Description
Caramelized Feta with Chili-Honey is a quick and irresistible appetizer featuring feta cheese seared to golden perfection and topped with a luscious blend of warm honey, spicy chili flakes, and toasted walnuts. This easy recipe combines savory, sweet, and spicy flavors, finished with fresh herbs and served alongside warm pita or crusty bread for a perfect bite every time.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese and Oil
- 1 block feta cheese (150–200 g), drained
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce and Toppings
- 4 tablespoons honey
- ½ to 1 teaspoon chili flakes (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons walnuts, roughly chopped
- Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
- Cracked black pepper
To Serve
- Warm pita, flatbread, or crusty bread
Instructions
- Toast Walnuts: Toast the roughly chopped walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently until they are golden and emit a fragrant aroma. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Prepare Chili-Honey Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the honey, chili flakes, and lemon juice. Warm the mixture over low heat until it gently bubbles. Remove from heat and keep the sauce warm for later use.
- Pat Feta Dry: Using paper towels, pat the feta block dry to remove excess moisture for better searing.
- Sear Feta: Heat olive oil in a nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the feta in the pan and sear each side for 2 to 3 minutes, or until each side turns a beautiful golden brown crust.
- Caramelize Feta with Chili-Honey: With the feta still in the skillet, pour the warm chili-honey sauce carefully over the cheese. Allow it to sizzle and begin to caramelize around the edges, enhancing the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the toasted walnuts over the caramelized feta. Add fresh thyme or rosemary if desired, and finish with cracked black pepper. Serve immediately with warm pita, flatbread, or crusty bread to scoop up the delicious mixture.
Notes
- Adjust the chili flakes according to your preferred heat level.
- Use a nonstick or cast-iron skillet for best searing results.
- If preferred, substitute walnuts with other nuts like pistachios or almonds.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the feta warm and melty.
- This appetizer pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or light rosé.
