Lemon Herb Grilled Feta Cheese with Pita Bread
Recipe: #10356
August 21, 2013
Categories: Side Dishes, Cheese, Feta, Lemon, Appetizers, Greek, Italian, 5-Minute Prep, Baby Shower, Game/Sports Day, July 4th Labor Day, Grilling (Outdoor), Oven Bake, No Eggs, Vegetarian, more
"This is a perfect dish to serve as an appetizer; or, great as a side dish along side dinner. It is quick to prepare, minutes to cook; and, only a few ingredients. One important note; fresh herbs are really a must for this. On the side, grilled pita bread. And, sometimes, I make a simple garnish of diced olives, tomatoes, and arugula or spinach; it makes a nice topping, or a little on the side. That is completely optional, but tasty."
Ingredients
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- CHEESE
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- Garnish:
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Nutritional
- Serving Size: 1 (73.4 g)
- Calories 160.1
- Total Fat - 11.3 g
- Saturated Fat - 5.4 g
- Cholesterol - 23.8 mg
- Sodium - 309.4 mg
- Total Carbohydrate - 3.9 g
- Dietary Fiber - 1.1 g
- Sugars - 0.9 g
- Protein - 11.9 g
- Calcium - 408.8 mg
- Iron - 1.2 mg
- Vitamin C - 14.4 mg
- Thiamin - 0 mg
Step by Step Method
Step 1
Feta ... This step isn't necessary, but I really like the flavor it adds, and the way it looks. This is optional. I like to grill the Feta, on 1 side, directly on the grates to get some grill marks. So, the best way to do this, is to start with Feta, that has been on the counter for 10-15 minutes to take the chill off. You don't want it ice cold; but, not room temp either. Then, brush 1 side of the feta with olive oil, and also brush a small spot on your grill. Using tongs or a large spatula, add the Feta directly to a HOT grill, for just 30 seconds to get some grill marks, keep an eye on it. Then, remove the cheese; and, add it to sheet of aluminum foil, lightly brushed with olive oil, the grill mark side up. I also like to use heavy duty foil, or 2 sheets. Grilling the Feta isn't necessary; but, I think it adds a nice char flavor, also, it just looks really pretty.
Step 2
If you don't grill the Feta, follow all the other instructions. The Feta should set on the counter for 10-15 minutes; you want to place it on foil lightly brushed with oil; and, I like to use heavy duty foil, or 2 sheets.
Step 3
Then, drizzle the Feta with olive oil, and top with the fresh herbs, and loosely wrap up the cheese. Place on the grill, medium heat. I usually have one side on high heat, and the other on medium. Let the cheese cook a good 15-20 minutes.
Step 4
Note: This can also be done in a 375 degree oven.
Step 5
Pita Bread ... As the cheese cooks, grill up the pita bread. I lightly brush with olive oil. Grill lightly on both sides, then cut into wedges.
Step 6
Finish and Serve ... I prefer to serve this right in the foil pouch. Squeeze a lemon wedge over the cheese, and finish with fresh ground pepper. Place on a serving platter, and garnish with fresh herb sprigs, extra lemon wedges; and, plenty of grilled pita wedges.
Step 7
Optional Salad ... it you want to make it a bit heartier. Add diced tomatoes, chopped olives, and chopped arugula or spinach to a small bowl, squeeze a little lemon over the top; and, top your cheese, or set to the side in a small bowl, for people to add.
Step 8
Serve and ENJOY! ... It makes a fantastic easy appetizer; but, it is also great to serve as a side dish along side dinner. Grill up some chicken or steak, and a few vegetable kabobs, and you have a nice summer dinner. Skip the steak or chicken; and add a fresh salad, for a nice vegetarian dinner.
Tips
No special items needed.