Mediterranean Crispy Fried Feta Triangles with Hot Chili Honey
These crispy fried feta triangles are the kind of appetizer that disappears before you even sit down. They take a few simple Mediterranean ingredients and turn them into something that feels special. The outside is crisp and golden, while the inside melts into warm, salty feta. The contrast gets even better when you drizzle them with hot chili honey. It adds sweetness, heat and a glossy finish that turns each bite into a perfect balance of flavors.
This recipe works well for gatherings, but it also fits as a snack or a light side dish. You can shape the triangles ahead of time and fry them when you’re ready. Since the filling is just feta with a bit of seasoning, there’s room to play with herbs, citrus zest or even a little ricotta if you want something softer. Mediterranean cooking often highlights simple ingredients prepared well, and this recipe is exactly that. Fast, crispy and full of flavor.
Total: 35 minutes
Prep: 20 minutes
Cook: 15 minutes
Ingredients
For the feta triangles:
250 g block feta, sliced into 8 rectangles
8 small square sheets of phyllo or spring roll wrappers
1 egg, beaten (for sealing)
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried thyme
Freshly ground black pepper
Oil for frying (vegetable, canola or light olive oil)
For the hot chili honey:
¼ cup honey
1 teaspoon chili flakes (or to taste)
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Pinch of salt
Instructions
Pat the feta slices dry to help the wrappers stick.
Sprinkle each slice with oregano, thyme and pepper.
Lay one wrapper flat and place a slice of feta near the bottom edge.
Fold the bottom over the cheese, then fold the sides inward.
Roll into a tight triangle or rectangular parcel. Brush the final edge with beaten egg to seal.
Repeat with all remaining feta slices.
Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. You need enough oil to shallow fry.
Fry the triangles for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
Transfer to a rack or paper towels to drain.
Warm the honey with chili flakes, lemon juice and salt, then drizzle over the triangles before serving.
Tips
Keep the wrappers covered with a damp towel so they don’t dry out.
If using phyllo, brush each layer lightly with oil and use two layers per triangle.
Don’t overfill or the cheese may leak.
Heat the oil properly; lukewarm oil makes soggy triangles.
Test the oil with a small corner of wrapper—if it bubbles steadily, it’s ready.
Use a slotted spoon to flip the triangles gently.
Slice the feta evenly so they cook at the same rate.
If the triangles brown too fast, lower the heat slightly.
Let them rest for a minute after frying so the exterior stays crisp.
Make the hot honey just before serving so it stays warm and runny.
Variations
Sesame-crusted: Press sesame seeds onto the wrapper before frying.
Herb-packed: Add fresh parsley or dill inside with the feta.
Zesty version: Add lemon zest to the cheese for brightness.
Tomato paste layer: Spread a thin swipe of tomato paste inside for more depth.
Ricotta blend: Mix feta with a spoon of ricotta for a softer filling.
Spicy feta: Add chopped fresh chili to the filling.
Honey-free: Serve with a squeeze of lemon or pomegranate molasses instead.
Air-fried version: Brush with oil and air fry at 190°C for 10–12 minutes.
Pistachio crunch: Add crushed pistachios inside for texture.
Mint-forward: Add finely chopped fresh mint to highlight Mediterranean flavor.
Q&A
Can I bake these instead of frying? Yes. Bake at 200°C for 12–15 minutes until golden.
Can I prep them ahead? Yes. Keep them wrapped and chilled, then fry before serving.
Can I freeze them? Freeze un-fried triangles and fry from frozen, adding extra minutes.
What type of feta works best? A firm Greek or sheep’s milk feta holds its shape.
Can I use puff pastry? Yes, but the texture will be flakier and richer.
Will low-fat feta work? It won’t melt the same way, but you can use it.
What oil is best for frying? Any neutral oil with a medium-high smoke point.
Can I make the hot honey milder? Use fewer chili flakes or mix in more honey.
Can I make them gluten-free? Use gluten-free spring roll wrappers.
What can I serve them with? They pair well with olives, cucumbers or a simple green salad.
Nutrition
(per triangle, approximate)
Calories: 155
Protein: 5 g
Fat: 10 g
Carbohydrates: 10 g
Fiber: 0.5 g
Sodium: 320 mg
Conclusion
These crispy feta triangles bring together salty cheese, crunchy pastry and warm spiced honey in a way that feels both rustic and vibrant. They’re easy to prepare and fry quickly, which makes them great for entertaining or for nights when you want something satisfying without spending too long in the kitchen. The hot chili honey is what makes them stand out. A small drizzle brings sweetness and heat that balances the rich feta perfectly.
Once you learn the basic folding technique, you can adjust the filling however you like. Fresh herbs, citrus zest or a pinch of spice all work well. They’re also adaptable to different cooking methods if you prefer baking or air frying. Serve them while they’re still warm so the wrappers stay crisp and the cheese stays soft. Whether they’re part of a larger spread or enjoyed on their own, they always make an impression.