Name: Crispy Feta Pockets with Lemon, Thyme, and Sesame Seeds Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling and brushing; 1 (5.3- to 7-oz.) block feta cheese (about 4″-by-3″-by-3/4″ for the 7-oz. block), preferably not packed in brine; 2 (13″-by-9″) or 1 (17″-by-12″) frozen phyllo sheets, thawed; 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves, plus more for serving; 1/4 tsp finely grated lemon zest; 2 tsp toasted white sesame seeds; Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes; 1 tbsp honey; Toasted pita or pita chips, for serving

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Introduction

Crispy Feta Pockets offer a delightful contrast of crunchy phyllo and creamy, tangy feta cheese inside. This elegant yet simple appetizer is perfect for entertaining or a special snack with warm pita or pita chips.

A stack of four rectangular pastry pieces sits on a white plate, each filled with a creamy white cheese that contains small bits of herbs. The thin, golden-brown pastry layers are crisp with slightly darker, toasted edges. Golden honey is drizzled generously over the top, dripping down the sides, and sprinkled with white sesame seeds, small green herb leaves, and red chili flakes. The background shows a clean, white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling and brushing
1 (5.3- to 7-oz.) block feta (about 4″-by-3″-by-3/4″ for the 7-oz. block), preferably not packed in brine

2 (13″-by-9″) or 1 (17″-by-12″) frozen phyllo sheets, thawed
1 tsp. fresh thyme leaves, plus more for serving

1/4 tsp. finely grated lemon zest
2 tsp. toasted white sesame seeds

Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
1 tbsp. honey
Toasted pita or pita chips, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F. Drizzle the center of a small baking sheet with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Wrap the block of feta in a clean dish towel or paper towels. Place a heavy object such as a cast-iron skillet on top to press and drain excess moisture, replacing the towels as needed, for 30 to 60 minutes.
Step 3: Lay 2 phyllo sheets (13″x9″) on a work surface, slightly overlapping, or fold a single 17″x12″ sheet in half. Sprinkle the top with fresh thyme leaves and lemon zest.

Step 4: Place the drained feta along the short end of the phyllo. Fold the long sides over the feta, then roll gently like a burrito. Brush the edge of the phyllo with olive oil to seal the pocket.
Step 5: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes. Add the wrapped feta, turning carefully with tongs to brown all sides evenly, about 2 to 3 minutes total. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
Step 6: Bake in the oven until the feta is warmed through and creamy inside, about 10 minutes.

Step 7: Cut the baked pockets into pieces if desired. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, crushed red pepper flakes, and additional thyme. Drizzle with honey and serve warm alongside toasted pita or pita chips.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh phyllo and keep the unused sheets covered with a damp towel to prevent drying out.
Substitute fresh oregano or basil for thyme for a different herb flavor.

For extra crunch, sprinkle the pockets with sesame seeds before frying.
Try dipping the pockets in a simple yogurt sauce flavored with garlic and lemon for a creamy accompaniment.

Storage

Store leftover feta pockets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a low oven (around 300°F) for 8–10 minutes to restore crispness rather than microwaving, which can make the phyllo soggy.

How to Serve

On a white plate with a subtle texture, two square layers of golden-brown, crispy pastry are stacked, the top one slightly broken to show a thick, creamy white cheese filling inside. The pastry is sprinkled with small white sesame seeds, fresh green herb leaves, and red chili flakes. Around the pastry, there is a glossy drizzle of amber honey, pooled slightly and adding shine. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, with a few scattered herb leaves and a piece of crispy brown cracker partially visible at the bottom right. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the pockets up to the frying step and refrigerate them covered for a few hours before cooking. Fry and bake just before serving to maintain crispness.

What if I can’t find phyllo sheets?

If phyllo is unavailable, try using frozen puff pastry sheets, though the texture will be somewhat different but still delicious.