining, snacking, or pairing with wine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Elegant Yet Effortless: Visually stunning and ready in under 30 minutes.
• Bold Mediterranean Flavors: Combines salty, sweet, tangy, and herbal notes in perfect balance.
• Great for Entertaining: A crowd-pleasing platter ideal for gatherings, wine nights, or dinner parties.
• Versatile Pairings: Delicious with bread, crackers, or alongside other mezze.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Feta can be marinated hours in advance to deepen flavor.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 block feta cheese (about 200g)
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil), drained
• 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives
• 1/2 cup green olives (Castelvetrano or Manzanilla)
• 1/2 lemon, thinly sliced
• Sea salt and black pepper to taste
• Assorted crackers or toasted bread, for serving

Directions

1. Place the block of feta cheese on a serving platter.
2. Drizzle the olive oil over the feta and sprinkle with dried oregano, lemon zest, chili flakes (if using), and black pepper.
3. Allow the feta to marinate at room temperature for 15–30 minutes to develop full flavor.
4. Arrange the sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, green olives, and lemon slices around the feta.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a pinch of flaky sea salt.
6. Serve with crackers, toasted bread, or warm pita.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4 to 6 as an appetizer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Marinating Time: 15–30 minutes
• Total Time: 25–40 minutes

Variations

• Add Roasted Garlic: Mix whole roasted garlic cloves into the platter for added richness.
• Include Fresh Herbs: Add thyme, rosemary, or basil alongside parsley.
• Spiced Oil Variation: Infuse the olive oil with smoked paprika or cumin for a deeper profile.
• Make it a Full Mezze: Include hummus, tzatziki, grape leaves, or grilled vegetables.
• Feta Cubes: Cut the feta into bite-sized cubes before marinating for easier sharing.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Marinated Feta: Can be stored separately in olive oil and herbs in a sealed jar for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: Not necessary, as this dish is best served at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use crumbled feta?

Whole feta or a thick block is ideal for marinating and presentation. Crumbled feta will absorb too much oil and break down.

How long can the feta marinate?

It can be marinated for up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the fridge and bring to room temperature before serving.

What are the best olives to use?

A mix of Kalamata and Castelvetrano olives offers both briny and buttery flavors. Use what you enjoy.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?

Sun-dried tomatoes provide a chewy, concentrated flavor, but cherry tomatoes can be used for a fresh alternative.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the platter is naturally gluten-free. Serve with gluten-free crackers or bread if needed.

Can I make this a meal?

Yes, serve the marinated feta over grains like couscous or quinoa, or pair with a green salad for a light lunch.

What kind of bread pairs best?

Toasted baguette slices, pita wedges, or whole grain crackers complement the flavors well.

Can I add nuts?

Yes, toasted almonds, pistachios, or pine nuts can add crunch and richness.

Is this dish vegan?

No, feta is a dairy product. For a vegan version, substitute with marinated plant-based feta alternatives.

What wine pairs well with this platter?

Dry white wines (like Sauvignon Blanc) or light reds (like Pinot Noir) work beautifully with the salty and herbal flavors.

Conclusion

The Mediterranean Marinated Feta Platter is a simple yet elegant appetizer that brings together the bold and sunny flavors of the Mediterranean coast. With minimal effort, it creates a centerpiece-worthy dish perfect for sharing, entertaining, or savoring on a quiet evening with wine and bread. Whether part of a larger mezze spread or enjoyed on its own, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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