Description
This Green Peppercorn-Marinated Feta is a vibrant and flavorful appetizer featuring creamy feta cheese cubes soaked in a zesty marinade of extra-virgin olive oil, white wine vinegar, and briny green peppercorns. Enhanced with crushed red pepper and fresh thyme, this dish is perfect for serving alongside crackers or crostini, making it an elegant addition to any gathering or snack time.
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade
- 3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons drained green peppercorns in brine
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 3/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
- 8 small thyme sprigs
Cheese
- 1 (1-pound) block feta cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
Serving
- Crackers or crostini, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, white wine vinegar, drained green peppercorns, kosher salt, crushed red pepper, and thyme sprigs until well combined, creating a flavorful and aromatic marinade.
- Arrange the feta: Place the 1-inch cubes of feta cheese evenly in a 9-inch square baking dish to ensure each piece can soak up the marinade evenly.
- Marinate the feta: Pour the prepared marinade over the arranged feta cubes, making sure they are fully submerged or well coated. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate: Refrigerate the feta and marinade for at least 8 hours or overnight. During this time, gently stir the cheese cubes a few times to redistribute the marinade and enhance flavor absorption.
- Serve: Remove from the refrigerator and serve the marinated feta chilled or at room temperature with crackers or crostini, making it an ideal appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Marinate the feta for a minimum of 8 hours to allow the flavors to fully develop; overnight is preferred for best results.
- Use fresh thyme sprigs for a subtle herbal note, but rosemary or oregano can be delicious alternatives.
- Drain green peppercorns well before adding to avoid excess brine diluting the marinade.
- This marinated feta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Serve with a variety of crackers, toasted bread, or crostini to complement the rich and tangy flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup marinated feta
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
