Saganaki (Pan-Seared Greek Cheese)

A golden, crusty pan-fried slab of kasseri or graviera cheese finished with a flash of lemon, a Greek taverna classic.

Ingredients

• 8 oz kasseri, graviera or halloumi cheese, cut 1/2 inch thick
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon, halved

Cracked black pepper

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
• Warm pita or crusty bread, for serving

Directions

1. Pat the cheese dry and dredge all sides lightly in flour.
2. Heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium-high until shimmering.
3. Add the cheese and sear until a deep golden crust forms, about 2 minutes per side.
4. Squeeze fresh lemon over the top while it sizzles.
5. Finish with cracked pepper and oregano.
6. Serve immediately with warm bread for scooping.

Notes

A taverna favorite reflecting Michael Symon’s Greek roots.