Baked Feta Dip with Fig Preserves and Toasted Pecans Recipe
This Baked Feta Dip is a warm, creamy, and flavorful appetizer featuring a golden baked block of feta cheese topped with toasted pecans and sweet fig preserves. Enhanced with aromatic herbs and avocado oil, this dip is perfect for serving with toasted baguette, pita bread, or crackers at any gathering.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Cheese and Seasonings
- 14 to 16 ounces block feta cheese
- 3 Tbsp avocado oil
- ½ tsp dried oregano (or dried parsley)
- 1 pinch black pepper
- ½ tsp fresh thyme (optional)
Topping
- ½ cup fig preserves
- ½ cup raw pecans, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the feta cheese.
- Toast the Pecans: Place the chopped pecans in a small skillet over medium heat on the stovetop. Stir occasionally and toast them for 1 to 3 minutes until they are crunchy and fragrant. Immediately transfer toasted pecans to a bowl and mix them with the fig preserves to combine flavors.
- Prepare the Feta: Remove the feta cheese blocks from their packaging and place them into a small oven-safe casserole dish. Drizzle the avocado oil evenly over the feta, then sprinkle with dried oregano (or parsley) and a pinch of black pepper to season.
- Bake the Feta: Bake the feta in the preheated 400°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese turns golden brown. This process melts the feta and develops a rich, creamy texture. Then, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F.
- Mix and Add Toppings: Transfer the baked feta to the serving dish if you used a different baking dish. Stir the baked feta gently with a spoon until it becomes creamy. Pour the combined fig preserves and toasted pecans on top of the creamy feta. Place it back in the oven at 350°F and bake for an additional 12 to 17 minutes or until the topping is hot and the cheese is bubbly.
- Finish and Serve: Carefully remove the baked feta dip from the oven. Place it on a trivet, kitchen towel, or baking sheet to protect your surface. Sprinkle the fresh thyme over the dip for an optional fresh herbal note. Serve warm with toasted baguette slices, pita bread, or crackers for dipping.
Notes
- Use a good quality block of feta cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- To toast pecans evenly, keep stirring them frequently to avoid burning.
- Dried oregano can be substituted with dried parsley depending on your preference.
- The dip is very hot straight out of the oven; allow it to cool slightly before serving to avoid burns.
- Fresh thyme is optional but adds a lovely aroma and flavor contrast.
- Serve with a variety of dippers such as pita, crackers, or crusty bread to cater to different tastes.
