Pan-Fried Feta with Peppered Honey

 

1/4 C. honey

1/2-1 tsp. black pepper, plus more for serving

1 T. fresh thyme leaves, plus more for serving

 

1 (10-12 ounce) block feta cheese

1 large egg, beaten

1/3 C. Panko bread crumbs

5 T. extra virgin olive oil

2 T. thinly sliced lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)

1 C. cherry tomatoes

1/4 C. fresh basil, chopped

pita chips or pita bread, for serving

 

To make the honey. Combine all ingredients in a glass jar. To make the feta. Whisk the egg in a shallow bowl. Add the Panko to a separate shallow bowl. Dip the feta through the egg, turning to coat, remove and allow any excess to drip off. Dredge the feta through the Panko, turning to coat and pressing gently to adhere. Heat 3 T. oil in a medium skillet set over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, add the lemon zest and cook 30 seconds to 1 minute until fried. Remove from the skillet and set aside. To the same skillet add the feta and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Transfer the feta to a serving plate. In a small bowl, combine the tomatoes, 1 T. oil, basil, and a pinch of salt. Serve the feta warm, drizzled with honey and topped with fried lemon, thyme, and tomatoes. Enjoy with pita chips or bread.