Baked Feta, Tomato & Kalamata Olive Dip
Baked Feta, Tomato & Kalamata Olive Dip is a easy Greek recipe that serves 4. 246 calories per serving. Recipe by Keto The Easy Recipes on YouTube.
Prep: 12 min | Cook: 15 min | Total: 40 min
Cost: $9.40 total, $2.35 per serving
Ingredients
- 200 g Feta Cheese (block, full‑fat, crumbled later)
- 250 g Cherry Tomatoes (halved)
- 75 g Kalamata Olives (pitted and sliced)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp Dried Italian Herbs (blend of oregano, basil, thyme)
- 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley (chopped)
- 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil (good quality, for mixing and drizzling)
- 120 ml Pasta Sauce (plain marinara or tomato basil sauce)
Instructions
Preheat Oven
Set the oven to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat while you prepare the dip.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: 400°F
Prepare the Tomato‑Olive Mix
In a mixing bowl combine the pasta sauce, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced Kalamata olives, minced garlic, dried Italian herbs, chopped parsley, and olive oil. Stir until evenly coated.
Time: PT5M
Assemble in Baking Dish
Transfer the tomato‑olive mixture to the baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer. Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the mixture.
Time: PT2M
Bake the Dip
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the feta is soft and the tomatoes are slightly blistered.
Time: PT15M
Temperature: 400°F
Serve
Remove the dish from the oven, let it rest for 5 minutes, then serve warm with crusty bread, keto crackers, or raw vegetable sticks.
Time: PT5M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 246
- Protein
- 18g
- Carbohydrates
- 26g
- Fat
- 78g
- Fiber
- 4g
Dietary info: Keto, Vegetarian, Gluten‑Free
Allergens: Dairy
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Feta Cheese: Goat cheese, Halloumi (for a firmer texture)
- Instead of Cherry Tomatoes: Grape tomatoes, Diced canned tomatoes (drained)
- Instead of Kalamata Olives: Black olives, Greek green olives
- Instead of Garlic: Garlic powder (1/4 tsp)
- Instead of Dried Italian Herbs: Herbes de Provence, Italian seasoning
- Instead of Fresh Parsley: Fresh basil, Cilantro
- Instead of Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Avocado oil, Grapeseed oil
- Instead of Pasta Sauce: Crushed tomatoes with herbs, Passata
Equipment Needed
- Baking Dish
- Mixing Bowl
- Chef's Knife
- Cutting Board
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Preheating the oven to the correct temperature.
- Evenly mixing the tomato‑olive sauce so flavors distribute.
- Placing the feta block in the center to ensure even melting.
- Baking for the right amount of time to achieve a creamy texture without over‑cooking.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use a high‑quality, creamy feta for the best melt and flavor.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice after baking for a bright finish.
- For extra heat, stir in a pinch of red‑pepper flakes with the herbs.
Troubleshooting
Feta remains firm and does not melt.
Bake an additional 3‑5 minutes, covering the dish loosely with foil to prevent over‑browning.
The dip is too watery.
Drain excess liquid from the olives and pat the cherry tomatoes dry before mixing.
Tomatoes burn before the feta softens.
Lower oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and extend baking time by 5 minutes.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Freezer: Not recommended; texture of feta changes when frozen.
Room temperature: Can sit at room temperature for up to 1 hour after baking.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Assemble the dip up to the baking step and refrigerate for up to 24 hours; bake when ready to serve.
- The dip can be reheated in a microwave for 30‑45 seconds, but oven reheating preserves texture better.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of baked feta dip in Greek cuisine?
Baked feta with tomatoes and olives is a modern twist on traditional Greek mezze, where feta is often served drizzled with olive oil and herbs. The baked version became popular in the 2010s as a warm, shareable appetizer that highlights the Mediterranean love of simple, high‑quality ingredients.
What are the traditional regional variations of feta tomato olive dip in Greece?
In the islands of Crete, the dip may include roasted red peppers and a splash of raki, while in the mainland it often features oregano and a dash of lemon juice. Some regions add capers or use a blend of feta and ricotta for a creamier texture.
How is baked feta dip traditionally served in Greek households?
It is typically served warm with crusty rustic bread, pita, or raw vegetables, and accompanied by a glass of ouzo or red wine. The dip is placed in the center of the table for communal scooping.
What occasions or celebrations is baked feta dip associated with in Greek culture?
The dip is popular at family gatherings, summer barbecues, and festive occasions such as name‑days and Easter brunches, where mezze platters are a staple.
What other Greek dishes pair well with baked feta cherry tomato & olive dip?
Pair it with Greek salad, grilled halloumi, roasted lamb kebabs, or a side of tzatziki. A glass of crisp white wine or retsina complements the salty, tangy flavors.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making baked feta cherry tomato & olive dip?
Common errors include over‑baking, which dries out the tomatoes, and using low‑fat feta that won’t melt properly. Also, adding too much liquid from olives can make the dip watery.
Why does this recipe use a block of feta instead of crumbled feta?
A solid block melts evenly and creates a creamy core that blends with the sauce, whereas crumbled feta would stay grainy and not achieve the same silky texture.
Can I make baked feta dip ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can assemble the dip and refrigerate it uncovered for up to 24 hours. Bake it when ready to serve, or reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
What texture and appearance should I look for when the dip is done cooking?
The feta should be soft and slightly golden on top, and the cherry tomatoes should be blistered but not burnt. The sauce will be glossy and the olives will have released some oil.
What does the YouTube channel Keto The Easy Recipes specialize in?
The YouTube channel Keto The Easy Recipes focuses on low‑carb, keto‑friendly meals that are quick, simple, and use everyday ingredients, often highlighting comfort foods with a keto twist.
How does the YouTube channel Keto The Easy Recipes' approach to Mediterranean cooking differ from other keto channels?
Keto The Easy Recipes emphasizes minimal prep and pantry‑friendly ingredients while preserving authentic Mediterranean flavors, whereas many keto channels rely heavily on heavy cream or cheese substitutes.
Last updated: August 28, 2026
