Are you dreaming of a Greek getaway? Then transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched shores of Athens with these incredibly easy and delicious mini phyllo cups! Perfect as appetizers, party snacks, or even a light lunch, these little gems are packed with flavor and require minimal effort. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is your ticket to creating a truly memorable and authentic Greek experience at home. Get ready to impress your friends and family with these bite-sized masterpieces!
Ingredients:
- 1 package (14.1 oz) phyllo dough, thawed
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped Kalamata olives
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: Cherry tomatoes, halved; crumbled goat cheese
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of the phyllo cups later.
Prepare the Phyllo Cups:
- Carefully separate the phyllo sheets. Work quickly to prevent them from drying out. Brush each sheet lightly with melted butter.
- Fold each sheet in thirds or quarters, depending on the desired cup size. Press the folded phyllo into the muffin tin cups, creating a little nest. Overlapping layers is fine, this adds structure.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden brown and crispy.
Create the Filling:
- While the phyllo cups are baking, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, combine the feta cheese, Kalamata olives, red onion, and fresh dill.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Season generously with salt and pepper. Mix gently to combine.
Assemble and Serve:
- Once the phyllo cups are baked and slightly cooled, carefully remove them from the muffin tin.
- Fill each cup generously with the feta and olive mixture.
- For extra flavor and visual appeal, consider adding halved cherry tomatoes or a sprinkle of crumbled goat cheese on top.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Phyllo Cups:
- Keep it covered: Keep unused phyllo sheets covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out and becoming brittle.
- Don't overcrowd: Don't overfill the phyllo cups, as the filling may spill over during baking.
- Adjust baking time: Ovens vary, so keep a close eye on your phyllo cups while they're baking. Adjust the baking time as needed to achieve a golden-brown color.
Variations:
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Herby: Experiment with different herbs, such as oregano, mint, or thyme.
- Meaty: Add crumbled cooked sausage or ground lamb to the filling for a heartier dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
These Athens mini phyllo cups are a fantastic option for healthy meals, quick dinner ideas, and are easily adaptable to fit various dietary needs and preferences. They are perfect for homemade cooking enthusiasts looking for delicious dishes and best recipes to impress their guests. Enjoy!