Crispy white bean, leek and smoked cheese fritters with lemon-honey chive dip

Instructions

1. 1

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

2. 2

   Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped leek and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until tender. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds more. Remove from the heat and let it cool slightly.

3. 3

   Place the white beans in a large bowl and mash them with a fork or masher until you get a rustic texture with a few small chunks still visible.

4. 4

   Add the sautéed leek and garlic, grated smoked cheese, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, sweet paprika, black pepper, and half of the salt to the bowl. Mix well until a shapeable mixture forms. If the mixture feels too soft, add a little more breadcrumbs.

5. 5

   With lightly damp hands, shape 12 small fritters or thick discs and place them on the prepared tray.

6. 6

   Bake for 10 minutes at 220 °C / 425 °F. Remove the tray, carefully flip the fritters, and bake for 8 more minutes, or until golden and crisp on the outside.

7. 7

   Meanwhile, make the dip by mixing the Greek yogurt, chives, honey, lemon zest, lemon juice, and remaining salt in a small bowl. Stir until creamy and smooth.

8. 8

   Serve the fritters hot or warm with the lemon-honey chive dip.