Grilled feta cheese

Grilled Feta Cheese – A Savory Delight!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

I invite you to discover a simple yet delicious recipe that will bring a touch of sunshine to your table! Grilled feta cheese is an ideal dish for a light dinner, an elegant appetizer, or a side for a summer meal. This dish is not only tasty but also full of flavor, thanks to the combination of fresh and aromatic ingredients.

The history of feta cheese is fascinating. This cheese, with a creamy texture and salty taste, has been consumed for thousands of years, being associated with Mediterranean meals. Over time, feta cheese has been appreciated not only for its intense flavor but also for its versatility, as it can be used in various dishes, from salads to pies and, of course, grilled.

Ingredients:
- 200 g feta cheese (choose a quality variant, preferably made from goat's milk for a stronger taste)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (or fresh, if available)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced thinly
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste (optional)

Nutritional information (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 250 kcal
- Protein: 8 g
- Fat: 22 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
Feta cheese is an excellent source of calcium and protein, while the vegetables provide important vitamins and antioxidants.

Preparation technique:
1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by washing all the vegetables well. Slice the bell pepper and tomato thinly. The feta cheese should be cut into finger-thick slices so it melts evenly on the grill.

2. Assemble the packets: On a large piece of aluminum foil, pour a little olive oil. Place the slices of bell pepper and tomato, then put the slices of feta cheese over the vegetables. Sprinkle the dried basil and thyme, and if desired, add salt and pepper to taste.

3. Wrap the packets: Fold the aluminum foil around the ingredients, ensuring there are no holes for steam to escape. The packets should be well sealed to retain the flavors.

4. Preheat the grill: Heat the grill to medium temperature. You can use a charcoal grill or an electric one, depending on your preference.

5. Cook the packets: Place the foil packets on the grill and let them cook for 10 minutes on each side. Make sure to turn them carefully to avoid breaking them.

6. Serve hot: After they are done, carefully open the packets, being cautious of the hot steam that will escape. You can serve them as they are or alongside a fresh salad, toasted bread, or even with a serving of garlic sauce, which will add extra flavor.

Practical tips:
- If you want a more intense flavor, you can marinate the feta cheese in olive oil with herbs a day before.
- Instead of bell pepper, you can experiment with zucchini or mushrooms to add more textures and flavors.
- If you want to impress your guests, you can serve this grilled feta cheese with a yogurt sauce with mint or a fresh tomato salsa.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use salty feta cheese? Yes, but make sure to rinse it beforehand to reduce the saltiness.
- Can I prepare the packets in advance? Yes, you can prepare them a few hours ahead and keep them cool, just put them on the grill before serving.
- What can these packets be paired with? They go wonderfully with a dry white wine, a fresh lemon squeezed over, or alongside a Greek salad.

This grilled feta cheese recipe is perfect for enjoying on summer evenings with loved ones. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it will bring a smile to anyone who tries it. So let’s enjoy authentic flavors and unforgettable moments in the kitchen!