Imagine a warm, creamy block of feta cheese, beautifully baked with juicy cherry tomatoes, savory olives, and fragrant herbs. This baked feta with olives, basil, and rosemary is a dish that brings Mediterranean flavors straight to your table.

Whether you’re preparing for a cozy night in or hosting friends, this easy-to-make appetizer is a surefire hit. The combination of marinated vegetables and melted feta creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making every bite irresistible.

Serve it with slices of crusty French baguette and watch it disappear in no time. Ready to make this delicious dish? Let’s get started!

Baked Feta with Olives and Basil Marinade Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 block (8 oz) feta cheese, sliced in half horizontally
• 1 cup mixed olives, pitted
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh basil leaves, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried basil)
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Lemon zest from 1 lemon
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary leaves, chopped (for garnish)
• French bread or crackers, for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade:
   • In a bowl, combine the olives, cherry tomatoes, red onion, minced garlic, basil, olive oil, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and lemon zest.
   • Mix well to ensure all ingredients are coated with the olive oil and spices.
   • Let the mixture marinate for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
2. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Prepare the Feta:
   • Slice the block of feta cheese in half horizontally so you have two thinner blocks.
4. Layer the Ingredients:
   • In a medium-sized baking dish, place one half of the feta cheese.
   • Spread half of the marinated mixture over the feta.
   • Place the second half of the feta cheese on top of the first layer.
   • Spread the remaining marinated mixture on top of the second layer of feta.
5. Bake the Dish:
   • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
   • Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the feta is golden and slightly melted, and the tomatoes are soft and blistered.
6. Serve:
   • Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly.
   • Garnish with freshly chopped rosemary and parsley.
   • Serve warm with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.

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Video Recipe

Tips and Variations

Tips

1. Marinate Longer: For an even more intense flavor, let the marinated mixture sit for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
2. Serve Warm: This dish is best enjoyed warm, straight out of the oven. If it cools down, you can reheat it in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
3. Parchment Paper: Lining the baking dish with parchment paper makes for easier cleanup and prevents sticking.
4. Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh basil and rosemary on hand, they provide a more vibrant flavor compared to dried herbs.

Variations

1. Add Capers: For an extra briny flavor, mix in a tablespoon of capers with the olives and tomatoes.
2. Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Substitute fresh cherry tomatoes with sun-dried tomatoes for a richer taste.
3. Different Cheeses: Try using other types of cheese like goat cheese or halloumi for a different twist on this dish.
4. Spicy Kick: If you like it spicy, add a few slices of fresh jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the marinated mixture.
5. Vegetables: Add sliced bell peppers or zucchini for additional texture and flavor.

Enjoy experimenting with these tips and variations to make the dish your own!

Let’s embrace a slice of Austrian culinary tradition with our Apricot Cake with Marzipan recipe! Following in the footsteps of such classics as Sachertorte, Wiener Apfelstrudel, and Wiener Schnitzel, this cake combines the subtle sweetness of apricots with the rich, nutty flavor of marzipan.

It’s a fantastic recipe for anyone looking to expand their baking skills with a dish that’s as rewarding to make as it is to eat. Discover how simple and enjoyable it can be to bring a piece of Austrian tradition into your home with this beloved dessert. Let’s get started on this delightful voyage through Austria’s celebrated baking heritage!

Apricot Cake with Marzipan Recipe

Ingredients:

• 10-12 Fresh apricots, halved and pitted
• 7 tablespoons marzipan
• 7 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, separated
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• Zest of one lemon
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 tablespoon milk

Equipment:

• Baking tray
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Oven

Instructions:

1. Preparation:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Lightly grease your baking tray or line it with parchment paper.
2. Make the Yolk Mixture:
   • In a large bowl, combine the marzipan and powdered sugar. Add egg yolks and beat using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
3. Mix in Butter:
   • Incorporate the softened butter into the yolk mixture until well combined.
4. Prepare Egg White Mixture:
   • In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks develop.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   • In another bowl, whisk together the flour, lemon zest, and baking powder.
6. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients and milk to the yolk mixture, mixing until just combined.
7. Fold in Egg Whites:
   • Carefully fold the beaten egg whites into the main batter using a rubber spatula to keep the mixture light and airy.
8. Assemble the Cake:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared baking tray, spreading evenly. Arrange the apricot halves, cut side up, on top of the batter, pressing them slightly into the mixture.
9. Baking:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then, reduce the oven temperature to 320°F (160°C) and continue baking for another 10-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Cooling:
    • Allow the cake to cool in the tray for at least 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Absolutely in love with this Apricot and Marzipan Cake? Click the image below and pin it to your favorite Pinterest board! Share this mouthwatering recipe with friends and family—they’ll thank you for it!

Variations, Tips, and Tricks for Apricot and Marzipan Cake

Variations:

1. Different Fruits: While apricots are traditional, feel free to experiment with other fruits such as peaches, plums, or cherries to tailor the cake to your taste or seasonal availability.
2. Nutty Flavors: Swap out marzipan for almond paste or even add a handful of sliced almonds or walnuts into the batter for a crunchier texture.
3. Citrus Twist: Add a dash of orange zest along with the lemon zest for an extra citrusy kick that complements the sweetness of the fruit and marzipan.
4. Spice It Up: Introduce spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the flour mixture to add a warm and aromatic flavor, perfect for colder months.

Tips:

1. Apricot Placement: Place apricot halves snugly and slightly overlapping to ensure every slice is fruit-packed.
2. Marzipan Handling: If the marzipan is tough to stir, warm it slightly in the microwave for a few seconds or grate it for easier mixing.
3. Even Baking: Since the fruit adds moisture, check the cake’s doneness by inserting a toothpick in several places, especially where the batter is visible.

Tricks:

1. Prevent Fruit Sinking: Dust the apricot halves lightly with flour before placing them on the batter. This helps to keep them afloat during baking.
2. Enhance Flavor: Let the cake cool in the tray wrapped in a tea towel. This method helps the flavors to meld beautifully and keeps the cake moist.
3. Quick Cool Down: To cool the cake faster, place it near a window or a cooler area of your kitchen, but avoid drafty spots to prevent uneven cooling and texture.

Have you ever thought of tossing a peanut butter and jelly sandwich in the air fryer? Well, we did, and it turns out, it’s pretty awesome. It’s the same comfort food vibe you love but with a nice, crispy edge that’s seriously satisfying.

This recipe is all about taking those familiar ingredients off the shelf and giving them a little air fryer love to crisp them up. It’s perfect for anyone, really. Whether you’re needing a quick snack, feeding the kids, or just craving that PB&J nostalgia with a twist, this is your go-to. No fuss, just a really good sandwich with a bit of crunch. Let’s get into how you can make it.

Air Fryer Peanut Butter and Jelly Recipe

Ingredients:

• Bread: 4 slices of your preferred type
• Peanut Butter: 2-3 tablespoons (creamy or crunchy according to your taste)
• Jelly: 2-3 tablespoons (any flavor you love—strawberry, mango, grape, or raspberry brings out a delightful sweetness.)
• Butter: 1-2 tablespoons, softened

Instructions:

1. Prep Your Sandwich:
   • Start by laying out two slices of bread. On one slice, spread a generous layer of peanut butter. On the opposite slice, apply an equally generous layer of jelly. The richness of the peanut butter combined with the sweetness of the jelly creates that classic flavor we all adore.
   • Carefully bring the two slices together, with the peanut butter and jelly facing inward, creating your sandwich.
2. Add the Butter:
   • Take the softened butter and lightly coat both outer sides of the sandwich. This is the secret to achieving that perfectly golden and crispy exterior.
3. Air Fry to Perfection:
   • Place your buttered sandwich into the air fryer basket. There’s no need for preheating; the air fryer will do its magic from the get-go.
   • Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Let it cook for about 6-7 minutes. For the best results, flip the sandwich halfway through the cooking time. This ensures an evenly crispy texture on both sides.
4. Enjoy:
   • Once the sandwich is golden brown and crispy to your liking, carefully remove it from the air fryer. Let it cool for a minute or two for the ultimate crispy texture. Slice diagonally for that classic PB&J presentation and serve.

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Air Fryer PB&J Variations

The beauty of a PB&J is its simplicity, but who says simple can’t have a little flair? Here are some fun variations to try with your air fryer PB&J, keeping it easy but interesting:

• Go Bananas: Slice up a banana and layer it in with the peanut butter before cooking. It adds a sweet, creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the crunch.
• The Elvis: Inspired by the king of rock and roll’s favorite sandwich, add some sliced bananas and a generous drizzle of honey on top of the peanut butter. If you’re feeling adventurous, a slice of bacon inside goes a long way.
• Chocolate Dream: Swap out the jelly for a chocolate spread or Nutella for a decadent twist. Peanut butter and chocolate is a match made in heaven, especially when it’s warm and gooey.
• Crunch Factor: Add some sliced almonds or crushed pretzels inside the sandwich for an extra crunch. It’s a nice surprise texture-wise and boosts the flavor.
• Berry Switch-Up: Instead of traditional grape or strawberry jelly, try using raspberry, blackberry, or even a mixed berry jam. Each one brings its own unique taste to the table.
• Cheese Please: It might sound a bit out there, but adding a slice of mild cheese (like Brie or cream cheese) to the jelly side before air frying creates a melty, savory-sweet combo that’s unexpectedly good.
• Spice It Up: A sprinkle of cinnamon on the peanut butter, or even mixing in a little chili powder, can add a warm spice that contrasts nicely with the sweet jelly.

Remember, these are just starting points. The real fun comes in experimenting with your favorite flavors and discovering new combos. Who knew the humble PB&J could be such a canvas for creativity?