Grilled Greek Manouri Cheese with Honey & Walnuts

Introduction

Grilling Manouri cheese on the Arteflame grill creates a deliciously golden crust while keeping the inside creamy and rich. Drizzled with honey and sprinkled with walnuts, this dish brings the perfect balance of sweet, nutty, and savory flavors. Simple to prepare and visually stunning, it's perfect as an appetizer or side dish for any grilling occasion.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces Manouri cheese, cut into 1/2-inch thick slices
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 1/4 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
• Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the napkins in the center of the grill.
3. Stack firewood over the napkins and light the paper.
4. Wait about 20 minutes for the cooktop to reach the ideal grilling temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese

1. Cut the Manouri cheese into 1/2-inch thick slices.
2. Lightly brush each piece with melted butter for enhanced flavor.

Step 3: Grill the Manouri Cheese

1. Place the cheese slices on the flat cooktop griddle closer to the center where it's hotter.
2. Grill for 2-3 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms on the bottom.
3. Flip the cheese carefully using a spatula and grill for another 2-3 minutes until both sides are perfectly seared.

Step 4: Drizzle with Honey & Walnuts

1. Remove the grilled Manouri cheese from the Arteflame and place on a serving platter.
2. Drizzle warm honey over the grilled cheese.
3. Sprinkle chopped walnuts on top.
4. Garnish with fresh thyme for a touch of earthiness.

Tips

• Use butter instead of olive oil for a richer flavor.
• Place the cheese closer to the center for a strong sear but watch it closely to prevent overcooking.
• Serve immediately to enjoy the warm, creamy texture of the cheese.
• Add a pinch of sea salt to enhance the overall flavor profile.

Variations

1. Spicy Honey Glaze: Add a dash of chili flakes to the honey for a spicy kick.
2. Lemon & Herb: Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle fresh oregano for a refreshing twist.
3. Pistachio & Fig: Swap walnuts for pistachios and add chopped dried figs for extra sweetness.
4. Smoky Paprika: Dust the cheese with smoked paprika before grilling for a slightly smoky depth.
5. Balsamic Reduction: Drizzle with a balsamic glaze for a rich, tangy contrast to the honey.

Best Pairings

• A crisp Greek white wine like Assyrtiko
• Grilled pita bread for added texture
• Fresh figs and grapes for sweetness
• A light arugula salad with lemon dressing

Conclusion

This grilled Greek Manouri cheese dish is an easy yet elegant addition to your grilling repertoire. The Arteflame grill allows for a flawless sear, creating a crispy crust with a creamy interior. Whether served as an appetizer, a side, or even dessert with some fresh fruit, this dish is guaranteed to impress.