Description
This caramelized feta with chili-honey recipe is an irresistible and easy appetizer featuring creamy feta seared to golden perfection, drizzled with a spicy-sweet honey glaze, and topped with toasted walnuts and fresh herbs. Perfect to serve warm alongside pita, flatbread, or crusty bread for a delightful starter that balances savory, sweet, and spicy flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 block feta cheese (150–200 g), drained
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 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
- Warm pita, flatbread, or crusty bread for serving
Instructions
- Toast Walnuts: In a dry pan over medium heat, toast the roughly chopped walnuts for 3 to 4 minutes until they turn golden and emit a fragrant aroma. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Prepare Chili-Honey Sauce: In a small saucepan, gently warm the honey, chili flakes, and lemon juice over low heat until the mixture starts to bubble softly. Remove from heat and keep the sauce warm for drizzling.
- Pat Feta Dry: Using a paper towel, pat the block of feta cheese dry to remove excess moisture, which will help achieve a better sear.
- Sear Feta: Heat the olive oil in a nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Place the feta in the skillet and sear each side for 2 to 3 minutes until the surface is golden and slightly crispy.
- Caramelize with Honey: While the feta remains in the skillet, carefully pour the warm chili-honey mixture over it. Allow the honey to sizzle and begin to caramelize around and on top of the cheese.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the toasted walnuts, fresh herbs if using, and cracked black pepper over the caramelized feta. Serve immediately with warm pita, flatbread, or crusty bread for dipping.
Notes
- You can adjust the chili flakes quantity to control the spiciness of the dish.
- Fresh thyme or rosemary adds an aromatic herbal note but is optional.
- Use a cast-iron skillet for better heat retention and even searing.
- Serve immediately while the feta is warm and the honey glaze is gooey for the best taste experience.
- For a nut-free version, omit the walnuts.
