Ingredients
Tomato and Oil Mixture
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 5 large garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 3 pints (about 6 cups) ripe cherry tomatoes or cocktail tomatoes, halved or quartered if large
- Kosher salt, to taste
Cheese and Garnish
- 2 blocks (7 ounces each) feta cheese
- Fresh slivered basil leaves (10-12 leaves)
To Serve
- Sliced bread, baguette or crostini
Instructions
- Preheat the Broiler: Position the oven rack in the top slot and preheat your broiler or grill on high to ensure it reaches the right temperature for broiling the feta and tomatoes.
- Simmer Garlic and Tomatoes: In a large skillet over low heat, combine olive oil, finely chopped garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook gently for about 2 minutes to infuse the oil and mellow the garlic’s flavor. Add the halved or quartered cherry tomatoes along with a pinch or two of kosher salt. Simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
- Transfer to Casserole or Skillet: Pour the tomato and oil mixture into a casserole dish. Use a spoon to clear a space in the center of the mixture and place the two blocks of feta cheese there. If using an oven-safe skillet like cast iron, you can directly add the feta blocks into the skillet with the tomatoes, skipping the casserole dish.
- Broil the Dish: Place the pan under the preheated broiler for 3 to 4 minutes. Watch carefully as the feta softens and turns a golden brown in places and some of the tomatoes blister. This step intensifies the flavors and adds a lovely texture contrast.
- Serve Warm: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh slivered basil. Serve immediately while hot, placing the dish on a trivet on the table alongside fresh sliced baguette or crostini. Provide a serving spoon and small appetizer plates or shallow bowls for guests to help themselves.
Notes
- Use firm blocks of feta cheese rather than crumbled for easier broiling and serving.
- For a gluten-free option, serve with gluten-free bread or crackers instead of baguette or crostini.
- You can adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes for desired heat level.
- This dish is best enjoyed fresh from the oven, as the broiled feta softens and blends beautifully with the tomatoes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Broiling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
