Baked Feta Dip with Fig Preserves and Toasted Pecans Recipe

Introduction

This baked feta dip combines creamy, tangy cheese with the sweetness of fig preserves and the crunch of toasted pecans. It’s an effortless appetizer that comes together quickly and is perfect for sharing at parties or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

• 14 to 16 ounces block feta cheese
• 3 tablespoons avocado oil
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano (or dried parsley)
• 1 pinch black pepper
• ½ cup fig preserves
• ½ cup raw pecans, chopped
• ½ teaspoon fresh thyme (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Step 2: Toast the chopped pecans in a small skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until crunchy and fragrant, about 1 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat and mix the pecans with the fig preserves in a bowl.
3. Step 3: Place the feta blocks in a small oven-safe dish, such as a casserole dish. Drizzle with avocado oil, then sprinkle with dried oregano and a pinch of black pepper.
4. Step 4: Bake the feta at 400°F for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and lower the temperature to 350°F. Stir the baked feta until creamy in the serving dish.
5. Step 5: Spread the fig and pecan mixture over the creamy feta. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 12 to 17 minutes at 350°F, until the topping is hot and the cheese is bubbling.
6. Step 6: Remove from the oven and sprinkle fresh thyme on top, if using. Let guests know the dip is very hot before serving with toasted baguette, pita bread, or crackers.

Tips & Variations

• For a different flavor, substitute dried oregano with dried thyme or rosemary.
• Swap pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty crunch.
• Use honey instead of fig preserves for a lighter, floral sweetness.
• Serve with fresh vegetables like cucumber slices or bell pepper strips for a lighter option.

Storage

Store any leftover baked feta dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess. Note that the topping may lose some crispness after reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese for this dip?

Feta’s crumbly texture and salty flavor work best, but you could try halloumi or goat cheese for a different twist. Just keep in mind they melt differently, so baking times may vary.

Is avocado oil necessary, or can I use another oil?

Avocado oil is preferred for its mild flavor and high smoke point, but olive oil is a fine substitute. Avoid strongly flavored oils that might overpower the dip.

Baked Feta Dip with Fig Preserves and Toasted Pecans Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 125 reviews

A delicious and creamy baked feta dip topped with sweet fig preserves and toasted pecans, perfect for serving warm with crusty bread or crackers. This easy appetizer combines tangy feta, rich avocado oil, aromatic herbs, and a sweet-nutty topping for a crowd-pleasing dish.

• Author: Caleb
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cheese and Oil

• 14 to 16 ounces block feta cheese
• 3 Tbsp avocado oil

Herbs and Spices

• ½ tsp dried oregano (or dried parsley)
• 1 pinch black pepper
• ½ tsp fresh thyme (optional)

Toppings

• ½ cup fig preserves
• ½ cup raw pecans, chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the feta cheese to a golden brown.
2. Toast the Pecans: Place chopped pecans in a small skillet over medium heat on the stovetop. Stir occasionally, toasting them until they become crunchy and aromatic, about 1 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat immediately and transfer them to a bowl or measuring cup.
3. Mix Pecans with Fig Preserves: Add the fig preserves to the toasted pecans and mix thoroughly to combine the sweet and nutty flavors.
4. Prepare the Feta for Baking: Remove feta blocks from packaging and place them in a small oven-safe dish like a casserole dish. Drizzle the avocado oil evenly over the feta and sprinkle with dried oregano and a pinch of black pepper for seasoning.
5. Bake the Feta: Bake the feta at 400°F for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is golden brown on top. Then, remove from the oven and reduce the oven temperature to 350°F.
6. Create the Creamy Dip: Transfer the baked feta to your serving dish and stir with a spoon until the cheese becomes creamy and smooth.
7. Add Toppings and Finish Baking: Spoon the fig and toasted pecan mixture over the creamy feta. Return the dish to the oven at 350°F and bake for an additional 12 to 17 minutes until the topping is hot and the cheese bubbles.
8. Garnish and Serve: Remove the baked feta dip from the oven. Place it on a trivet, towel, or baking sheet to protect your surface and warn guests that it is hot. Sprinkle fresh thyme over the top if using. Serve warm with toasted baguette slices, pita bread, or crackers.

Notes

• For a nut-free version, omit the pecans and top with additional fig preserves or seeds like pumpkin seeds.
• You can substitute dried oregano with dried parsley or your favorite herb according to taste.
• Be sure to toast the pecans lightly to enhance their flavor without burning.
• This dip is best served warm but can be reheated gently in the oven if needed.
• Use a high-quality block of feta for the creamiest texture and best flavor.

Keywords: baked feta dip, feta cheese appetizer, fig preserves dip, toasted pecans, easy baked dip, Mediterranean appetizer, party dip