Introducing a culinary masterpiece that combines the richness of kasseri cheese with the vibrant flavors of Greece – the Ouzo-Marinated Greek Cheese. This tantalizing recipe, brought to you by lovewithrecipes.com, is not just a dish; it’s a symphony of Greek authenticity on your plate. With a preparation time of 45 minutes and a total time investment of 4 hours and 49 minutes, this recipe falls under the “Cheese” category, making it a perfect choice for a European-inspired weeknight delight. So, let’s dive into the culinary journey and unleash the flavors of the Mediterranean.
Ouzo-Marinated Greek Cheese
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 12 | Kasseri cheese |
| 1/2 | Cup olive oil |
| 1/4 | Cup fresh parsley |
| 1 | Fresh thyme |
| 1 | Pepper |
Instructions:
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Prepare the Cheese:
- Begin by cutting the kasseri cheese lengthwise into four 1/2-inch thick pieces, creating the perfect foundation for the dish.
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Marinating Magic:
- Arrange the cheese pieces in a single layer in a shallow dish, setting the stage for the infusion of delightful flavors.
- In a small bowl, combine the ouzo, olive oil, fresh parsley, thyme, and pepper, creating a marinating elixir that will elevate the cheese to new heights.
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Immerse in Flavor:
- Pour the marinade generously over the cheese, ensuring each piece is coated with the essence of Greek goodness.
- Let the cheese marinate for a minimum of 4 hours, allowing it to soak up the flavors, or extend it to 8 hours for an even more indulgent experience. Remember to turn the cheese once during this marinating symphony.
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Preheat and Broil:
- As the marination finale approaches, preheat the broiler, setting the stage for the cheese’s grand transformation.
- Gently remove the cheese from its flavorful bath and transfer it to 4 small broiler-proof gratin dishes, ready for the broiling masterpiece.
- Drizzle 2 teaspoons of the marinade over each piece of cheese, creating a golden glaze that will mesmerize your taste buds.
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The Culmination:
- Broil the cheese until it reaches the perfect balance of softness and just begins to melt, approximately 4 minutes of culinary alchemy.
- Witness the transformation as the cheese becomes a luscious masterpiece, ready to grace your table with its irresistible allure.
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Serve with Panache:
- Elevate the experience by serving the Ouzo-Marinated Greek Cheese with freshly grilled pita bread, creating a symphony of textures and flavors that will leave your guests craving for more.
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Savor the Notes:
- This starter pays homage to the traditional fried cheese dish, saganaki, and achieves the same delightful notes while embracing an easier preparation.
- For the perfect pairing, savor this dish with a glass of ouzo, immersing yourself in the true essence of Greek culinary artistry.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 121.3
- Fat Content: 13.5g
- Saturated Fat Content: 1.9g
- Cholesterol Content: 0mg
- Sodium Content: 0.9g
- Carbohydrate Content: 0.5g
- Fiber Content: 0.2g
- Sugar Content: 0g
- Protein Content: 0.1g
In conclusion, the Ouzo-Marinated Greek Cheese recipe transcends ordinary culinary boundaries, offering a delightful journey through the flavors of Greece. Whether it’s a weeknight indulgence or a special occasion, this dish promises to be a showstopper on your dining table. Embrace the Mediterranean magic, and let the symphony of tastes transport you to the sun-kissed shores of Greece. Enjoy the culinary adventure!
