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Feta Marinated with Herbs and Chilli Recipe

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  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 5 minutes (plus optional marinating time overnight)
  • 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 gently infused with a fragrant blend of garlic, fresh herbs, fiery bird’s eye chilli, and zesty lemon rind, all soaked in rich extra virgin olive oil. It’s a quick and vibrant appetizer that’s perfect for serving alongside crusty bread or as part of a mezze platter, delivering a perfect balance of spice, freshness, and creaminess.


Ingredients

Scale

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 mixed fresh herbs, finely chopped (parsley and thyme recommended)
  • 1 bird’s eye chilli, finely chopped (or any fresh red chilli of choice)
  • 1/4 tsp lemon rind, finely grated
  • Black pepper, to taste


Instructions

  1. Infuse olive oil with garlic: Using the side of a knife, smash the peeled garlic cloves and combine them with the extra virgin olive oil. Cover the mixture and refrigerate it, allowing the flavors to develop for a few hours or preferably overnight.
  2. Quick garlic option: If short on time, mince one small garlic clove finely and stir it directly into the olive oil instead of infusing.
  3. Prepare the feta: Cut the feta cheese into bite-sized cubes approximately 1cm (1/3 inch) each for easy serving and marinating.
  4. Assemble the dish: Place the cubed feta into a serving dish. Scatter over the finely chopped herbs, chopped bird’s eye chilli, grated lemon rind, and add a grind of fresh black pepper.
  5. Add the infused oil: Pour the garlic-infused olive oil over the feta and herbs, ensuring everything is well coated.
  6. Serve: Present the marinated feta immediately alongside crusty bread to enjoy as a flavorful starter or snack.

Notes

  • Use a creamy Danish feta for best texture; avoid crumbly or overly salty varieties.
  • The garlic infusion is optional but enhances flavor dramatically if time allows.
  • Adjust chilli quantity depending on your heat preference.
  • This dish can be prepared a few hours ahead and refrigerated; bring to room temperature before serving.