Spiced Citrus Marinated Feta

628 1 minute read

Feta is already a Mediterranean favorite—creamy, tangy, and endlessly snackable. But when you bathe it in a vibrant citrus marinade kissed with warm spices and fresh herbs, it becomes something extraordinary. This Spiced Citrus Marinated Feta is bold, bright, and beautifully simple to make. It’s the kind of dish that turns heads on a mezze platter and adds a burst of flavor to even the humblest weekday lunch.

🧾 Ingredients Overview

Category	Ingredient	Notes
Core	Feta cheese (2 blocks, 7 oz each)	Use block feta in brine for best texture and flavor
	Avocado oil (1/2 cup)	Or substitute with olive oil for a classic touch
	Fresh orange juice (3 tbsp)	Adds brightness and acidity
	Orange zest (1 tbsp)	For extra citrus punch
	Agave syrup (2 tsp)	Balances the salt and acid
	Green olives (1 tbsp, finely chopped)	Adds savory depth
	Fresh mint (1 tbsp, finely chopped)	Cooling and herbaceous
Spices	Smoked paprika (1 heaping tsp)	Adds warmth and color
	Crushed black pepper (1 tsp)	Mild heat and aroma
	Ground cumin (1/2 tsp)	Earthy and grounding

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together all marinade ingredients until well blended. The mixture should be fragrant, zesty, and a rich orange hue.

2. Prep the Feta

Pat the feta blocks dry with a paper towel to remove excess brine. Cut into 1-inch cubes for easy serving and optimal flavor absorption.

3. Marinate

Spread a spoonful of marinade in the bottom of a shallow dish or wide jar. Add the feta cubes in a single or double layer. Pour the remaining marinade over the top, gently tilting or stirring to coat all sides.

4. Chill

Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For deeper flavor, marinate for 4 hours or overnight, stirring occasionally to ensure even coverage.

5. Serve

Bring to room temperature before serving to let the flavors bloom. Drizzle with extra marinade and enjoy as-is, or pair with crusty bread, roasted vegetables, or grain bowls.

628 1 minute read