Aromatic Grilled Feta

Creamy, tangy, and delightfully different, Grilled Feta cheese is the appetizer you never knew you were missing! It doesn’t take much room on the grill, so when you’ve got a bit of space, turn your meal into something extra special with this Grilled Feta recipe!

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Transform your grilling experience with a dish that’s both stunning and remarkably simple: Grilled Feta. This easy appetizer recipe elevates the humble block of feta into a warm, gooey, and irresistibly flavorful delight. Topped generously with fresh herbs and a luxurious drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, it’s a quick fix that promises to impress everyone at your table. The beauty lies in its versatility—you can mix and match your favorite herbs, but don’t skip them entirely, as they are crucial in transforming the salty tang of feta into a vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired masterpiece. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking for an exciting new side dish, grilled feta is a game-changer that adds a touch of gourmet elegance to any spread. Prepare to fall in love with its rich textures and unforgettable taste, making it a staple for your summer entertaining.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Grilled Feta

Step aside baked feta, and prepare for a flavor revolution! Grilling feta introduces a wonderful smoky depth and a beautifully textured exterior that simply can’t be achieved otherwise. Imagine soft, warm, and slightly caramelized feta, oozing with flavor, perfectly complemented by crispy grilled bread—it’s so good, you might just forget about the BBQ meats and feast solely on this Mediterranean-inspired gem! Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to create this show-stopping appetizer:

• Cast Iron Pan or Grill-Safe Pan: This is a non-negotiable item for successful grilled feta. Cast iron is ideal because it retains and distributes heat exceptionally well, ensuring even cooking and a beautifully melted interior without the feta sticking directly to the grill grates. Small cast iron pans are particularly charming as they double as elegant serving dishes, keeping the feta warm at the table. If you don’t have cast iron, ensure your pan is explicitly labeled as grill-safe and can withstand high temperatures. Avoid using aluminum foil alone, as it won’t impart the same smoky flavor or provide the same firm, slightly crispy structure.
• Quality Feta Cheese: The star of our show, so choose wisely! Opt for a 6-8 ounce block of solid, full-fat feta. The “block” form is crucial here, as crumbled feta will simply melt through the grill grates and become a mess. Full-fat feta also melts into a creamier, more luxurious texture compared to its low-fat counterparts, which tend to become rubbery or dry when heated. Whether you choose a round or square block is purely a matter of preference, but always ensure it’s firm enough to handle before grilling. Look for authentic feta cheese, often packed in brine, for the freshest flavor and best texture.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO): Now is the time to reach for your best bottle! A high-quality extra virgin olive oil isn’t just a cooking medium here; it’s a flavor enhancer. It provides a rich, fruity counterpoint to the feta’s saltiness and helps create that beautiful, slightly crisp exterior while keeping the interior wonderfully moist and tender. A generous drizzle before grilling is essential for both flavor and texture.
• Assortment of Fresh Herbs: This is where you can truly personalize your grilled feta, infusing it with vibrant aromas and complex flavors. Fresh herbs are paramount for their bright, aromatic qualities. Excellent choices include fresh thyme (earthy and subtle), parsley (bright and clean), basil (sweet and aromatic), oregano (peppery and robust), and even a hint of rosemary (use sparingly, as its flavor can be quite strong). A combination of two or three often works best, adding layers of complexity. Finely chop them just before serving to maximize their fresh impact.
• Red Pepper Flakes: For a delightful kick and a touch of warmth that awakens the palate. A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes adds that essential “oomph” that cuts through the richness of the feta, creating a balanced and exciting flavor profile. Adjust the amount to your preference; add more if you love a spicy bite, or just a tiny sprinkle for a subtle warmth.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper: A few generous grinds of fresh black pepper right after grilling provide a sharp, earthy finish that beautifully complements the other flavors. The aroma of freshly ground pepper is far superior to pre-ground varieties, adding a layer of freshness you won’t want to miss.
• Fresh Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon is the perfect bright finishing touch. Its vibrant acidity acts as a natural cleanser, balancing the saltiness and richness of the feta and enhancing all the fresh herb flavors. Serve lemon wedges alongside the dish, allowing guests to add a spritz to their liking, which truly brightens every bite.

Simple Steps to Make This Easy Grilled Feta Recipe

Creating this delectable grilled feta is surprisingly straightforward and requires minimal effort for maximum flavor payoff. Follow these simple instructions for a perfect result every time. For a full list of ingredients and precise measurements, please refer to the detailed recipe card at the bottom of this page.

1. Prepare Your Grill and Pan: Begin by heating your outdoor grill to a medium-high temperature, aiming for around 400°F (200°C). While the grill is heating, place your empty cast iron pan or any other designated grill-safe pan directly onto the grates to pre-heat it as well. This crucial step ensures the pan is hot enough to start cooking the feta immediately upon contact, reducing the overall grilling time and preventing the delicate cheese from sticking. A properly preheated pan will give you a beautifully golden, slightly crisp exterior on the feta.
2. Chop Your Fresh Herbs: While your grill and pan are heating up, take this opportune moment to finely chop all your chosen fresh herbs. Having them ready to go is key to a smooth and efficient cooking process. The vibrant flavors and aromatic qualities of fresh herbs are best preserved and released when added just after the feta comes off the grill, so having them prepped beforehand ensures they’re incorporated at their peak freshness and potency.
3. Prepare and Grill the Feta: Carefully place the block of feta cheese into the center of the piping hot cast iron pan. Drizzle a generous amount of high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the top of the feta. The oil will seep down the sides, helping to create a delicious, slightly fried exterior while keeping the interior wonderfully moist. Carefully transfer the pan onto the hot grill grates. Close the grill lid to trap the heat and allow the feta to grill for approximately 15 minutes. During this time, the feta will gradually soften and become wonderfully gooey in the center, developing a subtle smoky aroma and a lightly golden, slightly caramelized crust. Resist the urge to poke or move it too much during this stage, letting the grill work its magic.
4. Remove and Season: Once the feta is visibly soft and warm throughout, and perhaps showing a slight golden hue on its surface, carefully remove the hot pan from the grill using sturdy oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves. Immediately after removing it, sprinkle a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper and crushed red pepper flakes over the top to add a zesty kick. Then, lavishly scatter the fresh, finely chopped herbs over the warm feta. The residual heat from the feta and the pan will gently warm the herbs, releasing their fragrant essential oils and infusing the cheese with their vibrant flavors.
5. Serve Immediately: The absolute best way to enjoy grilled feta is while it’s still warm and gloriously gooey! Serve it directly in the cast iron pan you cooked it in (remember to warn guests that the pan is extremely hot and to use caution). Provide grilled crusty bread, your favorite crackers, or an assortment of fresh vegetables for dipping. Encourage everyone to dig in and savor the creamy, tangy, and smoky flavors right away. Don’t forget those fresh lemon wedges for an optional burst of refreshing acidity that beautifully cuts through the richness and brightens every bite!

Chef Jenn’s Expert Tips for Grilled Feta Success

Achieving the perfect grilled feta is simple when you know a few tricks. Here are Chef Jenn’s top tips to ensure your appetizer is nothing short of spectacular:

• Choose Full-Fat Feta for Creaminess: The type of feta you use profoundly impacts the final texture and flavor. Always opt for a good quality, full-fat block of feta cheese. Low-fat varieties contain less fat and more water, which prevents them from melting into that desirable creamy, gooey consistency that makes grilled feta so irresistible. Instead, low-fat feta tends to become rubbery, dry, and less flavorful when heated. Invest in quality feta, ideally authentic Greek feta packed in brine, for the best results in terms of texture and taste.
• Fresh Herbs are Best, But Dried Work in a Pinch: While fresh herbs offer unparalleled vibrancy, aroma, and visual appeal, dried herbs can be a suitable substitute if fresh ones aren’t available. If using dried herbs, remember that their flavor is more concentrated. As a general rule, use about one-third of the amount specified for fresh herbs. A high-quality Italian seasoning blend, which often contains dried oregano, basil, thyme, and sometimes rosemary, would be my top recommendation for a balanced flavor profile if you’re opting for dried varieties.
• Serve Grill-to-Table in the Same Dish: This is a crucial tip for maintaining the integrity, warmth, and beautiful presentation of your grilled feta. Once the feta is soft and warm from the grill, it becomes quite delicate and prone to breaking apart. Attempting to transfer it from the cast iron pan to another serving dish will almost certainly result in the feta crumbling or falling apart. Instead, use a cast iron pan (or any other oven-to-table/grill-safe dish) that is attractive enough to go straight from the grill to your table. Just be sure to place it on a heat-safe trivet or surface and clearly warn your guests about the hot dish!
• Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: While the cast iron pan containing the feta doesn’t take up much space, ensure there’s good airflow around it on the grill. This helps maintain consistent heat distribution, prevents hot spots, and allows for proper smoke infusion, contributing to that distinctive, delicious grilled flavor that we’re aiming for.
• Always Offer Lemon Wedges: Fresh lemon juice is a magical ingredient for feta. Its bright, zesty acidity beautifully cuts through the richness and saltiness of the cheese, enhancing all the fresh herb flavors and providing a refreshing contrast. Always have plenty of lemon wedges available for guests to squeeze over their individual portions; it truly elevates the entire dish.

What to Serve with Feta on the BBQ: Pairing Perfection

Grilled feta is an incredibly versatile appetizer that pairs beautifully with a wide array of accompaniments, making it a fantastic centerpiece for any gathering, from casual cookouts to sophisticated soirées. My absolute favorite “vessel” for this creamy feta party recipe is grilled crusty bread. The smoky char of the bread perfectly complements the warm, tangy cheese, creating an irresistible combination. I always make sure to have plenty on hand! You can grill the bread slices first and have them ready, as the feta itself cooks relatively quickly on the BBQ. Beyond bread, here are more delicious ideas to complete your grilled feta experience:

• Crusty Bread and Crostini: As mentioned, perfectly grilled crusty bread (like slices of baguette or ciabatta) is a must-have companion. You can also prepare toasted crostini for a more elegant, bite-sized presentation. Offer a small knife or spoon for spreading the soft, warm feta, or simply let guests scoop it directly onto their bread.
• Fresh Vegetables for Dipping: For a lighter, healthier option that provides a refreshing crunch, offer an assortment of fresh, crisp vegetables. Cucumber slices, colorful bell pepper strips (red, yellow, orange), sweet cherry tomatoes, and crunchy carrot sticks are all excellent choices for scooping up the creamy feta.
• Grilled Vegetables: Take full advantage of your hot grill and serve the feta alongside other tender-crisp grilled vegetables. Zucchini, eggplant slices, asparagus spears, red onion wedges, and cherry tomatoes all develop a delightful char and natural sweetness that exquisitely complements the salty feta. This combination can easily transform into a satisfying and wholesome vegetarian meal.
• Mediterranean Dips: Elevate the experience with classic Mediterranean dips. Serve this grilled cheese with a refreshing keto tzatziki sauce for even more vibrant flavor and coolness, or offer a bowl of creamy hummus or smoky baba ghanoush. These dips add layers of texture and taste that perfectly harmonize with the feta.
• Olives and Marinated Artichoke Hearts: A bowl of assorted Kalamata, green, and black olives, along with tender marinated artichoke hearts, provides another layer of Mediterranean flavor and texture. The briny, savory notes of the olives are a natural and classic match for the salty tang of feta.
• As Part of a Charcuterie Board: Once cooled slightly, you can slice or gently crumble grilled feta and add it to an elaborate charcuterie or cheese board. It retains its delightful smoky goodness, and the herbs pop, adding a unique, gourmet element to your spread of cured meats, various cheeses, fresh and dried fruits, and nuts.
• Green Salad Companion: Crumble cooled grilled feta over a fresh, vibrant green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The warm, smoky, and creamy notes of the feta will add incredible depth and interest to a simple salad, turning it into a memorable dish.
• Pasta Topping: While still warm, spoon generous dollops of grilled feta over a simple pasta dish tossed with olive oil, cherry tomatoes, and a handful of fresh basil. The melting feta creates an instant creamy sauce, adding an extraordinary flavor boost to your weeknight meal.

Creative Variations to Elevate Your Grilled Feta

While the classic grilled feta with fresh herbs and olive oil is undeniably delicious, this recipe is incredibly adaptable, inviting you to experiment with different flavor profiles and ingredients. Don’t be afraid to get creative! Here are some of my favorite ways to change up this feta recipe, allowing you to discover new culinary delights and keep your taste buds excited:

• Smoked Tomato & Feta Delight: For a deeper, richer, and intensely savory flavor, skip the fresh herbs and instead top the warm BBQ feta with beautifully sliced smoked tomatoes. The smoky sweetness of the tomatoes, concentrated and bursting with flavor, combined with the tangy, grilled feta creates an unforgettable appetizer that’s bursting with umami and a hint of summer garden freshness.
• Mediterranean Tapas Experience: Enhance the Mediterranean vibe by serving a vibrant variety of briny olives, roasted red peppers (jarred works great!), and even some tiny capers scattered generously around the grilled feta. This creates a visually stunning and delicious tapas-like presentation, encouraging guests to mix and match flavors and textures for an interactive dining experience. It’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
• Gourmet Crostini Toppers: For an elegant, easy-to-handle bite-sized appetizer, let the grilled feta cool slightly until it’s firm enough to handle, then slice or chunk it. Top crisp, homemade or store-bought crostini with these creamy feta pieces and add a small dollop of your favorite olive salad (tapenade), a vibrant green pesto, or even a sweet fig jam. This combination offers a delightful crunch with the creamy, smoky feta, marrying different textures and tastes.
• Vegetarian Main Course with Grilled Veggies: Transform this delectable appetizer into a substantial and wholesome vegetarian meal by serving the grilled feta alongside an assortment of hearty grilled vegetables. Think colorful bell peppers, tender zucchini and eggplant slices, sweet red onion wedges, and juicy cherry tomatoes, all lightly seasoned and grilled until tender-crisp with appealing char marks. The warm, soft feta melts beautifully over the medley of vegetables, creating a satisfying, healthy, and complete dinner.
• Sweet & Savory Honey Glaze: For a truly surprising and incredibly addictive twist, top the warm grilled feta cheese with a generous drizzle of high-quality, runny honey. The natural sweetness of the honey beautifully contrasts with the salty, tangy feta, creating an incredibly addictive sweet and savory combination. A sprinkle of chopped pistachios or walnuts can add a delightful crunch and extra visual appeal.
• Garlic and Chili Infusion: For a bolder, more pungent flavor, finely mince a clove or two of fresh garlic and mix it thoroughly with the extra virgin olive oil before drizzling it over the feta. You can also add extra red pepper flakes for an even spicier kick. The garlic will soften and mellow as it cooks, infusing the feta with its deeply aromatic essence.
• Sun-Dried Tomato & Oregano Variation: Replace fresh herbs with finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed and thoroughly drained) and a generous sprinkle of dried oregano. The concentrated, intensely sweet-tart flavor and chewy texture of sun-dried tomatoes offer a wonderful contrast that pairs exceptionally well with the salty feta, bringing a different kind of Mediterranean sunshine to your dish.
• Spicy Calabrian Chili Oil: For those who love a serious dose of heat and complex flavor, drizzle a bit of high-quality Calabrian chili oil over the grilled feta instead of plain olive oil. The fiery, rich flavor of the chili oil, often infused with garlic and other spices, provides an exciting and sophisticated contrast to the creamy cheese, leaving a memorable impression.

Frequently Asked Questions About Grilled Feta

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Visual Guide: Step-by-Step Process

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Grilled Feta with Herbs

This Grilled Feta recipe delivers a deliciously smoky, warm, and gooey appetizer, perfectly accented with fresh herbs. It’s an absolute must-try for any grilling enthusiast looking to add a vibrant Mediterranean touch to their menu.

Course Appetizers

Cuisine Mediterranean, American

Keyword appetizers, feta, feta recipes, grilled feta, keto snacks, party food, Mediterranean appetizer

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes minutes

Total Time 20 minutes minutes

Servings 4 servings

Calories 144kcal

Ingredients

• 6 ounces feta in a block or round
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/2 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves chopped
• 1/2 tablespoon fresh dill chopped
• 1/2 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
• 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions

• Preheat your grill to about 400°F (200°C) and place your cast iron pan on the grates to pre-heat as well. This will ensure efficient cooking of the feta.
• Finely chop all your desired fresh herbs, preparing them for the topping.
• Place the block of feta cheese into the center of the pre-heated cast iron pan and drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil. Place the pan on the grill, close the lid, and cook for approximately 15 minutes, or until the feta is soft and gooey.
• Carefully remove the pan from the grill. Immediately season the warm feta with freshly ground black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, and the prepared fresh herbs.
• Serve immediately in the same pan, encouraging everyone to enjoy it while it’s still warm and gloriously soft.

Notes

Chef Jenn’s Tips

• Use a good quality full-fat feta. Low-fat feta just won’t melt the same way, becoming less creamy and more rubbery.
• Fresh herbs are best for maximum flavor and aroma, but you can use dried in a pinch. An Italian seasoning blend is a good dried alternative.
• To prevent the feta from falling apart, serve it directly in the grill-safe pan you cooked it in. Do not attempt to transfer it to a new dish once it’s soft and warm.
• Remember to have fresh lemon wedges available for guests to squeeze over their portion; the acidity brightens the dish beautifully.

Nutrition

Serving: 1.5ounces | Calories: 144kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 38mg | Sodium: 475mg | Potassium: 35mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 267IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 214mg | Iron: 1mg

A Note on Nutritional Information

Nutritional information for this recipe is provided as a courtesy and is calculated based on available online ingredient information. It is only an approximate value. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site cannot be guaranteed. This data is intended for informational purposes only and should not replace professional dietary advice.

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