This Mediterranean Marinated Feta with Olives is made with creamy feta cheese, green olives, fresh herbs, garlic, and extra virgin olive oil. It’s an easy, flavorful appetizer perfect for charcuterie boards, parties, or snacking.
Mediterranean Marinated Feta with Olives
Whenever I need a simple appetizer that looks impressive but takes almost no effort, I make this Mediterranean Marinated Feta with Olives. I usually prepare it a day ahead because the flavors only get better as everything marinates together. Honestly, opening the jar after it’s had time to soak in the garlic, herbs, olive oil, and spices is one of my favorite kitchen moments. It’s fresh, savory, and perfect for sharing with friends—or keeping all to yourself!
Whether you’re building a charcuterie board or looking for a quick snack, this marinated feta is guaranteed to become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces block feta cheese, cut into cubes
- 1 cup green olives (pitted)
- 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried)
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1½ cups extra virgin olive oil (or enough to cover the ingredients)
Step-by-Step Method
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Cut the feta into bite-sized cubes.
Drain the olives and pat them dry.
Slice the garlic and chop the fresh herbs.
Step 2: Layer the Jar
In a clean glass jar, alternate layers of feta cubes, olives, garlic, parsley, oregano, thyme, and lemon zest.
Sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes and black pepper as you layer.
Step 3: Add the Olive Oil
Pour the extra virgin olive oil over the ingredients until everything is completely covered.
Add the lemon juice and gently tap the jar to remove any air bubbles.
Seal the jar tightly.
Step 4: Marinate
Refrigerate for at least 24 hours, although 2–3 days will develop even more flavor.
Before serving, let the jar sit at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes, as olive oil naturally solidifies when chilled.
Step 5: Serve
Stir gently before serving.
Enjoy with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
Cooking Tips
- Use a good-quality block feta packed in brine for the creamiest texture.
- Extra virgin olive oil provides the richest flavor.
- Fresh herbs give the best taste, but dried herbs work well too.
- Always keep the feta completely submerged in olive oil.
- Let the marinated feta come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
- Save the leftover infused olive oil to use in salad dressings or as a bread dip.
Serving Suggestions
This Mediterranean Marinated Feta pairs perfectly with:
- Crusty artisan bread
- Toasted baguette slices
- Crackers
- Pita chips
- Fresh cucumber slices
- Cherry tomatoes
- Roasted vegetables
- Charcuterie boards
- Grilled chicken or fish
- Mixed green salads
Nutrition Information (Approx. Per Serving)
- Calories: 240
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 420mg
Nutrition values are approximate and will vary depending on the amount of olive oil served.
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Marinated Feta with Olives is one of those recipes that’s almost effortless but tastes like something from a gourmet deli. I honestly love making it ahead because the flavors become richer every day. It’s creamy, herby, slightly tangy, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself to a flavorful snack, this easy recipe is sure to impress.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does marinated feta last?
Stored in a sealed jar in the refrigerator with the feta fully covered in olive oil, it will stay fresh for up to 1 week.
2. Can I use black olives instead of green olives?
Absolutely! Kalamata, black olives, or a combination of different olives all work wonderfully.
3. Why did my olive oil become cloudy or solid?
This is completely normal. Extra virgin olive oil naturally thickens and solidifies in the refrigerator. Let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before serving.
4. Can I add other herbs or spices?
Yes! Rosemary, basil, dill, fennel seeds, coriander seeds, or smoked paprika are all delicious additions.
5. What can I do with the leftover olive oil?
Don’t throw it away! The infused olive oil is packed with flavor and is perfect for salad dressings, pasta, roasted vegetables, marinades, or dipping fresh bread.
