Saganaki is a delightful Greek appetizer that features crispy, golden-brown fried cheese. It's a simple yet indulgent dish that pairs wonderfully with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Perfect for sharing, this dish brings a taste of Greece to your table.

The key ingredient in this recipe is kefalotyri or graviera cheese. These are traditional Greek cheeses that might not be commonly found in every household. When visiting the supermarket, look for these cheeses in the specialty cheese section or at a store that carries international products. If unavailable, you can substitute with halloumi or kasseri cheese.

Ingredients for Saganaki Greek Fried Cheese

Kefalotyri: A hard, salty Greek cheese made from sheep's milk, perfect for frying due to its high melting point.

Graviera cheese: A versatile Greek cheese with a slightly sweet and nutty flavor, also suitable for frying.

All-purpose flour: Used to coat the cheese slices, giving them a crispy exterior when fried.

Olive oil: Essential for frying the cheese to a golden brown perfection.

Technique Tip for This Greek Fried Cheese

Ensure the olive oil is hot enough before adding the cheese slices. A good way to test this is by sprinkling a tiny bit of flour into the oil; if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready. This will help achieve a perfectly crispy and golden crust on the cheese.

Suggested Side Dishes

Greek Salad: Imagine a vibrant Greek Salad bursting with ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and Kalamata olives. The feta cheese crumbles and oregano sprinkle would harmonize beautifully with the crispy, golden Saganaki. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a splash of red wine vinegar would elevate the freshness, making each bite a refreshing counterpoint to the rich, fried cheese.

Spanakopita: Picture a flaky Spanakopita with layers of buttery phyllo dough encasing a savory spinach and feta filling. The earthy spinach and tangy feta would create a delightful contrast to the creamy, melted Saganaki. The crispiness of the phyllo would echo the golden crust of the fried cheese, making for a textural symphony on your plate.

Tzatziki: Envision a cool, creamy Tzatziki sauce made from Greek yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, and a hint of dill. This refreshing dip would provide a perfect, tangy balance to the rich, salty Saganaki. The garlic and herbs would add layers of flavor, while the yogurt would offer a soothing, creamy texture that complements the crispy cheese.

Roasted Vegetables: Visualize a medley of roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and cherry tomatoes. These vegetables would be caramelized to perfection, their natural sweetness enhanced by a touch of olive oil and herbs. The robust flavors and slight char would pair wonderfully with the savory, golden Saganaki, creating a harmonious blend of tastes and textures.

Lemon Potatoes: Imagine Lemon Potatoes roasted to a golden brown, infused with the zesty brightness of lemon juice and the aromatic warmth of oregano. These potatoes would be crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, offering a delightful contrast to the creamy, fried Saganaki. The citrusy notes would cut through the richness of the cheese, making each bite a burst of flavor.

Alternative Ingredients

kefalotyri - Substitute with halloumi: Halloumi has a similar firm texture and salty flavor, making it an excellent alternative for frying.
kefalotyri - Substitute with feta: Feta can be used if you prefer a slightly tangier taste, though it may not hold its shape as well when fried.
graviera - Substitute with kasseri: Kasseri has a similar texture and mild flavor, making it a good substitute for graviera in fried cheese dishes.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can provide a crispier coating when frying cheese.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with rice flour: Rice flour is a great gluten-free alternative that also yields a crispy texture.
olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a high smoke point and neutral flavor, making it suitable for frying.
olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil is another high smoke point oil that works well for frying and has a neutral taste.

Other Recipes Similar to This Greek Fried Cheese

Spanakopita: Dive into the world of Greek cuisine with Spanakopita, a delightful spinach and feta cheese pie wrapped in crispy phyllo dough. Perfect for a savory snack or a light meal.

Tzatziki Sauce: Whip up a refreshing Tzatziki Sauce made with creamy Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, and a splash of lemon juice. Ideal as a dip or a condiment for grilled meats.

Moussaka: Indulge in the rich layers of Moussaka, a classic Greek casserole featuring eggplant, ground lamb, and a luscious béchamel sauce. A hearty dish that brings comfort and flavor.

Dolmades: Try your hand at making Dolmades, grape leaves stuffed with a savory mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes ground meat. These little parcels are a staple in Greek cuisine.

Baklava: Satisfy your sweet tooth with Baklava, a decadent dessert made with layers of phyllo dough, chopped nuts, and drenched in a fragrant honey syrup. A perfect end to any meal.

How to Store or Freeze This Dish

Allow the cheese to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the fried cheese soggy.
Place the cooled cheese slices in an airtight container. If stacking multiple layers, separate each layer with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Store the container in the refrigerator. The saganaki will keep well for up to 3 days.
For freezing, wrap each cheese slice individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This ensures they don't stick together and makes it easier to thaw only what you need.
Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw the cheese slices in the refrigerator overnight.
To reheat, preheat a frying pan over medium heat with a small amount of olive oil. Fry the thawed cheese slices until they are heated through and crispy again, about 1-2 minutes per side.
Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges for that authentic touch.

How to Reheat Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover saganaki on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is warmed through and slightly crispy.
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to the pan. Place the saganaki slices in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until warmed through and crispy.
Use an air fryer set to 350°F (175°C). Place the saganaki slices in the basket and cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.
For a quick microwave method, place the saganaki on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on medium power for 30-45 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
If you have a toaster oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the saganaki on a piece of aluminum foil or a small baking tray. Heat for 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is warmed and slightly crispy.

Best Tools for Making This Recipe

Knife: To cut the cheese into ½ inch thick slices.
Cutting board: A surface to safely cut the cheese on.
Shallow dish: To hold the flour for dredging the cheese slices.
Frying pan: To heat the olive oil and fry the cheese slices.
Tongs: To flip the cheese slices while frying.
Paper towels: To drain any excess oil from the fried cheese.
Serving plate: To serve the fried cheese slices immediately.
Lemon wedges: To garnish and add a fresh, tangy flavor to the dish.

How to Save Time on This Recipe

Pre-slice the cheese: Cut the kefalotyri or graviera cheese into ½ inch slices ahead of time and store them in the fridge.

Use a non-stick pan: A non-stick pan ensures even frying and makes cleanup quicker.

Preheat the oil: Heat the olive oil while you dredge the cheese to save time.

Lemon wedges ready: Have lemon wedges pre-cut and ready to serve immediately.

Saganaki (Greek Fried Cheese)

Delicious Greek fried cheese, perfect as an appetizer or snack.

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Preparation Time: 5

Cook Time: 5

Total Time: 10

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: Greek

Servings: servings

Calories: 300 kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 block kefalotyri or graviera cheese about 200g
½ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup olive oil
Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

Cut the cheese into ½ inch thick slices.
Dredge each slice in flour, shaking off any excess.
Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
Fry the cheese slices until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Nutritional Value

Keywords

Appetizer, Cheese, Fried

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Suggested Main Courses and Desserts for This Dish

Moussaka: Indulge in a rich and hearty Moussaka that layers eggplant, potatoes, and a savory meat sauce. Topped with a creamy béchamel sauce and baked to perfection, this dish is a comforting blend of flavors and textures. Serve it with a side of Greek salad for a complete meal that transports you straight to the Mediterranean.

Pastitsio: Experience the delightful Pastitsio, a Greek pasta bake that combines macaroni with a spiced meat sauce and a luscious béchamel topping. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, offering a satisfying and flavorful experience. Pair it with a glass of red wine and a simple green salad to elevate your dining experience.

Baklava: Imagine layers of phyllo dough brushed with melted butter, interspersed with a mixture of chopped nuts and cinnamon. Once baked to a golden perfection, the dessert is drenched in a syrup made from honey, sugar, and a hint of lemon juice. The result is a crispy, sweet, and nutty delight that pairs beautifully with a cup of Greek coffee.

Galaktoboureko: Envision a creamy semolina custard enveloped in layers of phyllo dough, baked until golden and crisp. Once out of the oven, the dessert is soaked in a citrus-infused syrup, allowing the flavors to meld together. The combination of the crunchy exterior and the smooth, custardy interior creates a textural contrast that is simply irresistible. Serve it warm or at room temperature for a comforting end to any meal.

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of cheese if I can't find kefalotyri or graviera?

Yes, you can use other firm cheeses like halloumi or kasseri as substitutes. Just make sure the cheese you choose can withstand frying without melting too much.

Do I need to use olive oil, or can I use another type of oil?

While olive oil adds a nice flavor, you can use other oils with a high smoke point like vegetable oil or canola oil.

How do I know when the cheese is done frying?

The cheese is done when it turns golden brown on both sides. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side.

Can I prepare saganaki in advance and reheat it later?

Saganaki is best served immediately while it's hot and crispy. Reheating can make it lose its texture and flavor.

What can I serve with saganaki?

Saganaki is often served with lemon wedges to squeeze over the top. You can also pair it with fresh bread, olives, or a simple salad.

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