Phyllo-Wrapped Feta with Honey: the Recipe for a Delicious Greek Appetizer, Perfect for Brunch During Summer
Forget complicated appetizers! Phyllo-Wrapped Baked Feta with Honey is your new go-to. Made with just a few key ingredients (feta cheese, phyllo dough, olive oil, honey, and walnuts), this Greek dish is all about flavor! Imagine salty feta cheese baked in crispy phyllo dough, then drizzled with sweet honey and walnuts. It's more than a side – enjoy it as a last-minute appetizer, a light main, or a side dish! Simple ingredients, easy prep, and big impact – perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings.
What Is Phyllo Wrapped Feta?
Phyllo-wrapped Feta is a tasty appetizer that combines salty and sweet flavors in a simple yet elegant way. The dish is firmly rooted in Greek cuisine. Phyllo dough, a key ingredient, has been used in the region since the Byzantine era (330-1453 AD). Recipes featuring cheese wrapped in pastry can be traced back to ancient civilizations, making Phyllo-wrapped Feta a potential evolution of these earlier dishes. Similar cheese-in-pastry dishes exist worldwide. Spanakopita, another Greek favorite, features spinach and feta cheese encased in phyllo dough. In India, samosas are fried or baked pastries filled with savory ingredients, often featuring a potato and pea filling.
What is The Difference Between Greek, Bulgarian and Danish feta?
Greek feta, traditionally made from sheep's milk or a mixture of sheep's and goat's milk, is known for its crumbly texture and tangy, robust flavor. Bulgarian feta, also made primarily from sheep's milk, is creamier and smoother, with a slightly milder taste and a hint of saltiness. Danish feta, often produced from cow's milk, has a milder, creamier texture and a less tangy, more buttery flavor compared to its Greek and Bulgarian counterparts.
Tips
- Phyllo dough dries out quickly. Thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight, then let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before using. Keep unused sheets covered with a damp towel to prevent drying.
- Use a pastry brush to lightly coat each phyllo sheet with melted butter or olive oil. This creates a flaky texture and helps the layers adhere during baking. However, avoid over-brushing, as too much fat can make the phyllo soggy.
- Use high-quality feta cheese for the best flavor. Look for a block of feta from a reputable brand and avoid crumbled feta, which can be drier and less flavorful.
- Before wrapping, pat the feta cubes dry with paper towels. Excess moisture can prevent the phyllo from crisping properly.
- Ensure your oven is preheated to the recommended temperature before placing your phyllo parcels inside. This helps achieve that initial crisp on the outside.
- For a luxurious drizzle, warm your honey slightly before drizzling it over the baked feta. This makes it easier to spread and creates a beautiful, glossy finish.
- While honey is a classic pairing, feel free to experiment! Drizzle with balsamic reduction for a tangy twist, or sprinkle with sesame seeds or chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.
What Can I Serve With Phyllo-Wrapped Feta?
Enjoy it as an appetizer with crackers or pita bread, or serve it alongside a salad for a light lunch. It can also be part of a larger Meze platter with other Greek dips and spreads.
Can I Make Phyllo-Wrapped Feta Ahead Of Time?
You can assemble the feta parcels ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day. Bake them just before serving for the crispiest phyllo dough.
What Kind Of Feta Cheese Should I Use?
Look for a block of feta cheese from a reputable brand. Avoid crumbled feta, which can be drier and less flavorful.
Do I Have To Use Honey?
No! While honey is a classic topping, explore other options too! Drizzle with balsamic reduction for a tangy twist, or sprinkle with sesame seeds, chopped nuts, or a pinch of chili flakes for extra flavor and texture.
Can I Add Other Fillings To The Phyllo Dough?
Absolutely! Get creative! Explore chopped vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes, or experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese or mozzarella.
Can I Freeze Phyllo Wrapped Feta?
Yes you can! Assemble and freeze the unbaked pastries on a tray until solid, then transfer to a sealed container or freezer bag with parchment paper between layers. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time, for a ready-to-enjoy treat anytime.
More Feta Recipes For Your Appetizers
How To Store Phyllo Wrapped Feta
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for 10 minutes. Reheating them in the microwave will make them go soggy.
Ingredients
How To Make Phyllo-Wrapped Feta
Brush a sheet of phyllo dough with olive oil, coating it evenly.
Lay another sheet of phyllo dough on top of the seasoned one.
Place a block of feta cheese near one edge of the phyllo stack. Begin folding the phyllo dough over the feta, like a burrito, enclosing the cheese completely.
Tuck in the sides to create a sealed package.
Place the wrapped feta seam-side down on a baking sheet.
Drizzle a little olive oil on top for extra crispness. Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F) and bake the feta parcels for 15 minutes, or until the phyllo is golden brown and crispy.
Once baked, remove the feta from the oven and top it with chopped walnuts for a delightful textural contrast. Finally, drizzle with a touch of honey for a perfect sweet and savory balance.
