Start your day with a burst of Mediterranean sunshine through this delightful baked feta eggs dish. Imagine creamy, slightly tangy feta bubbling gently alongside blistered cherry tomatoes, briny olives, and perfectly baked eggs — a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that’s both simple and elegant.
This savory breakfast or brunch treat is not only visually appealing but also rich in Mediterranean flair, combining wholesome ingredients and fragrant herbs that awaken your senses. Whether shared with loved ones or enjoyed solo, it’s a comforting and impressive dish that elevates eggs to new heights.
- Unique blend of creamy feta and baked eggs delivers a rich, luscious texture.
- Easy to prepare with fresh, flavorful Mediterranean ingredients for a wholesome meal.
- Versatile for breakfast, brunch, or even a light lunch paired with crusty bread.
- Customizable with various vegetables and herbs to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
- Feta cheese (200–250 g block): A firm, tangy Greek cheese central to the dish which softens beautifully when baked.
- Large eggs (2–3): Fresh eggs cracked on top to add richness and protein with softly cooked yolks.
- Cherry tomatoes (1 cup, halved): Sweet and juicy tomatoes that blister in the oven, adding vibrant color and acidity.
- Small red onion (½, thinly sliced): Adds a mild, slightly sweet sharpness balancing the cheese and tomatoes.
- Kalamata or other olives (¼ cup): Briny, meaty olives infuse the dish with depth and Mediterranean authenticity.
- Olive oil (2–3 tbsp): Good quality extra virgin olive oil for drizzling, enhancing flavor and richness.
- Dried oregano (1 tsp): Earthy herb that perfectly complements feta and gives the dish a classic Mediterranean aroma.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Adds gentle heat and balances the creamy and savory elements.
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional): Bright, fresh herbs for garnish that refresh the palate and elevate presentation.
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
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Set your oven to 190 °C (approximately 375 °F) to ensure an even, moderate heat. This allows the feta to soften gently without drying out while the tomatoes blister beautifully.
- Arrange Ingredients in Baking Dish
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Place the block of feta centrally in a small oven-safe baking dish. Artistically arrange the halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and Kalamata olives around the cheese. This setup ensures each element bakes evenly, mingling their flavors during cooking.
- Season and Drizzle Olive Oil
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Generously drizzle the feta and surrounding vegetables with olive oil. Sprinkle dried oregano and freshly ground black pepper over the top. The oil aids roasting and herb infusion, while seasoning enhances the overall taste complexity.
- Bake Until Feta Softens and Vegetables Blister
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Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. During this time, the feta becomes creamy yet retains its shape, and the cherry tomatoes soften and blister, releasing sweet juices that meld with the feta.
- Add Eggs Around the Feta
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Carefully remove the hot dish from the oven and crack the eggs gently around the feta and vegetables, avoiding breaking the yolks. Return the dish to the oven. This layering ensures the eggs cook in the flavorful juices, adding lusciousness to every bite.
- Bake Until Eggs Set
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Bake for an additional 8 to 10 minutes until the egg whites are firm but yolks remain slightly runny. For firmer yolks, extend baking by a few minutes. Monitor closely to get your preferred egg consistency.
- Garnish and Serve Warm
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Finish by sprinkling fresh basil or parsley over the dish for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately with warm crusty bread or soft pita, perfect for dipping into the creamy feta and runny yolks.
- Choosing a firm block of feta helps it maintain structure while baking, preventing it from melting too thin.
- Adjust herb and seasoning amounts to your taste; feel free to experiment with fresh thyme or rosemary for a different twist.
- Cooking times may vary slightly depending on oven efficiency and baking dish size.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Gently reheat in the oven or microwave, but note the eggs may become firmer, affecting texture.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted Mediterranean-style potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal. A side of olives or hummus works wonderfully as well.
- Use a ceramic or glass baking dish to ensure even heat distribution and prevent burning.
- Room temperature feta and eggs allow for more consistent cooking times and textures.
- Try adding a touch of lemon zest or chili flakes before serving to enhance brightness and add subtle heat.
FAQs
- Can I use other cheeses instead of feta?
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While feta’s tangy, crumbly texture is ideal, halloumi or fresh goat cheese can be used, though flavor and melt characteristics will differ.
- How can I make this dish vegan?
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Substitute the feta with a vegan cheese alternative and replace eggs with tofu slices or chickpea flour-based egg replacer for similar textures.
- What is the best bread for serving?
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A crusty baguette, pita bread, or sourdough are excellent choices to scoop up the creamy feta and runny eggs.
- Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
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Prepare the veggie and cheese base a few hours ahead and refrigerate. Add eggs and finish baking just before serving for best texture.
- How do I get the eggs perfectly cooked?
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Keep a close eye during the second baking stage. Remove the dish when whites are firm but yolks still jiggle slightly for a soft center.
- Are there other vegetables recommended?
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Spinach, bell peppers, or artichoke hearts add great flavor and texture, increasing the dish’s nutritional profile.
- Is this recipe gluten-free?
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Yes, the main dish is naturally gluten-free; just serve with gluten-free bread if needed.
Mediterranean Baked Feta Eggs
Equipment
- 1 small baking dish for baking the feta and eggs
- 1 oven preheated to 375 °F
Ingredients
- 7 to 9 oz firm block of feta cheese
- 2 to 3 large eggs
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- ½ small red onion thinly sliced
- ¼ cup Kalamata olives or other varieties
- 2 to 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375 °F (190 °C).
- Place the block of feta cheese in the center of a small baking dish.
- Arrange the cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, and olives around the feta.
- Drizzle olive oil over the cheese and vegetables, then sprinkle dried oregano and black pepper evenly.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the feta softens and tomatoes start to blister.
- Remove from oven and gently crack eggs around the feta and vegetables.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 8 to 10 minutes, until egg whites are set but yolks remain slightly runny, or longer if preferred.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve warm with crusty bread or pita.
Notes
- Use firm feta to keep shape during baking.
- Try adding spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lemon zest for brightness.
- Serve with green salad or roasted potatoes for a full meal.
