Are you looking for a quick and easy appetizer that’s both delicious and visually stunning? Look no further! These mini phyllo cups are the perfect solution for your next gathering, whether it's a casual weeknight dinner or a fancy party. They're surprisingly simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, yet they deliver maximum flavor and elegance. Get ready to impress your guests with these delightful little bites!
Ingredients:
- 1 package (14.1 oz) phyllo dough, thawed
- 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Prepare the Phyllo Cups:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin.
- Carefully separate the phyllo sheets. Work quickly to prevent them from drying out.
- Cut each sheet into approximately 4-inch squares.
- Brush each square lightly with melted butter.
- Gently press one buttered phyllo square into each muffin cup, letting it drape over the sides. Repeat with a second layer of buttered phyllo, pressing gently to form a cup shape. You may need to trim any excess phyllo hanging over the edge.
Make the Filling:
- In a medium bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, chopped Kalamata olives, minced garlic, and fresh oregano.
- Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well to combine.
Assemble and Bake:
- Spoon the feta mixture into each phyllo cup, filling them about ¾ full.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the phyllo cups are golden brown and crispy.
- Let the mini phyllo cups cool slightly in the muffin tin before carefully removing them.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these delicious mini phyllo cups warm or at room temperature. They’re perfect as an appetizer, a side dish, or even a light snack. Consider serving them with a simple dollop of plain yogurt or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra touch of flavor.
Variations:
- Spinach and Artichoke: Replace the feta, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives with a mixture of sautéed spinach, artichoke hearts, and Parmesan cheese.
- Mushroom and Gruyere: Use sautéed mushrooms, Gruyere cheese, and a touch of thyme for a savory and earthy flavor.
- Sweet and Savory: Experiment with a sweet and savory combination by adding caramelized onions and goat cheese.
Tips for Success:
- Work quickly: Phyllo dough dries out easily, so keep unused sheets covered with a damp cloth while working.
- Don't overfill: Overfilling the cups can cause them to overflow during baking.
- Use a good quality phyllo: The quality of the phyllo dough will impact the final result, so opt for a reputable brand.
Nutritional Information (per cup, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Fat: Approximately 8-10g
- Protein: Approximately 3-4g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 8-10g
These mini phyllo cups are a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes, healthy meals, and quick dinner ideas. They’re a testament to how homemade cooking can produce delicious dishes without requiring hours in the kitchen. Enjoy!