Oven Fried Feta Rolls: Prepare to be amazed! Imagine biting into a perfectly crisp, golden-brown exterior that gives way to a warm, creamy, and tangy feta filling. These aren’t your average appetizers; they’re a flavor explosion in every bite, and the best part? They’re oven-fried, meaning you get all the deliciousness without the guilt of deep-frying!
Feta, a cheese steeped in Greek history and tradition, has been enjoyed for centuries. Its salty, briny flavor is a cornerstone of Mediterranean cuisine. While often crumbled in salads or baked into savory pies, encasing it in a crispy roll elevates it to a whole new level of culinary delight. Think of these Oven Fried Feta Rolls as a modern twist on a classic ingredient.
What makes these rolls so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of textures and tastes. The flaky, crunchy exterior contrasts beautifully with the smooth, melt-in-your-mouth feta inside. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make! Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick and satisfying snack, or simply craving something delicious, these oven-fried feta rolls are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to experience a taste sensation that will leave you wanting more!
Ingredients:
- 1 package (14.1 ounces) refrigerated pizza dough
- 8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for brushing
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Sesame seeds, for sprinkling (optional)
Preparing the Feta Filling:
Alright, let’s get started with the heart of our feta rolls – the filling! This is where all the magic happens, and the fresh herbs really shine. Trust me, the aroma alone will have your mouth watering.
- In a medium bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, olive oil, oregano, mint, parsley, minced garlic, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember, feta is already quite salty, so go easy on the salt at first and adjust as needed.
- Mix all the ingredients together thoroughly until well combined. You want everything to be evenly distributed so that each bite is bursting with flavor. I like to use a fork to really mash everything together and ensure the herbs are nicely incorporated.
- Taste the filling and adjust the seasoning as needed. Maybe you want a little more lemon zest for brightness, or a touch more red pepper flakes for a kick. This is your chance to make it perfect!
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. This will add a nice nutty flavor and help bind the filling together slightly.
- Set the feta filling aside while you prepare the pizza dough.
Preparing the Dough and Assembling the Rolls:
Now for the fun part – working with the pizza dough! Don’t be intimidated; it’s easier than you think. We’re going to roll it out, spread on that delicious feta filling, and create those beautiful rolls.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the rolls from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
- Lightly flour a clean work surface. This will prevent the pizza dough from sticking as you roll it out.
- Unroll the refrigerated pizza dough onto the floured surface.
- Using a rolling pin, roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 12×16 inches. You want it to be thin but not so thin that it tears easily.
- Evenly spread the feta filling over the entire surface of the dough, leaving a small border (about 1/2 inch) along one of the long edges. This will help seal the roll.
- Starting from the opposite long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Try to keep the roll as even as possible.
- Pinch the seam to seal the roll tightly. This will prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
- Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the log into 1-inch thick rolls. You should get about 12-16 rolls.
- Place the rolls, cut-side up, onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- In a small bowl, beat the egg with a fork to create an egg wash.
- Brush the tops of the rolls with the egg wash. This will give them a beautiful golden-brown color and a slightly glossy finish.
- Sprinkle the tops of the rolls with sesame seeds (if using).
Baking the Feta Rolls:
Almost there! Now it’s time to bake these beauties until they’re golden brown and bubbly. The aroma that fills your kitchen will be absolutely irresistible.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on your oven.
- If the rolls start to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent them with aluminum foil to prevent them from burning.
- Once the rolls are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving and Enjoying:
The best part! These feta rolls are delicious served warm or at room temperature. They’re perfect as an appetizer, a side dish, or even a snack. I love to serve them with a simple Greek yogurt dip or a drizzle of honey.
Tips and Variations:
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. You could add some ricotta cheese to the feta filling for a creamier texture, or use a combination of feta and goat cheese for a tangier flavor.
- Herb Variations: Don’t be afraid to get creative with the herbs! You could try adding some dill, chives, or even a little bit of rosemary.
- Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling.
- Add Vegetables: You could add some chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or olives to the filling for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pizza dough to make these rolls gluten-free.
- Freezing Instructions: These feta rolls can be frozen for later. Simply bake them as directed, let them cool completely, and then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the feta filling and roll the dough ahead of time. Store the assembled rolls in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover them tightly to prevent them from drying out.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of tzatziki sauce or Greek yogurt dip.
- Drizzle with honey or balsamic glaze.
- Serve as part of a mezze platter with other Greek appetizers.
- Enjoy as a snack or light lunch.
- Bring them to a potluck or party – they’re always a crowd-pleaser!
Storage Instructions:
- Store leftover feta rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven, microwave, or toaster oven until heated through.
I hope you enjoy making and eating these delicious oven-fried feta rolls! They’re a guaranteed hit with family and friends. Happy baking!
Conclusion:
So, there you have it! My take on Oven Fried Feta Rolls – a recipe that’s ridiculously easy, incredibly satisfying, and guaranteed to become a new favorite in your household. I truly believe this is a must-try because it delivers all the crispy, cheesy goodness you crave without the guilt of deep-frying. It’s a win-win situation, right?
But what makes these rolls truly special is their versatility. They’re not just a snack; they’re a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Imagine serving them as an appetizer at your next gathering, alongside a vibrant Greek salad and a creamy tzatziki sauce for dipping. The combination of the warm, flaky rolls with the cool, refreshing salad is simply divine. Or, for a more substantial meal, try pairing them with a hearty bowl of tomato soup or a grilled chicken breast. The possibilities are endless!
And speaking of possibilities, let’s talk variations! Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile to your liking. A sprinkle of dried oregano or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick. You could even incorporate some finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes or Kalamata olives into the feta mixture for an extra burst of Mediterranean flavor. For a sweeter twist, consider adding a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of sesame seeds before baking. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own!
I’ve also found that these Oven Fried Feta Rolls are a fantastic way to use up leftover phyllo dough. Instead of letting it go to waste, you can transform it into a delicious and satisfying snack in no time. It’s a great way to reduce food waste and enjoy a tasty treat at the same time. Plus, they are perfect for meal prepping! Make a batch on Sunday and enjoy them throughout the week as a quick and easy snack or side dish.
I’m so confident that you’ll love this recipe that I urge you to give it a try. It’s simple enough for even the most novice cook, and the results are truly impressive. The combination of the crispy phyllo dough, the creamy feta cheese, and the aromatic herbs is simply irresistible. I promise you won’t be disappointed.
Once you’ve made your own batch of these delectable rolls, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you try any variations? What did you serve them with? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and stories with me in the comments below. I’m always eager to learn from my readers and see how they’re putting their own spin on my recipes. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to continue creating recipes that you’ll love.
So, go ahead, grab your ingredients, and get baking! I can’t wait to hear what you think of my Oven Fried Feta Rolls. Happy cooking!
Remember to adjust the baking time based on your oven. Every oven is different, so keep an eye on the rolls and remove them when they are golden brown and crispy. Enjoy!
Oven Fried Feta Rolls: Crispy, Delicious Recipe You'll Love
Flaky, flavorful feta rolls with feta, herbs, garlic, and lemon. Great appetizer, snack, or side!
Ingredients
Instructions
Recipe Notes
- Cheese Variations: Add ricotta or goat cheese to the feta filling.
- Herb Variations: Try dill, chives, or rosemary.
- Spice it Up: Add more red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
- Add Vegetables: Add chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or olives.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pizza dough.
- Freezing Instructions: Bake, cool, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
- Make Ahead: Prepare filling and roll dough up to 24 hours in advance.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with tzatziki, Greek yogurt dip, honey, or balsamic glaze.