Feta wrapped in filo pastry

Feta cheese is a staple in Greek cuisine and is often used in a variety of dishes, from savory pies and tarts to salads and appetizers. One of the most beloved ways to enjoy feta is by wrapping it in filo pastry and grilling it until it is golden and crispy. This dish is a true celebration of Greek flavors and is sure to impress your friends and family at your next barbecue or summer gathering.

But where did this delicious recipe come from? Filo pastry, also known as Phyllo, has a long history in the Middle East and Mediterranean regions, where it has been used for centuries to create sweet and savory pastries. The word "phyllo" comes from the Greek word "phyllon," which means "leaf," referring to the thin, delicate layers of dough used in this type of pastry. Filo pastry is a staple in many traditional Greek dishes, including baklava, spanakopita, and tyropita.

Feta cheese, on the other hand, has a somewhat disputed history. Some believe that feta was first made in ancient Greece, while others believe it originated in the Balkans. What is clear, however, is that feta has been enjoyed in the region for thousands of years and has become an integral part of Greek cuisine. Made from sheep's milk or a combination of sheep's and goat's milk, feta has a tangy, salty flavor that pairs perfectly with the flaky, buttery layers of filo pastry.

This recipe for feta wrapped in filo pastry is easy to prepare and is sure to be a hit at your next grill-out. Simply brush sheets of filo pastry with olive oil, top with slices of feta, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves, and fold. Grill until the pastry is crispy and golden brown, and serve hot for a delicious and satisfying appetizer or snack. So why wait? Fire up the grill and give this tasty Greek treat a try today!

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat (350-450°F). This can be achieved by lighting your charcoal and allowing it to burn until they are covered in white-gray ash, about 20-30 minutes.
2. Brush each sheet of filo pastry with olive oil.
3. Cut the feta cheese into 4 equal slices.
4. Place a slice of feta in the center of each filo pastry sheet. Top with a slice of sun-dried tomato and a basil leaf.
5. Fold the filo pastry over the feta, sun-dried tomato, and basil to create a sealed rectangle. Use a little more olive oil to seal the edges.
6. Place the filo packages on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until the pastry is crispy and golden brown. Use tongs to flip the pastries and monitor the temperature of the grill to ensure that it stays at a consistent medium heat.
7. Serve hot and enjoy! To give it a little twist, top it off with some honey and sesame seeds.