The aroma of baked pastries fills the kitchen as the golden brown goodness emerges from the oven. Crispy Zucchini Cigars with Feta and Mozzarella Cheese is a delightful recipe that takes just about 30 minutes to prepare and bake. The combination of fresh zucchini, creamy feta, and stretchy mozzarella wrapped in crispy brick pastry creates a satisfying treat that’s sure to please anyone.
This recipe is perfect for those looking for a tasty appetizer or snack, especially during gatherings or family meals. You can make these tasty cigars ahead of time and store them in the fridge, ready to pop into the oven when you need a warm, savory bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The crispy brick pastry adds a delightful crunch to every bite.
- A perfect blend of creamy feta and mozzarella offers a rich, cheesy filling.
- Fresh zucchini keeps the dish light while adding moisture.
- Easy to prepare and bake makes it a quick option for any occasion.
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious recipe:
For the Filling
- 3 medium zucchinis, grated
- 200g feta cheese, crumbled
- 150g mozzarella cheese, grated
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pastry
- 8 sheets of brick pastry
- Olive oil for brushing
Use fresh zucchini for the best flavor.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Replace feta with ricotta for a milder taste.
- Use spring roll wrappers instead of brick pastry.
- Swap mozzarella for cheddar if preferred.
- Add herbs like dill or parsley for extra flavor.
How to Make It
Prepare your kitchen for a delicious treat with these simple steps.
1. Preheat
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) to ensure it’s hot and ready.
2. Sauté
In a pan, heat some olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onion and garlic until soft.
3. Cook Zucchini
Add the grated zucchinis to the pan and cook until they release their moisture and become tender.
4. Cool Mixture
Remove from heat and let the zucchini mixture cool slightly.
5. Combine Ingredients
In a bowl, mix the cooked zucchini with feta cheese, mozzarella, and beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper to create the filling.
6. Prepare Pastry
Take a sheet of brick pastry and cut it in half. Place a spoonful of the zucchini mixture at one end and roll it up tightly into a cigar shape.
7. Brush with Oil
Brush the outside of the rolled pastry with olive oil and place it on a baking sheet.
8. Repeat
Repeat with the remaining sheets and filling until everything is used up.
9. Bake
Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
10. Serve
Serve warm as an appetizer or light dish, and enjoy!
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, they become soggy when thawed.
Reheat: Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Ensure zucchinis are well-drained after cooking to avoid sogginess.
- Roll the cigars tightly to prevent them from unrolling during baking.
- Experiment with different cheeses or spices for a unique flavor.
- Brush with olive oil generously for extra crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a tangy yogurt dip for added flavor.
- Serve as a starter at parties or family gatherings.
- Great alongside a fresh salad for a light meal.
