Fried Saganaki: Greek Fried Cheese Delight

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fried Saganaki is one of those dishes that’s hard to resist—crispy, golden, and cheesy. The contrast between the crunchy exterior and melty cheese inside is what makes this dish so irresistible. It’s quick to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is packed with flavor. Whether you’re enjoying it as an appetizer, a snack, or even paired with a glass of wine, Fried Saganaki offers a taste of Greece in every bite. The addition of lemon brightens the dish and balances the richness, making it even more satisfying.

Ingredients

• 200-250g kefalograviera, kasseri, or graviera cheese (or a firm cheese of your choice)
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil for frying)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (for serving)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Slice the cheese into thick slices, about ½ inch thick. You want the cheese slices to be firm enough to hold together during frying.
2. Set up a breading station by placing the flour in one shallow dish and the beaten egg in another.
3. Dredge each cheese slice first in the flour, making sure to coat it evenly, then dip it in the beaten egg, coating it completely.
4. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (you can test by dropping a small bit of flour in the oil—if it sizzles, it’s ready), carefully add the cheese slices to the pan.
5. Fry the cheese slices for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove the cheese from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. Serve immediately while still hot, drizzling with fresh lemon juice and garnishing with fresh parsley if desired. Serve with extra lemon wedges on the side.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2-4
• Preparation time: 5 minutes
• Cooking time: 6-8 minutes
• Total time: 10-15 minutes

Variations

• Add honey: For a sweet and savory twist, drizzle some honey over the fried cheese. It adds a lovely contrast to the saltiness of the cheese.
• Spicy version: Sprinkle some chili flakes on the cheese before frying for an added kick of heat.
• Herb variations: You can add dried oregano or thyme on top of the cheese before frying to give it a more herbal flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Fried Saganaki is best served immediately, as the crispy coating tends to soften once it cools down. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the cheese in a hot pan for a few minutes to crisp up the exterior again. Avoid microwaving as it will make the cheese soggy.

FAQs

What type of cheese is best for Fried Saganaki?

Kefalograviera, kasseri, and graviera are the most traditional Greek cheeses used for Saganaki. These cheeses are firm enough to hold up during frying and have a nice balance of saltiness and creaminess. If you can’t find these cheeses, you can substitute with any firm, salty cheese like halloumi or even mozzarella.

Can I use any other type of cheese for Saganaki?

While kefalograviera and kasseri are the most authentic, you can experiment with other firm cheeses like halloumi, provolone, or even a mild cheddar for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the cheese you use is firm enough to withstand frying.

Can I make Fried Saganaki ahead of time?

Fried Saganaki is best enjoyed fresh and hot to retain its crispy texture. However, you can prepare the cheese slices in advance and refrigerate them, then fry them just before serving.

How do I know when the cheese is ready?

The cheese should be golden brown and crispy on both sides. You can test a slice by cutting it open—if it’s soft and melty inside, it’s done. Don’t overcook, as it can cause the cheese to become too liquidy.

Can I make Fried Saganaki in the oven?

While Fried Saganaki is traditionally fried in a pan, you can bake it in the oven. Place the breaded cheese on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until golden and crispy. This method won’t give you the exact same texture but is a healthier alternative.

Can I make Fried Saganaki without egg?

Yes, if you want to make the dish egg-free, you can skip the egg and use milk or a dairy-free substitute as the dipping liquid. You may need to add a bit more flour to help the coating stick.

Can I fry Saganaki in olive oil?

Yes, olive oil is the traditional choice for frying Saganaki and adds great flavor. Just make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the cheese to get a crispy exterior.

Can I serve Fried Saganaki with other dips?

While Fried Saganaki is traditionally served with lemon, you can pair it with other dips like tzatziki, honey, or even a spicy tomato salsa for added flavor.

How can I prevent the cheese from melting too much while frying?

Use a firm cheese that can withstand the heat, and make sure your oil is hot enough before frying. This will help the cheese hold its shape and prevent it from melting too quickly.

What can I serve with Fried Saganaki?

Fried Saganaki is often served as an appetizer, but it also pairs well with a fresh Greek salad, grilled vegetables, or pita bread. You can also serve it as part of a larger Mediterranean meze platter.

Conclusion

Fried Saganaki is a simple yet indulgent dish that brings the flavors of Greece straight to your table. Its crispy, golden exterior and creamy, melty cheese interior make it a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a Greek-inspired dinner, or simply craving a delicious snack, Fried Saganaki is sure to impress. Quick and easy to make, this dish will transport you to the sun-drenched shores of Greece with every bite.

Fried Saganaki: Greek Fried Cheese Delight

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Fried Saganaki is a classic Greek appetizer featuring cheese, usually kefalograviera or kasseri, fried to a crispy golden exterior while remaining warm and creamy inside. It’s often served with lemon juice, making it a perfect starter or snack.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 minutes
• Total Time: 10-15 minutes
• Yield: 2-4 servings
• Category: Appetizer, Snack
• Method: Fried
• Cuisine: Greek
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

1. 200–250g kefalograviera, kasseri, or graviera cheese (or a firm cheese of your choice)
2. ½ cup all-purpose flour
3. 1 egg, beaten
4. 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil for frying)
5. 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (for serving)
6. Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
7. Lemon wedges (for serving)

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Instructions

Slice the cheese into thick slices, about ½ inch thick. Ensure the slices are firm enough to hold together during frying.

1. Set up a breading station by placing the flour in one shallow dish and the beaten egg in another.
2. Dredge each cheese slice first in the flour, coating it evenly, then dip it in the beaten egg, ensuring it’s completely coated.
3. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Test the oil by dropping a small bit of flour—if it sizzles, the oil is ready.
4. Carefully add the cheese slices to the pan and fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove the fried cheese from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
6. Serve immediately while still hot, drizzling with fresh lemon juice and garnishing with parsley if desired. Serve with extra lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

• Fried Saganaki is best served immediately to maintain its crispy texture.
• If you want a sweet and savory contrast, drizzle honey over the fried cheese.
• For a spicier version, sprinkle chili flakes before frying the cheese.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1-2 days, though the crispiness will diminish. Reheat in a hot pan for a few minutes.
• You can use any firm, salty cheese such as halloumi or provolone if you can’t find the traditional Greek cheeses.
• If you prefer, you can bake the Saganaki at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, though the texture may be slightly different.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 45mg