Crispy Zucchini Cigars with Feta Cheese
Looking for a delicious and crunchy snack? These Crispy Zucchini Cigars with Feta Cheese are golden and crunchy on the outside, with a creamy, cheesy zucchini filling inside. Perfect as an easy appetizer, party snack, or a Mediterranean-inspired vegetarian dish!
Ingredients:
1.1 lbs (500g) fresh zucchini grated
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
7 oz (200g) feta cheese (or melting cheese like mozzarella or Emmental), shredded
Olive oil, for frying
Brick pastry sheets (or phyllo dough sheets as a substitute)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini Filling:
Grate the fresh zucchini and place it in a colander. Sprinkle lightly with salt and let it sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Then, squeeze out all the water using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
2. Sauté Aromatics:
In a skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and translucent. Remove from heat.
3. Mix the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, sautéed onion and garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, and shredded feta cheese. Mix until fully combined.
4. Roll the Zucchini Cigars:
Cut the brick pastry (or phyllo dough) sheets into halves or quarters, depending on their size. Place a spoonful of the filling on one edge of each sheet. Roll tightly into cigar shapes, folding the sides inward to seal securely.
5. Fry Until Crispy:
Heat a shallow layer of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the zucchini cigars until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these crispy zucchini and feta cigars warm with Greek yogurt, tzatziki sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Crispy Zucchini Cigars, Zucchini and Feta Cheese Appetizers, Mediterranean Zucchini Snacks, Easy Vegetarian Snack Recipes, Phyllo Dough Appetizer Recipes
