Albanian Baked Feta with Honey and Sesame Seeds
Introduction
Albanian Baked Feta with Honey and Sesame Seeds is a warm and delicious dish that is both simple and flavorful. This recipe combines the creamy texture of feta cheese with the sweetness of honey and the crunch of sesame seeds. It makes for a delightful appetizer or a perfect addition to a mezze platter.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make this recipe because it’s easy to prepare and requires only a few ingredients. The combination of flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser, whether you are hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night at home. Plus, it only takes about 20 minutes from start to finish!
How to Make Albanian Baked Feta with Honey and Sesame Seeds
Ingredients:
- 1 block feta cheese (about 200–250g)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (white or a mix of white and black)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Place the block of feta cheese in a small baking dish.
- Drizzle honey over the feta.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds on top of the feta and honey.
- Drizzle olive oil over everything.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is warmed through and slightly golden.
- Serve warm with crusty bread or as a part of a mezze platter.
How to Serve Albanian Baked Feta with Honey and Sesame Seeds
Serve this dish warm straight from the oven. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, which is perfect for scooping up the creamy feta and sweet honey. You can also include it on a mezze platter, along with olives, fresh vegetables, and other dips for a beautiful and diverse spread.
How to Store Albanian Baked Feta with Honey and Sesame Seeds
If you have leftovers, let them cool down to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it back in the oven until warmed through, but be careful not to overcook it again.
Tips to Make Albanian Baked Feta with Honey and Sesame Seeds
- Use high-quality feta cheese for the best flavor.
- You can mix the sesame seeds with some crushed nuts for extra crunch.
- If you like a bit of spice, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking.
Variation
For a different flavor, try adding fresh herbs like thyme or oregano on top of the feta before baking. You can also substitute the honey with maple syrup for a unique twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can try using goat cheese or a soft cream cheese if you prefer.
2. Is it okay to use pre-crumbled feta?
While it’s better to use a block of feta for baking, pre-crumbled feta will work in a pinch. Just be mindful of baking time, as it may cook more quickly.
3. Can this recipe be made in advance?
It’s best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but you can prepare it ahead of time by assembling the ingredients and storing them in the fridge. Just bake it right before serving!
Enjoy making and sharing this warm and tasty dish – Albanian Baked Feta with Honey and Sesame Seeds is sure to impress!
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Albanian Baked Feta with Honey and Sesame Seeds
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A warm and delicious dish combining creamy feta cheese with honey and crunchy sesame seeds, perfect as an appetizer or mezze platter addition.
Ingredients
- 1 block feta cheese (about 200–250g)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (white or a mix of white and black)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Place the block of feta cheese in a small baking dish.
- Drizzle honey over the feta.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds on top of the feta and honey.
- Drizzle olive oil over everything.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is warmed through and slightly golden.
- Serve warm with crusty bread or as a part of a mezze platter.
Notes
Use high-quality feta cheese for the best flavor. Consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of spice.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Albanian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: feta cheese, appetizer, baked feta, honey, sesame seeds, Albanian cuisine, mezze platter
