Name: Baked Feta with Sesame & Honey Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-490150H27M55S
Total time: PT-490150H27M55S
Cuisine: Mediterranean
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 pita breads

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Introduction

This baked feta with sesame and honey is a delightful combination of creamy, salty, and sweet flavors. It’s an easy, impressive dish that makes a perfect appetizer or snack, especially when served with warm pitta breads.

A deep terracotta dish holds a single thick block of white cheese, covered in a layer of golden toasted sesame seeds mixed with small dark green herb leaves scattered on top. The cheese sits in a shallow pool of red-orange oil that fills the bottom of the dish. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface with a folded white cloth with a grey pattern nearby, and part of a white flatbread is visible on the side. 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: Heat 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 so that it is well coated with seeds on all sides.
Step 3: Place the coated feta in a baking dish that fits it snugly. Sprinkle the roughly chopped oregano and a pinch of sea salt over the top.
Step 4: Drizzle some olive oil over the feta. Bake in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes, until the feta is soft and slightly golden.
Step 5: Remove from the oven and drizzle a little extra honey over the top. Serve immediately with warmed pitta breads on the side for dipping.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh oregano or substitute with dried thyme for a different herbal note.
Try adding crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
If you don’t have pitta breads, serve with crusty bread or vegetable sticks.
Toast the sesame seeds carefully to avoid burning and bring out their full nutty flavor.

Storage

Store any leftover baked feta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a warm oven or microwave just until warmed through to maintain the soft texture. Note that the sesame coating may soften after storage.

How to Serve

The image shows a round red clay bowl holding a square block of grilled cheese topped with a mix of sesame seeds and small green herb leaves. The cheese has a golden-brown crust with some darker grill marks. Around the cheese inside the bowl is a layer of reddish oily sauce with scattered sesame seeds floating in it. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with a glass of water and folded white cloth napkin next to it. 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 instead of feta?

Feta’s firm texture and salty flavor make it ideal for this recipe. Soft cheeses like goat cheese won’t hold their shape as well when baked. Halloumi can be used as a firmer alternative but will have a different taste.

How do I prevent the feta from drying out when baking?

Coating the feta with honey and sesame seeds helps create a flavorful crust, and drizzling olive oil adds moisture. Avoid overbaking by checking after 15 minutes to ensure it’s soft but not completely melted.