Skip to main content

Classic Saganaki with Olives and Lemon

4.4

(21)

Ouzeries are Greek cafés that specialize in mezedes, or appetizers, as well as in ouzo, the strong, anise-tinged drink after which the cafés are named. Saganaki gets its name from the two-handled pan in which it is made, but it can be prepared in any heavy small skillet. For a final flourish, the cheese is often splashed with ouzo and flamed.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    Makes 4-6 servings

Ingredients

1 8-ounce package kasseri cheese or Pecorino Romano, cut into 1/2-inch-thick rectangular slices
All purpose flour
3 tablespoons (about) olive oil
1/2 lemon
1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
tomato wedges
pita wedges
Kalamata olives

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Rinse cheese slices under cold water (do not pat dry). Coat with flour. Heat oil in heavy large skillet over medium-high heat until almost smoking. Add cheese and cook until beginning to brown, about 1 minutes per side. Transfer to plates.

    Step 2

    Squeeze lemon over cheese; sprinkle with oregano and pepper. Serve with tomatoes, pita and olives.

Read More
Like a cucumber-cilantro chutney sandwich and scallop piccata.
A veg-forward main or gets-along-with-everyone side.
A warmly spiced Ashkenazi charoset, perfect for your Passover seder—or spooned over yogurt the next morning.
Keep this easy frittata recipe on hand for quick breakfasts, impressive brunches, and fridge clean-out meals.
Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.
Like airy lemon chiffon cake and a Cadbury egg–inspired tart.
Dressed in a spiced yogurt, with ginger and garlic, then roasted until caramelized and tender.
Think a Hugo spritz, a gin basil smash, and plenty more patio-ready pours.