Name: Hot Honey Feta with Pistachios and Thyme Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 23 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 block feta cheese (preferably in brine); 1/3 cup raw honey; 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes; 1 tsp apple cider vinegar (optional); 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional); 2 tbsp chopped pistachios, toasted; 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves; 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; Black pepper, to taste

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Introduction

This Hot Honey Feta recipe is a delightful appetizer that combines creamy baked feta with a spicy-sweet chili honey drizzle. Finished with crunchy pistachios and fresh thyme, it offers a harmonious blend of flavors that will wow your guests.

A thick square block of white cheese is grilled to a golden brown with a slightly crispy, caramelized top layer covered with chopped green and brown pistachios and small sprigs of fresh thyme placed on top. The cheese sits in a black cast iron skillet with a glistening layer of oil and scattered pistachio pieces around its base, resting on a white marbled texture. The cheese's texture looks soft and creamy inside with a droplet of honey or syrup slowly dripping down the side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 block feta cheese, preferably in brine
1/3 cup raw honey
1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
1 tsp apple cider vinegar (optional)
1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
2 tbsp chopped pistachios, toasted
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Pat the feta block dry and place it in a small cast iron skillet or oven-safe baking dish.
Step 3: Drizzle the feta with olive oil and lightly season with black pepper.
Step 4: Bake for 15–18 minutes until the feta softens and edges turn golden.
Step 5: While baking, prepare the hot honey by simmering the honey with chili flakes in a small saucepan over low heat for 2–3 minutes.
Step 6: If using, add apple cider vinegar and smoked paprika to the honey mixture and let it cool slightly.
Step 7: Remove the feta from the oven and drizzle generously with the hot honey.
Step 8: Top with chopped pistachios and sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the dish.
Step 9: Serve immediately with toasted bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables.

Tips & Variations

Use Greek feta in brine for the creamiest texture and boldest flavor.
Make the hot honey in advance and store it in a jar for up to two weeks.
Try adding lemon zest, rosemary, or mint for interesting flavor variations.

Storage

Store leftover baked feta covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at low temperature until warmed through. Keep leftover hot honey in a sealed jar at room temperature or in the fridge for up to two weeks.

How to Serve

A thick square block of white cheese with a slightly browned and crispy top layer covered generously with chopped green pistachios and a sprig of fresh thyme resting on it, sitting in a black cast iron skillet. Golden syrup or oil is dripping down the sides of the cheese and pooling around it in the skillet, mixing with scattered chopped pistachios and herbs. The skillet is on a white marbled surface with a slightly blurred warm background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

While feta is traditional and recommended for its texture and saltiness, you could try halloumi or ricotta salata for a different twist, but the flavor and consistency will vary.

Is the hot honey very spicy?

The heat level depends on the amount of crushed red pepper flakes used and your personal tolerance. You can adjust the chili flakes to make it milder or spicier according to your preference.