Herb-Crusted Saganaki Bites with Tomato Relish
Herb-Crusted Saganaki Bites with Tomato Relish
Classic DishSaganaki
Prep: 15 min • Cook: 10 min. Crispy cubes of herb-crusted halloumi are pan-fried until golden and served with a bright cherry-tomato relish, creating a contrast of salty, crunchy cheese and fresh, acidic tomatoes ideal as an appetizer or meze.
- Preparation time
- 15 min
- Cooking time
- 10 min
- Total time
- 25 min
- Servings
- 24
Instructions
Make the tomato relish
- 1Place halved cherry tomatoes in a bowl, add chopped parsley, dried oregano, 1 tbsp olive oil, salt and pepper.
- 2Toss gently and let the relish sit at room temperature while you prepare the cheese to allow flavors to meld.
Coat and fry the saganaki bites
- 1Pat halloumi cubes very dry with paper towels to remove moisture so coating adheres.
- 2Set up a dredging station: flour in one bowl, beaten egg in a second, and breadcrumb-herb mixture (breadcrumbs plus a pinch of salt and 1/2 tsp dried oregano) in a third.
- 3Coat each halloumi cube in flour, shake off excess, dip in egg, then press into the breadcrumb mixture to fully coat.
- 4Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- 5Fry the coated cubes in batches, not crowding the pan, 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp. Transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate.
Finish and serve
- 1Warm the tomato relish briefly in its bowl if desired or keep at room temperature for freshness.
- 2Arrange saganaki bites on a serving plate, spoon the tomato relish alongside or over the bites, sprinkle extra parsley and lemon zest.
- 3Serve immediately with lemon wedges for squeezing and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Nutrition Information
- Calories
- 96 kcal
- Protein
- 5 g
- Fat
- 6 g
- Carbs
- 5 g
| Nutrient | Per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 96 kcal |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Carbs | 5 g |
Tips
- Pat halloumi very dry and chill 10 minutes to help it hold shape when coating and frying.
- Use a hot skillet and fry in batches without crowding to ensure fast browning and a crisp crust.
- Serve saganaki bites immediately with lemon wedges to cut the richness and highlight flavors.
