Golden, crispy, and utterly indulgent, Saganaki Fried Cheese Greek Style is the ultimate appetizer to transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean. Made with authentic Greek cheeses like Kasseri, Kefalotyri, or Graviera, this dish features a perfectly pan-fried crust encasing a warm, gooey interior. A light flour coating and precise frying technique create a rich golden hue, while a drizzle of fresh lemon juice adds a zesty touch. Garnished with fresh parsley and served with crusty bread or pita, this quick-to-make dish, ready in just 15 minutes, is a showstopping starter for any gathering. Perfect for lovers of Greek cuisine and cheese enthusiasts alike, this recipe is a must-try for a taste of traditional meze.
Cut the cheese into a block roughly 1-inch thick and about 4 inches long. Pat it dry completely with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
Spread the all-purpose flour evenly on a plate. Lightly coat the cheese block in the flour, ensuring all sides are covered. Shake off any excess flour.
In a small bowl, combine the cold water with a few drops of lemon juice (optional for binding) and lightly wet the floured cheese on all sides. Then coat it again with a second layer of flour. This helps to create a nice crust.
Heat the olive oil in a medium-sized frying pan over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot but not smoking, around 180°C (350°F).
Carefully place the floured cheese block into the hot oil. Fry for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until the exterior is golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to gently lift and flip the cheese to cook evenly.
Once the cheese is golden and melted inside, remove it from the pan and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Place the fried cheese on a serving plate. Squeeze fresh lemon juice generously over the top and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Serve immediately with crusty bread or pita slices on the side for dipping. Enjoy this classic Greek appetizer warm!
Calories |
1692 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 137.8 g | 177% | |
| Saturated Fat | 62.5 g | 312% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 5.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 223 mg | 74% | |
| Sodium | 1790 mg | 78% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 52.5 g | 19% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.0 g | 11% | |
| Total Sugars | 1.6 g | ||
| Protein | 68.3 g | 137% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.3 mcg | 7% | |
| Calcium | 1811 mg | 139% | |
| Iron | 3.9 mg | 22% | |
| Potassium | 315 mg | 7% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.