Manouri cheese is a soft Greek cheese made from sheep or goat milk. The way it is made is similar to the way feta is made and it has a light, creamy texture that’s absolutely delicious. Manouri is used several different ways in Greek cooking and today I’m going to show you how to use make it into a simple appetizer everyone will love.
I typically buy Manouri at our local Greek store, but you can also procure it online. Store it in the refrigerator until it is time to use it. To make this appetizer you also need a few fresh figs, toasted pine nuts, and a delicious balsamic glaze. I buy the glaze at the grocery store, or you can make your own.
The most involved part of this appetizer is grilling the cheese. I know, the Greek’s love to grill their cheeses! Since this isn’t a runny cheese it won’t melt on the grill grate, I promise. The key is having the grill at high heat and shifting it delicately while grilling it to make a crosshatch pattern. The grilling caramelizes the exterior of the cheese and gives it a great depth of flavor.
Once the grilling is done all you have to do is finish assembling everything. Slice the figs into quarters and place them on top of the cheese, tucking them in so they all fit. Then add the lightly toasted pine nuts on top, and drizzle the glaze over everything. When you serve this to guests have a cheese knife and cocktail napkins handy. The guests can simply cut off a piece with fig and pine nuts in bite-size chunks and enjoy!
This is a really easy, fun appetizer to serve when you are having people over. It also looks really good when added to a grazing table like the one we filmed last year (insert link). No matter how you serve it, it is guaranteed to be a hit. Tuck this is in your files for holiday party menus this fall – you’ll be glad you did!
GRILLED MANOURI WITH FIGS
This is such a great appetizer; you will love how the salty cheese and sweet figs contrast one another. It is great for serving at a party or just making to accompany a large family meal!
Serves 12 - 15
1 piece of manouri (10 ounces), cut in half lengthwise
6 figs, quartered
2 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted
Drizzle balsamic reduction
Bring the grill to high heat. Place the two pieces of cheese directly on the hot grill grate. Grill for 3 minutes per side, then adjust the cheese so you have crosshatch char marks.
Place the grilled cheese on a serving plate. Layer the quartered figs on top, then sprinkle the pine nuts on top. Lastly, drizzle the balsamic over everything. Place a small knife on the tray so people can cut pieces to serve themselves.
Nikki Glekas is the owner of Nikki Glekas Events, a full-service catering and events company located in Stamford, CT. She is currently operating with COVID-safe procedures and is happy to discuss your event and catering needs with you. To discuss further please contact team@nikkiglekasevents.com or call 203.658.8659.
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