Homemade Greek Cheese and Herb Pastries

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) olive oil 1/2 cup (120ml) olive oil
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• 1 cup (200g) feta cheese, crumbled 1 cup (200g) feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 cup (200g) ricotta cheese 1 cup (200g) ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup (15g) fresh dill, chopped 1/4 cup (15g) fresh dill, chopped
• 1/4 cup (15g) fresh mint, chopped 1/4 cup (15g) fresh mint, chopped
• 1/4 cup (15g) fresh parsley, chopped 1/4 cup (15g) fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Nutrition

• Calories: 120 kcal / 502 kJ
• Fat: 8g (5g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 9g (1g sugars)
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.4g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the olive oil and water. Mix until a soft dough forms.
2. 2.
   Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, combine the feta cheese, ricotta cheese, dill, mint, parsley, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
4. 4.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. 5.
   Roll out the dough into a thin sheet, about 1/8 inch thick. Using a round cookie cutter or a glass, cut out circles of about 3 inches in diameter.
6. 6.
   Place a spoonful of the cheese and herb mixture in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape and press the edges firmly to seal.
7. 7.
   Arrange the filled pastries on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg wash.
8. 8.
   Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown and crispy.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Feta cheese — Use a good quality feta cheese for the best flavor. If possible, opt for Greek feta cheese made from sheep's milk.
• Fresh herbs — Make sure to wash and dry the herbs thoroughly before chopping them. This will ensure their flavors are vibrant in the filling.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more intense flavor, add a pinch of lemon zest to the cheese and herb mixture.
• Experiment with different herbs like oregano or basil to customize the flavor profile.
• Serve the Kalitsounia warm for the best taste and texture.
• These pastries can be made ahead of time and reheated in the oven before serving.
• If you prefer a lighter version, you can brush the pastries with olive oil instead of the egg wash.

Serving advice

Serve the Kalitsounia as an appetizer or snack. They are delicious on their own or paired with a side of tzatziki sauce for dipping.

Presentation advice

Arrange the pastries on a platter and garnish with a sprig of fresh dill or mint for an elegant touch. The golden brown color of the pastries will be visually appealing.