Halloumi Saganaki is a delightful Greek appetizer featuring the irresistible combination of crispy, golden-fried halloumi cheese drizzled with fresh lemon juice. This simple yet delicious dish is perfect for any occasion and can be prepared quickly with just a few ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (225g) halloumi cheese
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (optional, such as parsley or oregano) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Halloumi:
- Remove the halloumi cheese from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels.
- Cut the halloumi into 1/2-inch thick slices.
2. Coat the Halloumi:
- Place the flour on a plate or in a shallow bowl.
- Lightly dredge each slice of halloumi in the flour, shaking off any excess. This helps to create a crispy crust when fried.
3. Heat the Oil:
- In a large non-stick skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
4. Fry the Halloumi:
- Carefully place the floured halloumi slices in the hot skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Fry the halloumi for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to flip the slices gently to avoid breaking them.
5. Serve:
- Once the halloumi is fried, transfer it to a serving plate.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the hot halloumi slices to add brightness and acidity.
- Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
6. Enjoy:
- Serve the Halloumi Saganaki immediately while it’s hot and crispy.
- Enjoy it as an appetizer, snack, or part of a meze platter with other Greek dishes.
Serving Suggestions:
- Appetizer: Serve as an appetizer with warm pita bread or crusty bread.
- Meze Platter: Include as part of a meze platter with olives, tzatziki, hummus, and grilled vegetables.
- Salad Topper: Use the crispy halloumi as a topping for salads to add texture and flavor.
Cooking Tips:
- Temperature Control: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the halloumi to prevent it from becoming soggy. The cheese should sizzle immediately upon contact with the oil.
- Freshness: Serve the halloumi immediately after frying for the best texture and flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in under 15 minutes, making it perfect for a quick snack or last-minute appetizer.
- Deliciously Crispy: The combination of crispy exterior and soft, salty interior makes this dish irresistible.
- Versatile: Can be served on its own, as part of a meze platter, or with various accompaniments.
Conclusion:
Halloumi Saganaki is a simple yet mouthwatering dish that brings a taste of Greece to your table. With its crispy texture and savory flavor, enhanced by a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. Try this easy recipe and enjoy the delightful flavors of fried halloumi cheese!