Baked Feta Bites with Red Peppers, Jam, and Chili Oil Recipe

If you have a craving for a perfect balance of creamy, savory, sweet, and spicy flavors all packed into a single bite, this baked feta bites and chili oil recipe is your new go-to appetizer. Combining flaky puff pastry, tangy feta cheese, sweet roasted red peppers, and a luscious jam, then elevating the whole experience with a drizzle of vibrant chili oil, these little bites bring an exciting fusion of textures and tastes that will impress anyone at your next gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Keeping things simple is key with this and chili oil recipe. Each ingredient plays a vital role—from the flaky texture of the puff pastry to the sweet jam that balances the salty feta, and finally, the chili oil that ties everything together with a gentle kick.

• All-purpose flour: Lightly dusting your surface ensures the pastry rolls out smoothly without sticking or tearing.
• Puff pastry (1 package, thawed): This buttery, flaky base is essential for crafting the perfect cups to hold all the delicious fillings.
• Cooking spray: Prevents the puff pastry from sticking to the muffin tin for easy removal.
• Fig, apricot, or peach jam (2 Tbsp.): Adds a subtle sweetness that beautifully contrasts the salty feta.
• Sliced shallots (2 Tbsp.): A mild onion flavor that adds depth without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Roasted red peppers (1 jar/10 oz.): Their smoky sweetness pairs perfectly with the creamy feta and jam.
• Feta cheese (8 oz., cubed): The star of the dish with its creamy, salty bite that’s irresistible.
• Fresh thyme leaves (1 Tbsp. plus extra): Brings a bright, herby note to lighten the richness of the cheese and pastry.
• Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors without making it too salty.
• Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and complexity to each bite.
• Lemon zest: Provides a zesty freshness that brightens the entire dish.
• Chili oil (2 Tbsp.): This is the fiery, flavorful finishing touch that sets this recipe apart and makes it unforgettable.

How to Make Baked Feta Bites with Red Peppers, Jam, and Chili Oil Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pastry

Start by setting your oven to 425°F—high heat ensures that golden, puffed perfection. Dust your work surface lightly with flour so the puff pastry doesn’t stick as you roll it out. Gently smooth out any creases to get an even texture, then carefully cut the dough into 24 equal squares with a sharp knife.

Step 2: Prepare the Muffin Tin

Next, spray a 24-cup mini muffin tin with cooking spray to prevent sticking—this is crucial for those delicate dough cups. Press each pastry square gently into a muffin cup, folding the edges just above the rim so the cups puff beautifully and hold the fillings securely after baking.

Step 3: Fill the Pastry Cups

Now the fun begins! Spoon a small dollop of your preferred jam into each pastry cup. Add a sprinkle of thinly sliced shallots for that subtle onion bite, followed by a piece of roasted red pepper for smoky sweetness. Top each with a cube of feta cheese, sprinkle fresh thyme over, and season lightly with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to balance the flavors.

Step 4: Bake the Bites

Slide the muffin tin into your preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes. You want the pastry to puff fully and turn a gorgeous golden brown. Once baked, let them cool in the tin for five minutes to set up properly before removing.

Step 5: Finish with Chili Oil

Finally, transfer these delightful bites to a serving platter and give each a drizzle of chili oil. The chili oil recipe is what brings this dish alive—it adds a zesty heat and vibrant color that complements every flavor on the plate.

How to Serve Baked Feta Bites with Red Peppers, Jam, and Chili Oil Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh thyme leaves and a sprinkle of lemon zest are more than beautiful touches; they introduce refreshing herbal and citrus notes that cut through the richness beautifully. A little extra drizzle of chili oil ensures every bite has that wonderful spicy pop you expect from this recipe.

Side Dishes

This appetizer shines when paired with crisp, refreshing sides. Think a crisp green salad tossed with a citrus vinaigrette or a bowl of marinated olives to complement the salty feta and smoky peppers. The chili oil recipe really amplifies these pairings, making your spread unforgettable.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these baked feta bites on a rustic wooden board with small ramekins of extra jam and chili oil on the side for dipping. Or, arrange them on a tiered platter at a party so everyone can savor this dreamy combination at their leisure. The chili oil recipe’s vibrant red hue adds a stunning visual pop that guests will notice right away.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare!), keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The puff pastry might lose a bit of its crispness, but reheating will restore much of the original texture.

Freezing

These bites don’t freeze well due to the delicate texture of the pastry and fresh ingredients. It’s best to prepare fresh for maximum flavor and texture, especially when you want that perfect finish with the chili oil recipe.

Reheating

To reheat, pop the bites in a 350°F oven for about 8-10 minutes. This brings back the flaky crispness of the pastry and warms the filling just right. A quick drizzle of chili oil after reheating revives that fresh, spicy kick.

FAQs

Can I use other cheeses instead of feta?

While feta’s crumbly and salty nature is ideal for this recipe, you could try halloumi or goat cheese for a different flavor, though the texture and salt balance will change slightly.

Is it possible to make the chili oil from scratch?

Absolutely! Making your own chili oil lets you control the heat level and flavor intensity, enhancing this and chili oil recipe even more.

What jam works best in this recipe?

Fig, apricot, and peach jams all work wonderfully because of their natural sweetness and slight tartness that cut through the salty feta and spicy chili oil.

Can I prepare these bites vegan or dairy-free?

Yes, by substituting the feta with a plant-based cheese alternative and ensuring the puff pastry is dairy-free, you can enjoy a vegan version, though the flavors will adjust accordingly.

How spicy is the chili oil?

The spice level depends on the type of chili oil you use or make. You can tailor it from mild to fiery, making this and chili oil recipe flexible for all heat preferences.

Final Thoughts

This baked feta bites and chili oil recipe is a joyous celebration of flavor and texture. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself, these little bites are bound to bring smiles and spark conversations. Give them a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this winning combination in your appetizer repertoire!

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