Feta Chilli Fillo Bites

This feta and chilli fillo bites recipe transforms simple ingredients into an impressive appetizer that balances creamy feta with spicy chilli and crispy pastry. The sweet honey drizzle creates a perfect flavor contrast that will leave your guests reaching for more.

I first made these for a last minute dinner party and they disappeared within minutes. Now they're my signature appetizer that friends specifically request when they visit our home.

Ingredients

• Antoniou Fillo Pastry: Provides the essential crispy layers that make these bites irresistible
• Butter: Helps create those golden flaky layers and adds richness
• Feta cheese: Offers a creamy tangy center that softens slightly when baked
• Chilli flakes: Add the perfect kick of heat; choose quality flakes for best flavor
• Sesame seeds: Bring a nutty dimension and delightful texture
• Honey: For drizzling; adds a sweet contrast to the savory spicy bites
• Black sesame seeds: For garnishing; provide visual appeal and subtle flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare The Pastry:

Allow the fillo pastry to come to room temperature while still in its packaging; this prevents it from drying out and cracking. Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius fan forced to ensure the perfect crispy texture.

Prepare The Tins:

Thoroughly brush your muffin tins with melted butter, covering all surfaces to prevent sticking and to add richness to the pastry as it bakes.

Prepare The Fillo:

Lay your stack of fillo on your work surface and cut it lengthwise, creating two equal stacks. Brush the top sheet of each stack generously with butter, ensuring coverage to the edges for even browning.

Add Flavor Enhancers:

Sprinkle the buttered pastry liberally with chilli flakes and sesame seeds, distributing evenly across the surface to ensure every bite has a perfect balance of flavor.

Assemble The Rolls:

Position feta strips along the length of each pastry stack, about 1.5cm from the edge. Fold the bottom edge over the feta and roll firmly to create a tight log; this ensures the filling stays secured during baking.

Create Individual Bites:

Using a sharp knife, slice each log into 15 equal pieces, making sure to cut cleanly through for neat presentation.

Arrange For Baking:

Place each slice into a muffin tin hole, with the cut side facing up, then pour a tablespoon of butter over each piece, allowing it to seep between the layers of pastry.

Bake To Perfection:

Bake for 35 minutes until the pastry turns a beautiful golden brown and crispy texture develops throughout all layers.

Final Touches:

Let the bites rest for five minutes after baking, then transfer to your serving platter, drizzle with honey and sprinkle with black sesame seeds for the perfect finishing touch.

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The combination of the chilli and honey is what makes these truly special. I discovered this flavor pairing during a trip to Greece where I tasted honey drizzled over spicy cheese for the first time. The memory was so vivid I had to recreate it at home.

Make Ahead Options

These fillo bites can be fully assembled and refrigerated up to 24 hours before baking. Simply cover the muffin tins with plastic wrap and remove from the refrigerator about 20 minutes before baking to take the chill off. You might need to add 3 to 5 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold. Alternatively, you can freeze the assembled unbaked bites for up to a month; just add about 10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from frozen.

Variation Ideas

While the classic recipe is perfect as is, you can customize these bites to suit your taste preferences or what you have available. Try replacing the feta with goat cheese for a tangier flavor, or mix in some crumbled bacon with the feta for an indulgent twist. Vegetable lovers can add finely diced roasted red peppers or spinach to the filling. For a milder version, reduce the chilli flakes and add some fresh herbs like oregano or thyme instead.

Serving Suggestions

These feta chilli fillo bites shine as part of a Mediterranean meze platter alongside hummus, olives, and stuffed grape leaves. They also work beautifully as a passed appetizer at cocktail parties. For a heartier offering, serve them with a simple Greek salad on the side. These bites pair wonderfully with crisp white wines, particularly a Sauvignon Blanc or Assyrtiko, or even a light rosé which complements the spicy, savory flavors perfectly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I prevent Fillo Pastry from drying out?

Keep Fillo Pastry covered with a damp kitchen towel while working to prevent it from drying out.

→ Can I make these bites ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and assemble the bites in advance. Bake them fresh before serving for the best texture.

→ What honey works best for drizzling?

A light, floral honey complements the salty feta and spicy chilli flavors beautifully.

→ Can I adjust the spice level?

Absolutely! Use fewer chilli flakes for a milder flavor or add more for extra heat.

→ Do I need a specific type of sesame seeds?

White sesame seeds are commonly used, but black sesame seeds add a striking visual and nutty flavor.

→ What can I serve alongside these bites?

Serve with a light green salad, olives, or a dipping sauce like tzatziki for a complete appetizer spread.