Golden Fried Cheese Saganaki
Crispy, golden-fried halloumi cheese with a molten center, finished with a squeeze of lemon and optional honey. A classic Greek appetizer ready in minutes.
- Total time
- 15 min
- Servings
- 4
- Calories
- 420
- Protein
- 18g

Ingredients
- 1 lb halloumi cheese
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup olive oil
- 1 whole lemon
- 2 tbsp honey
Instructions
- 1
Cut the halloumi cheese into 0.5-inch-thick slices, about 3 inches long and 2 inches wide. Pat the slices completely dry with paper towels; this ensures a crispy exterior.
- 2
Place the flour in a shallow dish. Dredge each cheese slice lightly in flour, shaking off excess, so only a thin coating remains.
- 3
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers, about 2 minutes. The oil should be hot enough that a piece of cheese sizzles immediately upon contact.
- 4
Carefully lay the floured cheese slices into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid crowding. Fry for 1.5–2 minutes per side until the exterior is deep golden brown and crispy, using tongs to turn gently.
- 5
Transfer the fried cheese to a paper towel–lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately while still warm, with fresh lemon wedges alongside and drizzle of honey if desired.
Tools you’ll need
- Large skillet
- Shallow dish
- Paper towels
- Tongs
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