Want something light, sweet and a little cheesy for dinner? We’ve got the perfect solution. That’s what’s cooking tonight as we grab a Bite with Belkys.

The Chef: Manoli Aslanoglou

The Restaurant: Manoli, Miami

The Dish: Crispy Phyllo Feta with Greek Fig Salad

Ingredients:

4 sheets phyllo dough4 slices Greek feta cheese (3-4 oz / 85-115 g each)2-3 oz (60-90 g) unsalted butter, meltedOlive oil, as needed for the pan4-5 oz (120-150 ml) Greek thyme honey2 tbsp toasted sesame seedsGreek Fig Salad:8 dried Greek figs, stems removed and sliced1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved¼ cup fresh mint leaves, torn2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil1 tbsp red wine vinegar (or a splash, to taste)Pinch of sea saltFreshly ground black pepper

Method of Preparation:

Lay one sheet of phyllo dough on a clean work surface.Place one slice of feta near the bottom edge of the phyllo.Fold the sides inward and wrap tightly, like a parcel or spring roll.Brush the final edge with melted butter to seal the package securely.Repeat with the remaining feta and phyllo sheets.Heat a thin layer of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over low to medium-low heat.Cook the wrapped feta gently on both sides until the phyllo becomes deep golden brown and exceptionally crisp, about 2-3 minutes per side.Transfer to a 350°F (175°C) oven for 3 minutes to ensure the feta is warm, soft, and just beginning to melt.

Fig Salad:

Combine the sliced dried figs, cherry tomatoes, and fresh mint in a bowl.Dress with the olive oil and red wine vinegar.Season lightly with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.Toss gently just before serving.

To Serve:

Place one crispy phyllo-wrapped feta on each plate.Drizzle generously with warm Greek thyme honey, then sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds.Serve alongside the fresh fig, cherry tomato, and mint salad. The sweetness of the figs and honey, the freshness of the mint and tomatoes, and the acidity of the vinegar balance the rich, creamy feta and crisp filo beautifully.This dish works well as an appetizer or meze and pairs especially well with a chilled glass of dry white wine or a crisp rosé.

Manoli Miami is participating in Miami Spice 2026. For more information, click here.

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