Marinated Feta
If you’re looking for an effortless yet impressive appetizer, this marinated feta is a must-make. Creamy feta cubes are gently infused with olive oil, orange zest, garlic, fresh herbs, and a touch of Serrano chile for subtle heat. This marinated feta recipe is perfect for entertaining, adding to a cheese board, or elevating a simple snack with crusty bread and olives. Best of all, it gets better as it sits, making it an ideal make-ahead appetizer.
Why You’ll Love This Marinated Feta
- A bold yet balanced Mediterranean-inspired appetizer
- No cooking required
- Perfect for cheese boards, mezze platters, and holiday entertaining
- Stores beautifully in the refrigerator
- Easily customizable with herbs and citrus
Ingredients
- 1 (10-ounce) container feta in brine, cut into cubes
- ¾ cup olive oil
- 3 strips orange zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
- 2 garlic cloves, smashed
- 1 red Serrano chile, thinly sliced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 1 sprig fresh oregano, leaves pulled off
- Pinch flaky salt
- Crusty bread or crackers, for serving
- Mixed olives, for serving
Chef Tips for the Best Marinated Feta
Save the leftover oil, it’s incredible drizzled over roasted vegetables or grilled bread.
Use feta in brine for the creamiest texture and best flavor.
Let the feta marinate at least overnight, time is the secret ingredient.
Always bring the feta to room temperature before serving to allow the olive oil to loosen.
Slice the Serrano thin for gentle heat, or remove the seeds for a milder version.
Serving Ideas
- Add to a cheese or charcuterie board
- Spoon over roasted vegetables or grilled chicken
- Toss gently into warm pasta or farro
- Serve as part of a Mediterranean mezze platter
Storage
Store marinated feta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. The flavor improves with time.

Marinated Feta
Ingredients
- 1 (10-ounce) container of feta in the brine, cut into cubes
- ¾ cup olive oil
- 3 strips orange zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
- 2 garlic cloves, smashed
- 1 Red Serrano Chile, thinly sliced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 1 sprig fresh oregano, leaves pulled off
- pinch flaky salt
- crusty bread or crackers, for serving
- mixed olives, for serving
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, orange zest, orange juice, garlic cloves, serrano chile, bay leaf, dried oregano, parsley, and fresh oregano; whisk to combine.
- Add feta cubes to a jar or bowl. Pour the olive oil mixture over the feta. Cover and refrigerate for 1 day or up to 2 hours before serving (for best flavor).
- Bring to room temperature and sprinkle with flaky salt right before serving. Enjoy!
