Meal type: Appetizer / Snack
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Serves: 2–3

Overview

This dish combines crispy, salty feta “lace” - an ultra-thin cheese crisp that shatters delicately - with a cool creamy yogurt base and a drizzle of spicy hot honey. It’s elegant, addictive, and takes just minutes to make. Perfect as a quick appetizer, brunch bite, or a fancy snack with wine.

Ingredients

For the Feta Lace:

• 150 g (about 1 cup) crumbled feta cheese - firm, not too wet

• 1 tsp olive oil (optional, for crispiness)

• Pinch of black pepper or chili flakes (optional)

For the Yogurt Base:

• ½ cup Greek yogurt, plain and thick

• ½ tbsp lemon juice or white wine vinegar

• ½ tbsp olive oil

• Salt & pepper to taste

For the Hot Honey Drizzle:

• 2 tbsp honey

• ½–1 tsp chili flakes or a small fresh chili, finely chopped

• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar (optional, for tang)

Instructions

Step 1. Make the Hot Honey

1.  In a small saucepan, warm the honey over low heat.

2.  Stir in chili flakes (and vinegar, if using).

3.  Let it gently infuse for 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat.

4.  Set aside to cool slightly - it should be pourable but not watery.

Step 2. Prepare the Feta Lace

1.  Preheat a non-stick skillet (or cast iron pan) over medium heat.

2.  Scatter a thin, even layer of crumbled feta directly onto the pan.

- Don’t overcrowd - leave small gaps so the lace effect forms.

3.  Optional: drizzle a few drops of olive oil to help it crisp.

4.  Cook for 3–5 minutes, until the cheese melts and edges turn golden brown.

5.  Gently lift the edges with a spatula. Once golden and firm, flip carefully.

6.  Cook the other side for 30–60 seconds, then transfer to a paper towel to drain excess oil.

7.  Let it cool - it will become super crispy as it rests.

Step 3. Prepare the Yogurt Base

1.  In a small bowl, whisk yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

2.  Spread it in a thin layer on a serving plate or small bowl.

Step 4. Assemble the Dish

1.  Break the feta lace into rustic pieces or serve as a whole crisp.

2.  Place over the yogurt base.

3.  Drizzle generously with hot honey.

4.  Sprinkle extra chili flakes or herbs (like thyme or mint) if desired.

Serving Ideas

• Serve warm with toasted pita, flatbread, or fresh cucumber slices.

• For a fancier touch, top with a few toasted sesame seeds or crushed pistachios.

• Pair with a chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon.

Tips & Variations

• Make it spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne to the feta before frying.

• Add herbs: Mix finely chopped rosemary, oregano, or dill into the yogurt.

• Sweet version: Skip chili and drizzle plain honey or fig jam instead.

• Vegan twist: Replace feta with a vegan cashew-based cheese and use plant yogurt.

Nutrition (per serving)

(approximate values)

• Calories: 220 kcal

• Protein: 9 g

• Fat: 15 g

• Carbs: 12 g

• Fiber: <1 g

Chef’s Note

Crispy Feta Lace is all about contrast - salty vs. sweet, creamy vs. crunchy, cool vs. spicy. It’s deceptively simple yet feels like something from a trendy bistro. The hot honey elevates the feta, giving it a fiery-sweet kick that pairs beautifully with the tangy yogurt.