Hendrik's Baked Feta

This is another dish we served at the Party because it is one of Hendrik's favorite foods, but I forgot to take a good picture of it, so all I have is this little far-away shot of it. This amazing Appetizer Spread is a combination of Feta Cheese, cut up Cherry Tomatoes, a whole bunch of minced Scallions and Capers baked in the oven until it is melty and unctuous. Served on Crackers or grilled bread, it was a wonderful blend of classic Mediterranean flavors. I used authentic Greek Sheep's Milk Feta, which I can handle much better than the Cow's Milk Cheeses. The briny flavor of the Cheese and Capers blended beautifully with the tartness of the Tomatoes and the savory Scallions. Although we served this as an Appetizer, it is a recipe from his Mother, Ulla, that is intend to be used as a topping for baked Salmon and I think that adding chunks of Salmon to it would be amazing (after cooking it halfway). It's so easy to make and it was a big hit at the Party. You might want to consider making it at a party you host sometime soon too!

Hendrik's Baked Feta

3 packages Sheep's Milk Feta - about 24 ounces total, cut into small cubes

1 large bunch of Scallions (about 8) stem end removed, chopped into small pieces

2 cups of Cherry Tomatoes, cut in half

1 small jar of Capers, drained (about 3 ounces)

1/2 cup of Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Fresh Ground Black Pepper

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. In a large baking dish with high sides, mix together the Feta, Scallions, Cherry Tomatoes, Capers, Olive Oil and Pepper.  Place in the oven and bake for 45 minutes or until Cheese and Tomatoes are soft and the top is lightly browned. If adding Salmon, cook for 25 minutes and then add in Salmon and continue cooking for another 20 minutes. If you like it browner after it is cooked through, heat the oven to broil and broil carefully for up to 5 minutes. Serve with Crackers or toasted Bread.

Optional: One pound of boneless, skinless Salmon, cut into chunks.  

Five Element Analysis

Feta Cheese belongs to the Metal Element and the Scallions add even more. The Cherry Tomatoes contribute the Fire Element and the Capers and Olive Oil make sure that the Wood Element is also represented. The Earth and Water Elements are missing, so I served it with Potato Crackers and had other Appetizers that brought in the Water Element to make a balanced Five Element Appetizer Spread.