Step 1

1 In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes and cucumbers and sprinkle lightly with salt

Step 2

2 Preheat the grill to high (see NOTES)

Step 3

3 In a small bowl, whisk together 4 tablespoons of oil, the lemon juice, 1/8 teaspoon of salt and the pepper

Step 4

4 Add the red onion to the dressing

Step 5

5 Generously grease a heatproof baking pan and transfer the feta to the pan

Step 6

6 Top each block with sprigs of fresh thyme or dill, or with the dried herbs

Step 7

7 Drizzle with the remaining oil, and the honey, and season generously with black pepper

Step 8

8 Place the pan on the grill grate, cover and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the feta is softened and golden around the edges

Step 9

9 (At the last minute, you can add the pita to the grill to toast, if you like

Step 10

10 ) Transfer to a heatproof surface to cool for 2 to 3 minutes, then cut each block in half diagonally

Step 11

11 Drain the tomatoes and cucumbers, if necessary

Step 12

12 Return them to the bowl and toss with the dressing, olives and oregano

Step 13

13 Divide the tomato mixture among the bowls and top each with a wedge of feta

Step 14

14 Sprinkle with the mint leaves, if using, and more pepper, if desired

Step 15

15 Serve with pita chips or toasted pita and lemon wedges

Step 16

16 NOTES: The feta can be baked instead

Step 17

17 Preheat the oven to 425 degrees with the rack in the middle

Step 18

18 Oil an ovenproof casserole dish or cast-iron skillet

Step 19

19 Prepare the feta as directed and roast, 20 to 25 minutes, or until softened and golden around the edges

Step 20

20 To prepare the grill: If using a gas grill, set it to 475 degrees

Step 21

21 If using a charcoal grill, fill 2 chimney starters with charcoal, light them and when the coals are white-gray with ash, pour them into charcoal grate, adding more charcoal, if necessary, and put the lid on the grill, making sure the air vents are open all the way

Step 22

22 When all of the coals are gray and hot, about 15 to 20 minutes, your grill should be between 475 to 500

Step 23

23 (Use a grill thermometer or test the heat by holding your hand, palm-down about 4 inches above the coals for about 2 to 4 seconds

Step 24

24 ) A charcoal grill may make this recipe take about 20 minutes longer