Go Back

Rustic Marinated Feta and Olive Spread

A luxurious and rustic appetizer featuring crumbled feta cheese marinated in herb-infused olive oil with chili flakes, garlic, and rosemary, topped with green olives. Perfect for spreading on crusty bread.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cheese Base
  • 8 oz block feta cheese drained and crumbled
  • 2 oz cream cheese optional, for softer texture
Herb Marinade
  • 0.75 cup extra virgin olive oil high quality
  • 2 cloves garlic smashed
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary finely chopped
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 lemon zest only
Toppings
  • 0.5 cup green olives pitted
  • 1 pinch sea salt for garnish

Equipment

  • Glass Jar (Mason or Weck)
  • Small saucepan
  • Chopping Knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Combine olive oil, garlic, red pepper flakes, chopped rosemary, and oregano in a small saucepan.
  2. Warm over low heat for 5 minutes to infuse flavors (do not boil). Remove from heat and let cool completely.
  3. Crumble the feta cheese into bite-sized chunks. (Optional: mix with cream cheese if a smoother spread is desired).
  4. Layer the cheese into a clean glass jar, pouring the cooled herb oil over the layers as you go.
  5. Top with green olives and lemon zest. Ensure contents are submerged in oil.
  6. Seal and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to let flavors meld. Bring to room temperature 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. The olive oil will solidify when cold; bringing it to room temperature is essential for serving.