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
- 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.
- Quick garlic option: If short on time, mince one small garlic clove finely and stir it directly into the olive oil instead of infusing.
- Prepare the feta: Cut the feta cheese into bite-sized cubes approximately 1cm (1/3 inch) each for easy serving and marinating.
- 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.
- Add the infused oil: Pour the garlic-infused olive oil over the feta and herbs, ensuring everything is well coated.
- 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.
