Baked Feta Eggs

There’s something magical about the combination of creamy feta, fresh vegetables, and perfectly baked eggs. Baked Feta Eggs have taken social media by storm, captivating food enthusiasts with their vibrant colors and rich flavors. This dish is not only visually appealing but also a wholesome breakfast or brunch option, perfect for lazy Sundays or brunch gatherings with friends.

The appeal of Baked Feta Eggs lies in its simplicity and versatility. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a delightful meal that’s as satisfying as it is nourishing. The creamy, tangy feta pairs beautifully with the sweetness of roasted tomatoes and peppers, while the eggs add a rich source of protein. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some veggies to start your day right!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes
  Juicy and sweet, these tomatoes burst with flavor when baked, providing a fresh base for the dish. They add a natural sweetness that balances the saltiness of the feta.

• 1 red bell pepper, diced
  The red bell pepper contributes a crunchy texture and a slight sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile while adding vibrant color.

• 1/2 small red onion, diced
  The red onion brings a mild, slightly sweet taste to the mix. When roasted, it caramelizes, adding depth to the dish.

• 3 cloves minced garlic
  Garlic is the aromatic hero that infuses the dish with warmth and richness, enhancing all the flavors with its savory elegance.

• 8 ounces feta cheese
  Feta is the star of the show with its creamy texture and tangy taste. It melts beautifully, enriching the overall dish and adding an irresistible flavor.

• 4 tablespoons olive oil
  Olive oil brings richness and helps in roasting the veggies, ensuring they caramelize to perfection while also creating a luscious sauce that coats the dish.

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  This herb adds a hint of earthy flavor, reminiscent of Mediterranean cuisine, complementing the feta and other ingredients beautifully.

• 1 teaspoon sea salt
  Salt is essential for enhancing flavors and drawing out moisture, helping to create a more concentrated taste from the ingredients.

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  Thyme introduces a subtle, woodsy note that rounds out the flavor profile, making each bite richly aromatic.

• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  Black pepper brings a touch of heat and enhances all the flavors, ensuring the dish isn’t one-dimensional.

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a slight kick of heat, elevating the dish while still being approachable for those who prefer milder flavors.

• 1 cup chopped baby spinach
  Spinach adds a boost of nutrition and a beautiful green contrast, wilting down and melding with the other ingredients.

• 4 large eggs
  Eggs are the centerpiece, providing protein and creating a luscious, creamy texture as they bake into the roasted veggies.

• Optional for topping: chopped fresh basil or fresh chives
  Fresh herbs add a vibrant finish to the dish. They bring a pop of color and a fresh aroma that brightens the entire experience.

Directions & Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
   Preheating is crucial for even cooking. It ensures that when you place your dish in the oven, the ingredients begin roasting immediately, enhancing flavors and textures from the start.

2. If using ramekins, divide the tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, garlic, and feta cheese between 4 oven-safe dishes and drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil over each. If using one large dish, combine the vegetables and place the feta in the center before drizzling olive oil over it.
   Utilizing ramekins or a large dish gives you flexibility in serving. The olive oil is essential as it promotes browning and adds depth of flavor, so be generous!

3. Mix the dried oregano, salt, dried thyme, black pepper, and red pepper flakes in a bowl. Sprinkle over the vegetables and feta.
   This herb and spice blend elevates the overall taste. Sprinkling them evenly ensures each bite is flavorful, creating a delightful balance among the ingredients.

4. Bake for 25 minutes until the vegetables are tender and feta is golden.
   This initial baking allows the vegetables to soften and develop flavors. Keep an eye on them; you want the feta to be slightly browned for maximum flavor.

5. Stir the mixture, add spinach, and create wells for the eggs. Crack an egg into each well and return to the oven.
   Stirring integrates all the flavors and allows the spinach to wilt down properly. Creating wells for the eggs helps them cook evenly, ensuring that the whites set while the yolks remain deliciously runny.

6. Bake for an additional 10 minutes until the eggs are set.
   The final baking is where the magic happens. Monitor your eggs; depending on your preferred doneness, you may want to adjust the time slightly.

7. Top with fresh herbs and serve with bread.
   Fresh herbs are the final flourish that brings brightness to the dish. Pairing it with bread is perfect for scooping up those delicious flavors.

Flavor Combinations to Explore

Baked Feta Eggs are delightful on their own, but this dish also invites creative adaptations. To add an extra burst of flavor, consider incorporating sun-dried tomatoes or olives into the mix. These ingredients offer a Mediterranean twist, heightening the dish’s appeal while maintaining its core essence. Customizing this dish allows you to explore flavors that you love while keeping the original framework intact.

Veggie Variations

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetables! Zucchini, eggplant, or even leafy greens like kale can be excellent substitutes or additions. Each vegetable brings its unique nuance, ensuring that no two Baked Feta Eggs are ever the same. Seasonal produce can be particularly delightful, allowing for fresh, vibrant combinations that celebrate what’s available at your local market.

The Perfect Brunch Dish

Whether hosting a brunch gathering or enjoying a quiet weekend morning, Baked Feta Eggs make a fantastic centerpiece. They not only provide comfort and warmth but also offer a stunning visual presentation that’s sure to impress any guest. The combination of nutritious ingredients means that you can indulge guilt-free, making it a winner in both taste and health.

FAQs

• Can I use block feta instead of crumbled feta?
  Yes, using block feta will yield a richer texture. Just cut it into chunks or slices and place it in the center of your dish.

• What if my vegetables are too watery?
  If the vegetables release too much moisture, consider reducing the baking time in step 4 or draining excess liquid before adding the eggs.

• Can I make this dish spicier?
  Absolutely! Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to customize the heat level to your liking.

• How long can I store leftovers?
  Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the eggs.

• What if the eggs are overcooked?
  Overcooked eggs can become rubbery. Next time, keep a close watch on the baking time during the final step for perfect yolks.

• Is there a way to scale this recipe?
  Yes! Simply increase the quantities proportionately based on the number of servings you want to prepare. Just ensure your baking dish can accommodate the increase.

• Can I add meat to this dish?
  Yes, cooked bacon or sausage crumbles would add a savory depth to the dish. Just mix them in with the vegetables before baking.

Conclusion

Baked Feta Eggs are a delightful way to start the day, offering a delicious combination of flavors and nutrients that satisfy and nourish. With their ease of preparation and vibrant presentation, they are perfect for both bustling brunches and quiet mornings. Whether you stick to the classic ingredients or customize them to your heart’s content, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire. Enjoy!

Baked Feta Eggs

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: hanan
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A delightful blend of creamy feta, fresh vegetables, and perfectly baked eggs, ideal for breakfast or brunch gatherings.

---

Ingredients

• 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 small red onion, diced
• 3 cloves minced garlic
• 8 ounces feta cheese
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 cup chopped baby spinach
• 4 large eggs
• Optional: chopped fresh basil or fresh chives for topping

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
2. If using ramekins, divide the tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, garlic, and feta cheese between 4 oven-safe dishes and drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil over each. If using one large dish, combine the vegetables and place the feta in the center before drizzling olive oil over it.
3. Mix the dried oregano, salt, dried thyme, black pepper, and red pepper flakes in a bowl. Sprinkle over the vegetables and feta.
4. Bake for 25 minutes until the vegetables are tender and feta is golden.
5. Stir the mixture, add spinach, and create wells for the eggs. Crack an egg into each well and return to the oven.
6. Bake for an additional 10 minutes until the eggs are set.
7. Top with fresh herbs and serve with bread.

Notes

Feel free to customize with other vegetables like zucchini or kale. This is a versatile dish that can be adjusted to taste.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 240mg