Are you craving a dish that's both simple and sophisticated? Look no further than this browned butter mizithra recipe. This easy recipe delivers a burst of creamy, nutty flavor in minutes, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive appetizer. It’s a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients transformed into something truly delicious. This healthy meal is surprisingly quick to prepare, making it one of the best recipes for busy cooks seeking homemade cooking without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 cup mizithra cheese, crumbled (you can substitute with ricotta salata or feta for a variation)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Crusty bread or pita bread, for serving
Instructions:
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Brown the Butter: This is the magic step! In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Continue cooking, swirling the pan occasionally, until the butter turns a light golden brown and has a nutty aroma. Be careful not to burn it – it can go from golden brown to burnt very quickly. This process usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat immediately once browned.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the crumbled mizithra cheese and grated Parmesan cheese to the browned butter. Stir gently until the cheese is melted and creamy. Stir in the lemon juice and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve: Spoon the browned butter mizithra mixture onto crusty bread or pita bread. Serve immediately and enjoy the warm, comforting deliciousness.
Tips for the Best Browned Butter Mizithra:
- Use high-quality butter: The flavor of the butter significantly impacts the final dish. Choose a good quality unsalted butter for the best results.
- Don't overheat the butter: Keep a close eye on the butter while browning to prevent burning. The color should be a light golden brown, not dark brown or black.
- Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper to your liking.
- Add some spice: For a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture.
Variations:
- Honey drizzle: A drizzle of honey adds a touch of sweetness that complements the savory flavors beautifully.
- Roasted vegetables: Serve the browned butter mizithra with roasted vegetables like cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers for a more substantial meal.
- Pasta sauce: Use this as a base for a quick and flavorful pasta sauce. Toss with your favorite pasta and garnish with fresh herbs.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: High (mostly from butter)
- Protein: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: Low
This simple recipe transforms readily available ingredients into a truly special dish. It’s a quick dinner idea, perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a healthy and delicious meal on the table fast. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this browned butter mizithra recipe is a guaranteed winner. It's a fantastic example of how easy it is to create homemade cooking that’s both flavorful and satisfying. Try it and experience the magic of browned butter and mizithra cheese!