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Mykonian Kopanisti Cheese and Butter Bites

These delightful cheese bites showcase the bold, tangy flavor of Kopanisti Mykonou, a traditional Greek cheese known for its spicy and creamy profile. Originating from the Cyclades, Kopanisti is a staple in Mykonian cuisine, often enjoyed as a spread or incorporated into appetizers. This recipe transforms it into rich, buttery bites, coated with a variety of textures and flavors, from toasted nuts to fresh herbs. Perfect for entertaining, these bites pair beautifully with crisp bread or grissini, offering a balance of creamy, nutty, and aromatic elements. Whether served as elegant hors d'oeuvres or a rustic meze, they embody the essence of Greek hospitality and culinary tradition.

Cheese Course | Starter | Greek | Vegetarian | Spread | Mixing Bowl | Avocado | Cheese | Pistachio | Walnut | Chopping | No-Cook | Quick
Time to complete

Prep

15min

Cook

0 minutes

Wait

30min

Total

45min

Ingredients (Makes 12 bites)

Cheese Mixture

  • 250 g (8.8 oz) Kopanisti Mykonou cheese
  • 250 g (8.8 oz) unsalted butter, softened
  • 60 g (2.1 oz) strained cow’s milk yogurt
  • 1 ripe avocado, flesh scooped out
  • A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg

For Coating

  • Crushed mixed nuts (such as walnuts, almonds, or pistachios)
  • Finely chopped wild fennel or dill
  • Finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes in oil, well-drained
  • Mixed sesame seeds
  • Finely chopped fresh herbs or minced fennel bulb

For Serving

  • Toasted bread slices or grissini
Nutrition Information (per 100g)
  • Calories: 320
  • Fat: 28
  • Protein: 7
  • Carbohydrates: 5
  • Fiber: 2
Directions

Prepare the Cheese Mixture

  • 1. In a bowl, thoroughly mix the Kopanisti cheese with the softened butter using a silicone spatula or spoon until smooth and homogeneous.
  • 2. Add the strained yogurt, avocado flesh, and a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg. Mix well until fully incorporated.

Chill the Mixture

  • 3. Transfer the mixture to the refrigerator and let it chill for 30 minutes to firm up slightly, making it easier to shape.

Shape and Coat

  • 4. Remove the mixture from the fridge and roll into bite-sized balls, approximately the size of a large meatball.
  • 5. Place the coating ingredients in separate shallow dishes. Roll each cheese ball in the desired coating until evenly covered.

Serve

  • 6. Arrange the coated bites on a serving platter alongside toasted bread slices or grissini.

Alternative Serving Option

  • 7. Instead of shaping into balls, divide the cheese mixture into small bowls and sprinkle with the chosen coatings.
  • 8. For a unique presentation, serve the mixture inside halved avocados, after removing the pit and scooping out some flesh.
Cookix's Secrets

Alternative Coatings

  • Try crushed crackers, poppy seeds, or finely grated hard cheese for different textures.

Alternative Proteins

  • For a non-vegetarian twist, mix in finely chopped smoked salmon or prosciutto.

Bold Flavor Enhancements

  • Incorporate a touch of honey or balsamic glaze for a sweet-savory contrast.

Chilling

  • If the mixture is too soft to shape, refrigerate for an additional 15 minutes.

Healthier Variation

  • Replace butter with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

Serving

  • Pair with crisp white wine or ouzo for a traditional Greek meze experience.

Texture and Consistency

  • Ensure the butter is fully softened before mixing to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.