Saganaki Greek Cheese
User Reviews
5
Saganaki Greek Cheese
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.
Ingredients
- 1 block kefalotyri cheese see notes
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon juice of
Instructions
- Dredge the block of cheese in flour and make sure every inch is well coated.
- Heat up the olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium high heat.
- 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.
- 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 DetailsNutrition 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.