Crispy Halloumi, Green Apple and Oat Strips with Warm Honey Lemon Thyme Dip

Instructions

1. 1

   1. Preheat the oven to 220 °C / 425 °F and lightly grease a baking tray with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.

2. 2

   2. In a large bowl, mix the grated halloumi, grated and lightly squeezed green apple, quick oats, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, chives, 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, black pepper, and salt. Stir until you get a compact mixture; if it feels too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs.

3. 3

   3. Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes so the oats can absorb some of the moisture from the apple and egg.

4. 4

   4. With lightly oiled hands, shape 16 compact strips of similar size and place them on the prepared tray. Brush the tops with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.

5. 5

   5. Bake for 16 to 18 minutes at 220 °C / 425 °F, rotating the tray halfway through, until the strips are deeply golden and crisp around the edges.

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   6. While they bake, make the dip. In a small saucepan over very low heat or in a microwave-safe bowl, gently warm the Greek yogurt with the honey, lemon juice, lemon zest, and the remaining 1 teaspoon thyme for 30 to 60 seconds, without letting it boil. Add a pinch of salt and stir until smooth.

7. 7

   7. Let the strips rest for 2 minutes after baking so they can set and firm up. Serve hot with the warm honey, lemon, and thyme dip on the side.