Saganaki Greek Fried Cheese Squares
Crispy, golden, and irresistibly indulgent, Saganaki Greek Fried Cheese Squares are a quintessential appetizer that brings authentic Mediterranean flavors straight to your table. Made with kefalotyri or graviera cheese—Halloumi as a delightful substitute—this quick and easy recipe transforms creamy cheese into crisp, pan-fried perfection with the simplest of ingredients: flour, olive oil, and a refreshing squeeze of lemon for a zesty finish. Ready in just 15 minutes, Saganaki offers an unbeatable combination of rich, salty cheesiness and crunchy exterior, perfect for pairing with warm pita or crusty bread. Whether served as a crowd-pleasing starter or a savory snack, this classic Greek dish is sure to become a favorite addition to your culinary repertoire.
Log this recipe in SnapCalorie
Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 200 grams kefalotyri or graviera cheese (or halloumi as a substitute)
- 50 grams all-purpose flour
- 60 ml olive oil
- 1 whole lemon
- 2 tbsp water
Instructions
1. Cut the cheese into 1 cm thick squares or rectangular slices, approximately 5 cm long.
2. In a shallow bowl, add the water. Lightly dampen each piece of cheese by quickly dipping it into the water.
3. Dredge each dampened piece of cheese in the flour, coating all sides evenly. Shake off any excess flour.
4. Heat the olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking.
5. Carefully place the floured cheese squares into the pan. Do not overcrowd the pan; fry in batches if necessary.
6. Cook each side for about 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Flip carefully using a spatula or tongs.
7. Once cooked, transfer the cheese to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
8. Squeeze fresh lemon juice generously over the fried cheese squares just before serving.
9. Serve immediately while hot and crispy. Enjoy your homemade Saganaki with warm pita or bread on the side!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1510 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 123.5 g | 158% | |
| Saturated Fat | 52.9 g | 264% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 5.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 200 mg | 67% | |
| Sodium | 2403 mg | 104% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 45.6 g | 17% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.0 g | 11% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.6 g | ||
| Protein | 55.8 g | 112% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.0 mcg | 5% | |
| Calcium | 1422 mg | 109% | |
| Iron | 3.4 mg | 19% | |
| Potassium | 334 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.
