Baked Feta with Sesame & Honey Recipe

Introduction

Baked feta with sesame and honey is a simple yet elegant appetizer that combines creamy, salty cheese with sweet honey and nutty sesame seeds. Perfect for sharing, it pairs wonderfully with warm pitta bread for dipping. This dish brings a delightful balance of flavors in just a few steps.

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

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan)/gas mark 6. Place the toasted sesame seeds in a shallow dish.
2. Step 2: Brush the block of feta all over with 2 tablespoons of honey. Press it carefully into the sesame seeds, turning it to coat all sides well with the seeds.
3. Step 3: Place the sesame-crusted feta into 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.
4. Step 4: Bake the feta for 15-20 minutes, until it becomes soft and slightly golden around the edges.
5. Step 5: Remove from the oven and drizzle with a little extra honey. Serve immediately with warmed pitta breads on the side for dipping.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh oregano or substitute with thyme for a different herbal note.
• Try adding a pinch of chili flakes for a subtle heat contrast.
• For a nuttier flavor, toast the sesame seeds lightly before coating the feta.

Storage

Store any leftover baked feta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave until warmed through. The sesame crust is best enjoyed fresh to stay crisp, but the flavor remains delicious after reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Feta works best due to its firm texture and salty flavor, but you can experiment with halloumi or goat cheese, keeping in mind the baking time might need adjustment.

Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, baked feta with sesame and honey is vegetarian-friendly as long as the feta is made with vegetarian rennet.

Baked Feta with Sesame & Honey Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 138 reviews

This delicious baked feta recipe combines creamy feta cheese coated in toasted sesame seeds and drizzled with honey for a perfect balance of salty and sweet flavors. It’s enhanced with fresh oregano and olive oil, baked until soft and gooey, and served with warm pitta breads for an irresistible appetizer or snack.

• Author: Bella
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 2–3 as an appetizer 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Feta and Topping

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

To Serve

• Warmed pitta breads

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Heat your oven to 200C (180C fan) or gas mark 6 to ensure it’s ready for baking the feta.
2. Toast and prepare the sesame seeds: Toast 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds in a dry pan or in the oven until golden and fragrant, then place them in a shallow dish for coating.
3. Coat the feta in honey and sesame: Brush the entire block of feta all over with 2 tablespoons of honey. Carefully press the honey-coated feta into the toasted sesame seeds, turning it so the seeds stick well and form a crust all around the cheese.
4. Arrange feta for baking: Place the coated feta block in a baking dish that fits it snugly. Sprinkle the roughly chopped oregano and a pinch of sea salt over the top, then drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake until soft: Bake the feta for 15-20 minutes until it becomes soft and creamy but still holds its shape.
6. Serve with extra honey and pitta: Once baked, drizzle some extra honey over the top and serve immediately alongside warmed pitta breads for dipping and scooping up the flavorful baked feta.

Notes

• Use good quality feta for the best flavor and texture.
• Warm the pitta breads just before serving to keep them soft and perfect for dipping.
• Feel free to substitute oregano with thyme or rosemary for a different herb aroma.
• Toast sesame seeds carefully to avoid burning and maintain their nutty flavor.
• This dish pairs well with fresh salads or as part of a mezze platter.

Keywords: baked feta, sesame seeds, honey, Mediterranean appetizer, feta cheese recipe, easy baked cheese, pitta breads, savory and sweet