Name: Baked Feta with Sesame and Honey Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-490150H25M41S
Total time: PT-490150H25M41S
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 200g block feta; 1 tbsp sesame seeds, toasted; 2 tbsp honey, plus extra to serve; 1 tsp roughly chopped oregano; Olive oil, for drizzling; Warmed pitta breads

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Introduction

This baked feta with sesame and honey is a deliciously simple dish that combines creamy, salty cheese with a sweet and nutty crust. Perfect as a warm appetizer or a shareable snack, it pairs wonderfully with warm pitta bread.

The image shows a single thick white block of baked cheese in a round brown clay dish. The cheese is covered with golden toasted sesame seeds scattered all over the top, with small bits of dark green herbs spread unevenly on the surface. The cheese looks soft and slightly browned at the edges, sitting in a reddish oily liquid inside the dish. A woman's hand holds the edge of the dish from the top right corner. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface next to a white cloth with a blue pattern and a clear glass of water. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 tbsp sesame seeds, toasted
200g block feta
2 tbsp honey, plus extra to serve
1 tsp roughly chopped oregano
Olive oil, for drizzling
Warmed pitta breads, to serve

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan)/gas mark 6. Place the toasted sesame seeds in a shallow dish.
Step 2: Brush the block of feta all over with 2 tablespoons of honey. Carefully press the honey-coated feta into the sesame seeds, turning it to ensure the cheese is evenly coated.
Step 3: Place the coated feta in a baking dish that fits it snugly. Sprinkle the chopped oregano and a pinch of sea salt over the top, then drizzle with olive oil.
Step 4: Bake for 15-20 minutes until the feta is soft and slightly golden on top.
Step 5: Remove from the oven, drizzle with a little extra honey, and serve immediately with warmed pitta breads on the side.

Tips & Variations

Toast the sesame seeds lightly to enhance their nutty flavor before coating the feta.
Try adding a sprinkle of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Serve with fresh vegetables like cucumber or cherry tomatoes for added freshness.
Use fresh oregano or substitute with thyme or rosemary for a different herb aroma.

Storage

Store any leftover baked feta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at a low temperature to avoid drying out the cheese, or enjoy cold as a salad topping.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a deep, round, brown clay pot containing a large block of white cheese covered with small toasted sesame seeds and bits of dark green herbs evenly spread across the surface. The cheese sits in a thin, orange, oily sauce filling the bottom of the pot. The pot is placed on a white marbled surface, next to some white flatbread and a clear glass of water. A woman's hand is gently reaching from the top left corner toward the pot photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Feta works best for this recipe because of its firm texture and salty flavor that complements the honey and sesame. However, a firm goat cheese could be a suitable alternative.

How do I know when the feta is done baking?

The feta is ready when it becomes soft and slightly golden on top. It should be warm and creamy inside but still hold its shape.