Baked Tomato and Feta Rice

Chloe

Nurturing taste buds (and souls) with every recipe.

After a particularly hectic week, the aroma wafting from my kitchen as this Baked Tomato and Feta Rice bubbled away was pure bliss. It’s one of those dishes that manages to be both incredibly simple to throw together and deeply satisfying to eat. The creamy feta melts into the sweet roasted tomatoes, infusing the fluffy rice with a tangy, salty, and utterly addictive flavor. Even my picky eaters, who usually turn their noses up at anything “saucy,” devoured it. It’s become a regular in our household, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a casual weekend lunch. The leftovers, if there are any, are just as delicious the next day, making it a fantastic meal prep option too. Trust me, this is a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients

Long Grain Rice: 2 cups, the foundation of our dish, providing a fluffy and absorbent base to soak up all the delicious flavors. Opt for long grain for the best texture.
Cherry Tomatoes: 500g, the star of the show, bursting with sweetness and acidity when roasted, creating a rich and vibrant sauce. Choose ripe and plump tomatoes for the best flavor.
Block Feta Cheese: 200g, the creamy and salty counterpoint to the tomatoes, melting beautifully in the oven and adding a luxurious texture. Use a block of feta for baking; pre-crumbled feta may dry out.
Olive Oil: ¼ cup, essential for roasting the tomatoes and rice, adding richness and helping everything caramelize beautifully. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its flavor and health benefits.
Garlic: 4 cloves, minced, adding a pungent and aromatic base note that complements the tomatoes and feta perfectly. Freshly minced garlic is always best for flavor.
Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon, providing a classic Mediterranean herb flavor that enhances the tomatoes and feta. Dried oregano is convenient, but fresh oregano can also be used.
Dried Basil: 1 teaspoon, adding a sweet and slightly peppery note that balances the oregano and complements the tomato flavor. Dried basil is readily available and works well in baked dishes.
Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): ½ teaspoon, for a touch of heat to cut through the richness of the feta and tomatoes. Adjust the amount to your spice preference or omit entirely if you prefer a milder dish.
Vegetable Broth or Water: 4 cups, the liquid used to cook the rice, infusing it with flavor and ensuring it cooks perfectly in the oven. Vegetable broth enhances the savory notes, but water works well too.
Fresh Parsley (for garnish): ¼ cup, chopped, adding a fresh, herbaceous finish and a pop of color to the dish. Fresh parsley brightens up the flavors and adds visual appeal.
Salt and Black Pepper: To taste, essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors of all the ingredients. Season generously to enhance the natural flavors of the tomatoes and feta.

Instructions

Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Choose a 9×13 inch baking dish or a similar sized oven-safe dish. The size is important to ensure even cooking of the rice.
Combine Ingredients in Baking Dish: In the prepared baking dish, add the long grain rice, cherry tomatoes, block of feta cheese, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Distribute the ingredients evenly in the dish.
Drizzle with Olive Oil and Season: Drizzle the olive oil over all the ingredients in the baking dish. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning, as it will flavor the entire dish.
Pour in Broth or Water: Pour the vegetable broth or water into the baking dish. Ensure the liquid is evenly distributed over the rice and other ingredients. The liquid level should be slightly above the rice.
Bake Until Rice is Cooked: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This will trap the steam and ensure the rice cooks properly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Check for doneness by gently fluffing the rice with a fork; it should be soft and not crunchy.
Remove Foil and Bake Further (Optional for Browning): If you prefer a slightly browned top and more roasted tomatoes, carefully remove the aluminum foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the tomatoes are softened and slightly blistered and the feta is melted and slightly golden. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Mash Feta and Tomatoes (Partially): Once baked, remove the dish from the oven. Use a fork to gently mash some of the feta cheese and roasted tomatoes into the rice. You don’t need to mash everything completely; leaving some chunks of feta and whole tomatoes adds texture and visual appeal. This step creates a creamy and flavorful sauce that coats the rice.
Fluff Rice and Garnish: Fluff the rice with a fork to distribute the mashed feta and tomatoes evenly. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for garnish. This adds freshness and a pop of color.
Serve Hot: Serve the Baked Tomato and Feta Rice hot as a main course or a side dish. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or vegetables. Enjoy the delicious combination of creamy feta, sweet tomatoes, and fluffy rice!

Nutrition Facts

(Per serving, based on 6 servings, approximate values)

Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup
Calories: 350 kcal
Protein: 12g

(Please note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used. For accurate nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with specific ingredient details.)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes (This includes gathering ingredients, chopping garlic, and assembling everything in the baking dish. The beauty of this recipe is its minimal prep work, making it ideal for busy weeknights.)
Cook Time: 35-45 minutes (The baking time is mostly hands-off, allowing you to focus on other tasks while the oven works its magic. The initial covered baking steams the rice, and the optional uncovered baking adds roasting and browning.)
Total Time: Approximately 50-60 minutes (From start to finish, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal ready in about an hour. This includes both the active prep time and the passive cooking time.)

How to Serve Baked Tomato and Feta Rice

This versatile dish can be served in numerous ways, making it perfect for various occasions. Here are some serving suggestions:

As a Main Course:
- Vegetarian Main: Enjoy it as a hearty and flavorful vegetarian main dish. It’s satisfying on its own and packed with flavor and texture.
- With Grilled Protein: Pair it with grilled chicken, fish (like salmon or cod), shrimp, or halloumi cheese for a complete and balanced meal. The rice acts as a delicious and flavorful side that complements the protein perfectly.
- Alongside Roasted Vegetables: Serve it with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, or asparagus for a vibrant and healthy meal. The roasted vegetables enhance the Mediterranean flavors of the rice.
As a Side Dish:
- Mediterranean Feast: Include it as part of a Mediterranean-inspired spread with hummus, pita bread, olives, and a Greek salad. It complements other Mediterranean dishes beautifully and adds a warm, comforting element.
- Potluck or Gathering: Bring it to a potluck, BBQ, or casual gathering. It travels well and is delicious served warm or at room temperature. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to be a hit.
- Lunch Leftovers: Enjoy leftovers for lunch the next day. The flavors meld together even more overnight, making it a delicious and convenient lunch option.
Serving Suggestions for Different Seasons:
- Summer: Serve it cold or at room temperature as a refreshing summer salad, perhaps with some extra fresh herbs like mint or dill. It’s a light and flavorful option for warm weather.
- Winter: Serve it warm straight from the oven as a comforting and cozy winter meal. The warm, roasted flavors are perfect for chilly evenings.
- Spring/Autumn: Enjoy it warm or at room temperature, depending on the weather. It’s a versatile dish that works well in transitional seasons.

Additional Tips for Perfect Baked Tomato and Feta Rice

To ensure your Baked Tomato and Feta Rice is a success every time, consider these helpful tips:

Use Good Quality Feta: Opt for a block of feta cheese in brine, preferably Greek feta. It has a richer flavor and creamier texture compared to pre-crumbled feta, which can be drier and saltier. The quality of feta significantly impacts the overall taste.
Don’t Skimp on Olive Oil: Olive oil is crucial for flavor and texture. It helps roast the tomatoes and rice, preventing them from drying out and adding richness. Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best results.
Roast the Tomatoes Properly: Roasting the cherry tomatoes until they are softened and slightly blistered is key to developing their sweetness and depth of flavor. Don’t under-bake them; they should be tender and juicy.
Adjust Spices to Your Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of dried oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes to your liking. You can also add other herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, or a pinch of smoked paprika for variation. Experiment to find your perfect flavor profile.
Rinse Your Rice (Optional but Recommended): Rinsing the long grain rice before baking can remove excess starch, resulting in fluffier and less sticky rice. This is especially helpful if you prefer a more separate grain texture.
Ensure Even Liquid Distribution: Make sure the vegetable broth or water is evenly distributed over the rice in the baking dish. This ensures that all the rice grains cook evenly and absorb the liquid properly. Pour the liquid gently over the dish.
Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can dry out the rice and make it tough. Check for doneness after 30-35 minutes and adjust baking time as needed. The rice should be tender and have absorbed most of the liquid, but still be slightly moist.
Add a Squeeze of Lemon Juice (Optional): A squeeze of fresh lemon juice after baking can brighten up the flavors and add a touch of acidity. This is particularly delicious if you want to enhance the fresh and vibrant notes of the dish.

FAQ About Baked Tomato and Feta Rice

Q1: Can I use a different type of rice?
A: While long grain rice is recommended for its texture and absorbency, you can use other types of rice like basmati or jasmine rice. Cooking times may need slight adjustments depending on the type of rice used. Avoid short grain rice varieties like Arborio, as they might become too creamy for this dish.

Q2: Can I use pre-crumbled feta cheese?
A: It’s best to use a block of feta cheese for baking as it melts more smoothly and stays creamier. Pre-crumbled feta can be drier and saltier and may not melt as well. If you only have pre-crumbled feta, you can still use it, but consider adding a drizzle of extra olive oil to help it melt and stay moist.

Q3: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and bake it later. Assemble all the ingredients in the baking dish, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours before baking. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold. Leftovers also store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q4: Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables to the baking dish along with the tomatoes. Good options include bell peppers (diced), zucchini (diced), red onion (sliced), or olives. Add them at the same time as the tomatoes and adjust baking time if needed to ensure vegetables are cooked through.

Q5: Is this recipe gluten-free and vegetarian?
A: Yes, this Baked Tomato and Feta Rice recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. Ensure your vegetable broth is also gluten-free if necessary.

Q6: Can I make this recipe vegan?
A: To make this recipe vegan, you would need to substitute the feta cheese. You can use a vegan feta alternative that is designed for baking. There are several plant-based feta options available in supermarkets that melt and mimic the salty, tangy flavor of traditional feta.

Q7: Can I double or halve this recipe?
A: Yes, you can easily double or halve this recipe to adjust the serving size. If doubling, use a larger baking dish to ensure even cooking. If halving, use a smaller dish and reduce baking time slightly.

Q8: What if my rice is still a little crunchy after baking?
A: If your rice is still slightly crunchy after the initial baking time, add a little more broth or water (about ¼ cup), cover the dish again with foil, and continue baking for another 5-10 minutes, or until the rice is tender. Ensure the dish is tightly covered to trap steam and cook the rice thoroughly.