Creamy Greek Saganaki with Lemon and Ouzo

Name: Creamy Greek Saganaki with Lemon and Ouzo
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Appetizer
Ingredients: 8 oz Kefalotyri or Graviera cheese; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 tablespoons ouzo; 1 lemon; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt to taste; Fresh parsley; Lemon wedges

Golden-crusted Cheese Appetizer with a Citrus and Anise Twist

Dive into a Greek classic with a modern twist. This dish combines crispy cheese with the refreshing tang of lemon and the aromatic touch of ouzo.

30 min
4
Easy

Ingredients

For the Cheese

8 oz Kefalotyri or Graviera cheese

sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

for dusting

2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Lemon-Ouzo Sauce

3 tablespoons ouzo

1 lemon

juiced and zested

2 tablespoons butter

1 tablespoon honey

Salt to taste

For Garnishing

Fresh parsley

chopped

Lemon wedges

Preparation

Preparing the Cheese

Dust the Cheese

Dust the sliced cheese with flour, shaking off any excess.

Use a high-quality Greek cheese like Kefalotyri or Graviera for an authentic experience.

Heat the Oil

Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.

Sear the Cheese

Sear the cheese slices until golden brown on both sides. Remove and set aside.

Making the Lemon-Ouzo Sauce

Simmer Ouzo

In the same pan, add ouzo and allow it to simmer for 1 minute.

Ensure alcohol in the ouzo cooks off before adding any additional ingredients.

Combine Ingredients

Mix in the lemon juice, zest, butter, and honey. Stir until smooth.

Season the Sauce

Season with salt to taste and remove from heat.

For a thicker sauce, let the mixture simmer a bit longer until reduced.

Cooking Process

Searing the Cheese

Heat should be medium to ensure a perfect crust without burning.

Preparing the Sauce

Simmer gently to blend the flavors without burning the butter.

Finishing Touches

Return the cheese to the pan briefly to warm through and absorb some sauce.

Plating & Serving