Introduction and Overview
What are Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey?
Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey are crispy, savory bites filled with tangy feta cheese, wrapped in phyllo dough, and baked until golden brown. The rolls are then drizzled with a sweet and spicy chili honey glaze, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. This dish offers a delightful combination of crispy, flaky phyllo, creamy feta, and a sticky, spicy-sweet sauce, making it an ideal appetizer or snack for any occasion.
A Mediterranean-Inspired Appetizer with a Kick
Inspired by Mediterranean flavors, these oven-baked rolls are lighter than traditional fried rolls but just as satisfying. The combination of feta and chili honey creates a flavor explosion that pairs beautifully with the crispy phyllo pastry, making them a crowd-pleaser at parties, family gatherings, or as a snack.
Ingredients and Nutritional Benefits
Main Ingredients
Feta Cheese
Feta cheese is a salty, tangy cheese that adds a creamy texture and bold flavor to the rolls. It’s lower in fat than many other cheeses and provides a good source of calcium and protein.
Phyllo Dough
Phyllo dough is thin, flaky pastry dough that crisps up beautifully when baked. It’s used in many Mediterranean dishes and adds a light, crunchy texture to the rolls.
Honey
Honey provides natural sweetness to the chili honey glaze, which contrasts with the salty feta. It’s a natural sweetener packed with antioxidants and has antibacterial properties.
Chili Flakes
Chili flakes add heat to the honey glaze, balancing out the sweetness and creating a delicious spicy-sweet combination.
Nutritional Benefits
Feta Cheese: High in Calcium and Protein
Feta is a good source of calcium, which is essential for bone health, and protein, which is necessary for muscle repair. It’s also rich in B vitamins and phosphorus.
Honey: A Natural Sweetener with Antioxidants
Honey is a natural source of antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. It also contains small amounts of vitamins and minerals, making it a better choice than refined sugar.
Phyllo Dough: Low in Calories
Phyllo dough is lower in fat and calories compared to puff pastry or pie dough, making it a lighter option for these crispy rolls.
Preparation and Variations
Basic Recipe
Ingredients List
To make Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey, you’ll need:
- 8 ounces crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons freshly chopped dill
- 1 clove garlic, grated
- 18 sheets frozen phyllo dough, thawed
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, plus more for brushing
- 1 tablespoon salted butter
- 1 ½ teaspoons chili flakes
- ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
- ⅓ cup honey
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Feta Mixture: In a bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, freshly chopped dill, and grated garlic. Set aside.
- Assemble the Rolls: Lay out a sheet of phyllo dough on a clean surface and fold it in half. Brush the edges lightly with olive oil. Spoon some of the feta mixture onto one end of the folded phyllo sheet, then roll it up tightly, tucking in the sides as you roll. Place the roll seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat this process for all the rolls.
- Bake the Rolls: Brush the tops of the rolls with more olive oil and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and crispy.
- Prepare Chili Honey Sauce: While the rolls are baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the olive oil, chili flakes, and cumin seeds, stirring until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in the honey.
- Serve: Serve the warm feta rolls with the chili honey sauce for dipping, and enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness with a touch of sweet heat!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 18 rolls
Calories per Serving: 130 kcal
Recipe Variations
Spinach and Feta Rolls
Add some finely chopped spinach to the feta filling for a more classic Mediterranean-inspired dish. The spinach adds a pop of color and extra nutrients.
Goat Cheese and Feta Rolls
For a tangier filling, mix feta cheese with creamy goat cheese. The combination of the two cheeses creates a richer, more decadent filling.
Vegan Feta Rolls
Use a vegan feta cheese alternative and brush the phyllo with a plant-based butter or oil to make these rolls vegan. You can also use maple syrup instead of honey for the glaze.
Herbed Feta Rolls
Add fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or dill to the feta filling for a burst of flavor. The herbs complement the feta and give the rolls a more aromatic taste.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Serving Suggestions
As an Appetizer
These feta rolls are perfect as an appetizer for dinner parties or family gatherings. Arrange them on a platter and drizzle them with the chili honey for a stunning presentation.
With a Salad
Serve the rolls with a light Greek salad or a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the feta and the sweetness of the honey.
For a Snack
These rolls also make a great snack. Prepare them in advance and reheat them in the oven for a quick bite during the day.
Pairing Ideas
With White Wine
Pair these feta rolls with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. The acidity in the wine cuts through the richness of the cheese and complements the sweetness of the honey.
With Sparkling Water
For a non-alcoholic option, serve the rolls with sparkling water flavored with lemon or lime. The bubbles and citrus notes refresh the palate between bites.
With Iced Tea
Iced tea, especially unsweetened black or green tea, pairs well with the sweet and spicy notes of the chili honey and balances the richness of the feta.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the feta rolls and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Brush them with olive oil just before baking. You can also freeze the unbaked rolls for up to 3 months.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to restore their crispiness before serving.
Can I use puff pastry instead of phyllo dough?
Yes, puff pastry will give you a more buttery, flaky result, but the rolls will be thicker and denser. If using puff pastry, follow the same instructions for filling and rolling.
How do I prevent phyllo dough from drying out?
Phyllo dough can dry out quickly. To prevent this, cover the unused sheets with a damp kitchen towel while you’re assembling the rolls.
Can I make the chili honey glaze less spicy?
If you prefer a milder glaze, reduce the amount of chili flakes or leave them out altogether. You can also add more lemon juice to balance the sweetness and create a tangy glaze.
Conclusion
Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey are a perfect blend of crispy, creamy, sweet, and spicy flavors. With their golden phyllo crust, tangy feta filling, and sticky chili honey glaze, these rolls make an irresistible appetizer or snack for any occasion. Whether served at a party, alongside a salad, or as a quick snack, these feta rolls are sure to become a favorite!