Baked Feta in Filo with Honey Sesame Seeds

 

2 blocks of quality feta, 3 ounces each

2 sheets of phyllo dough, thawed

¼ C. honey, warmed if necessary, for drizzling (I love using this Greek honey)

2 T. toasted sesame seeds, more to your liking

1 T. fresh thyme leaves, for garnish

 

Heat the oven to 350 degrees F and position a rack in the center. Prepare the phyllo. Take each sheet of phyllo dough and spread it carefully on a clean surface or cutting board. Brush the surface of the phyllo facing you with extra virgin olive oil. Wrap the feta blocks in the phyllo. Now, add one block of cheese on top of the phyllo toward the bottom (the short end closest to you). Wrap the feta with the phyllo, folding the sides to almost cover the cheese. And again, brush the folded phyllo with olive oil as needed. Continue to wrap the phyllo around the cheese block, moving the cheese away from you. Repeat with the second block of feta and the remaining phyllo sheet. Brush the top layer with olive oil. Arrange the phyllo-wrapped feta, seam side down, on a small sheet pan. Bake. Bake in the heated oven for 20 minutes or until the phyllo is golden and crispy on both sides (if after 20 minutes, the bottom is fully golden and the top is not, carefully turn it over on the other side and return to the oven for another 5 minutes or so).  Serve with honey. When ready, remove the baked feta from the oven and, using a spatula, carefully transfer to a serving plate. Immediately drizzle with the honey and sprinkle with the toasted sesame seeds. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme for garnish. Serve!