Appetizer > Mediterranean > Greek

Baked Tirokafteri with Feta and Olives Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups crumbled feta cheese
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup chopped Kalamata olives
- 1/4 cup chopped roasted red peppers
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

Special equipment needed:
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, Greek yogurt, chopped Kalamata olives, chopped roasted red peppers, chopped fresh parsley, lemon juice, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix well.
3. Pour the mixture into a baking dish.
4. Drizzle the extra-virgin olive oil over the top of the mixture.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
7. Sprinkle the chopped fresh dill, mint, oregano, thyme, and basil over the top of the baked tirokafteri.
8. Serve warm with pita bread or crackers.


- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
Temperature:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 6-8 people.

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 258
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Protein: 11g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of Kalamata olives, you can use green olives or a mix of both.
- Instead of roasted red peppers, you can use sun-dried tomatoes or fresh cherry tomatoes.
- Instead of Greek yogurt, you can use sour cream or cream cheese.
- Instead of feta cheese, you can use goat cheese or blue cheese.

Variations:
- Add chopped artichoke hearts or spinach to the mixture before baking.
- Top the baked tirokafteri with chopped walnuts or pine nuts for added crunch.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to drain any excess liquid from the feta cheese and Greek yogurt before mixing.
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
- You can make the mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover baked tirokafteri in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, place the baked tirokafteri in a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the baked tirokafteri in a decorative baking dish or on a platter.
- Garnish with extra chopped fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil.

Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh herbs
- Drizzle of olive oil
- Chopped nuts

Pairings:
- Pita bread
- Crackers
- Crudité vegetables

Suggested side dishes:
- Greek salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Grilled chicken or fish

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to thin it out.
- If the top is not golden brown, broil for a few minutes at the end of baking.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to refrigerate any leftover baked tirokafteri promptly.
- Do not leave the baked tirokafteri out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Food history:
- Tirokafteri is a traditional Greek dip made with feta cheese and peppers.

Flavor profiles:
- Salty
- Tangy
- Creamy
- Herbaceous

Serving suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer or snack.
- Great for parties or gatherings.

Related Categories

Cooking Method: N/A

Course Type: N/A

Dietary: N/A

Ingredient: N/A

Meal type: N/A

Occassion: N/A

Region: Greek

Taste: Spicy, Tangy, Savory, Salty, Herby