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Marinated Feta With Roasted Lemon

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 28 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This marinated feta with roasted lemon is an elegant vegetarian dish that brings a bright, Mediterranean flair to any table. By roasting the lemon slices first, you mellow their sharp acidity and unlock a deep, caramelised sweetness that pairs beautifully with the salty tang of the Greek cheese. Infused with a hint of heat from dried chillies and the herbal aroma of bay leaves, the olive oil becomes a fragrant dressing that is just as delicious as the feta itself.

Perfect as part of a summer spread or a festive grazing board, this recipe is best prepared at least a day in advance to let the flavours develop. Serve it alongside warm flatbreads or crusty sourdough to soak up the citrus-infused oil. It is a simple yet sophisticated make-ahead appetiser that keeps well in the fridge for several days, making it ideal for stress-free entertaining.

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Ingredients for Marinated Feta With Roasted Lemon

  • 1 lemon, sliced, seeds removed

  • 2 tablespoons plus 120ml olive oil

  • 230g feta, sliced 1/2 inch thick

  • 2 dried chillies de árbol or other dried red chillies, lightly crushed

  • 2 bay leaves

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

  • Freshly ground black pepper

How to make Marinated Feta With Roasted Lemon

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Preheat oven to 204°C. Toss lemon slices and 2 tablespoons oil on a rimmed baking sheet; roast until caramelized and lightly charred in a few spots, 10–12 minutes; let cool.

Combine lemon slices, feta, chillies, bay leaves, lemon juice, and remaining 120ml oil in a small dish; season with pepper. Cover; chill 12 hours.

Feta can be made 5 days ahead. Cover and chill.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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