Baked Feta Spread

Just in time for your Christmas parties, this SIMPLE feta spread is a delicious (and perhaps sinful) appetizer.  The original recipe calls for the cheese packet to be grilled, but I baked it tonight with a lovely result.  The husband and I enjoyed it spread on our bread and I may or may not have dipped everything else on my plate into it, as well.

Baked Feta Spread

adapted from Real Simple Magazine

1 12-ounce piece Feta, at room temperature
6 sprigs fresh thyme
2 tablespoons olive oil
black pepper
pita bread, pita chips, or toasted baguette, for serving


Preheat oven to 350. Place the Feta in the center of a large piece of heavy-duty foil. Top with the thyme, drizzle with the oil, and season with ¼ teaspoon pepper. Seal the foil to form a packet.
Bake the packet, until the Feta is soft in the center when pressed, 15 to 17 minutes. Transfer the Feta, herbs, and oil to a shallow bowl and serve with bread.