Saganaki Greek Cheese

User Reviews

5

10 reviews
Excellent
  • Prep Time

    5 mins

  • Cook Time

    10 mins

  • Total Time

    15 mins

  • Servings

    6

  • Calories

    55 kcal

  • Cuisine

    Greek

Saganaki Greek Cheese

Saganaki Greek Cheese features a block of kefalotyri (or similar) cheese dredged in flour and pan-fried until golden with a crisp crust and melted interior. Finished with a squeeze of lemon juice, it offers a rich, salty, and tangy bite that highlights the distinctive flavor of the cheese. This simple preparation makes for a warm, satisfying appetizer or snack.

Description

This dish begins with kefalotyri cheese, a firm Greek cheese suitable for frying without melting away. The cheese is fully coated in all-purpose flour, which creates a crispy crust when fried in olive oil. Heating the pan until the oil shimmers ensures an even golden crust without burning. Frying on medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes per side yields a crunchy exterior enclosing a warm, soft interior.

Splashing lemon juice over the hot cheese balances its saltiness and richness with brightness and mild acidity. Saganaki is best served immediately while the cheese remains warm and the crust crisp, preserving its creamy texture inside. It is typically enjoyed on its own or with a wedge of lemon on the side.

Using a non-stick pan helps prevent sticking and breakage, while selecting an appropriate cheese such as kefalotyri, graviera, or pecorino ensures the cheese holds form during frying. Preheating the skillet properly is essential to achieve the characteristic crunchy exterior without overcooking.

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Ingredients

Servings
  • 1 block kefalotyri cheese see notes
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lemon juice of

Instructions

  1. Dredge the block of cheese in flour and make sure every inch is well coated.
  2. Heat up the olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium high heat.
  3. Once the oil is hot and shimmery, place the cheese in the pan and lower the heat to medium. Fry for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden.
  4. Top with lemon juice and serve right away.

Notes

  • Kefalotyri, graviera, or pecorino cheeses are suitable for saganaki frying and should be firm enough to hold shape.
  • Ensure the pan and olive oil are well heated before frying to achieve a crispy golden crust.
  • Add lemon juice just before serving to balance the cheese’s saltiness with acidity.
  • Serve the fried cheese immediately to enjoy the contrast of a crunchy exterior and warm, soft interior.

Nutrition Information

Show Details
Calories 55kcal (3%) Carbohydrates 3g (1%) Protein 0.4g (1%) Fat 5g (8%) Saturated Fat 1g (5%) Polyunsaturated Fat 1g (6%) Monounsaturated Fat 3g (15%) Sodium 0.2mg (0%) Potassium 4mg (0%) Fiber 0.1g (0%) Sugar 0.01g (0%) Calcium 1mg (0%) Iron 0.2mg (1%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 6Serving

Amount Per Serving

Calories 55 kcal

% Daily Value*

Calories 55kcal 3%
Carbohydrates 3g 1%
Protein 0.4g 1%
Fat 5g 8%
Saturated Fat 1g 5%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1g 6%
Monounsaturated Fat 3g 15%
Sodium 0.2mg 0%
Potassium 4mg 0%
Fiber 0.1g 0%
Sugar 0.01g 0%
Calcium 1mg 0%
Iron 0.2mg 1%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

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