GOURMET & HIGH PROTEIN SPANIKOPITA CIGARS
The Intro
Step aside, ordinary appetizers! Today, we’re taking the beloved Spanakopita and transforming it into elegant and flavorful bites perfect for impressing your guests. These Gourmet Spanakopita Cigars boast a crispy phyllo exterior, a vibrant spinach and cheese filling (with a protein punch), and a touch of sophistication that will elevate any gathering or date night.
The combination of savory spinach, creamy cheese, and crispy phyllo creates a delightful texture and a harmonious blend of flavors that will tantalize even the most discerning palates.
The Connection
There’s nothing like crispy phyllo dough to bring an elegant twist to a date night or dinner party. The key to krafting this recipe was to find a way to take the essence of Spanakopita into handheld bite size pieces.
There’s a delightful contrast between the creamy spinach and feta filling and the crispy phyllo exterior, making these gourmet Spanakopita Cigars a sophisticated choice for any occasion. Perfect as an appetizer or part of a mezze platter, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress your significant other or your guests with their elegant presentation and rich flavors.
Whether enjoyed as a tasty snack or served alongside other Mediterranean delights, these cigars offer a unique and flavorful spin on a classic dish. My favorite way to eat them is with a drizzle of honey!
The Process
The easiest part about this recipe is everything in the filling can be thrown into the food processor to achieve a smooth texture. Then, to give these cigars a lighter texture and taste, layer just 5 phyllo dough sheets and spread the mixture with the back of a spoon or an offset spatula.
Cut them into long, skinny triangles, roll them up and place them on a baking sheet. Then you are just one sheet pan, a little butter, and a few minutes away from crispy perfection.
Why You’ll Love Them
Unique Twist on a Familiar Favorite: Offers a modern take on a classic recipe, satisfying cravings while surprising taste buds.
Elegant & Customizable: Perfect for cocktail parties, potlucks, or even fancy dinners, with options to personalize the filling and presentation.
Flavorful & Satisfying: Packed with savory spinach, creamy cheese, and a hint of lemon, offering a delightful burst of taste in every bite.
Versatile & Prep-Ahead: Can be assembled in advance and baked just before serving, ensuring stress-free entertaining.
Ready to impress with your culinary prowess? Let’s get cooking!
Gourmet Spanakopita Cigars
Equipment
- Pizza cutter (optional)
- Pastry brush
- Offset spatula or spoon
- Food Processor
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 1 pound frozen spinach thawed and squeezed dry
- 1/2 cup cream cheese or ricotta ricotta is currently on recall so I used cream cheese
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/2 tablespoon chopped fresh or dried dill
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint
- 1 clove garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cigars:
- 1 package phyllo dough thawed according to package instructions
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- Lemon zest and juice
- Sesame seeds and chopped fresh herbs for garnish optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In the food processor, blend spinach, cream cheese, cottage cheese, feta, Parmesan, red onion, dill, mint, garlic, nutmeg, pepper, and salt. Blend until smooth.
- Assemble the Cigars: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lay out a sheet of phyllo dough and brush lightly with melted butter. Repeat with 4 additional sheets, creating a stack of 5 buttered sheets.
- With the offset spatula, spread the filling in one thin layer all over the buttered sheet. Cut corner to corner and halve each triangle until you have 16 triangle shapes. Roll up each tightly, creating a cigar shape.
- Place cigars on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush tops with remaining melted butter and sprinkle with sesame seeds, if desired.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Notes
- For a richer flavor: Drizzle a touch of olive oil over the cigars before baking.
- For a sweeter flavor: Drizzle with honey while hot.
- Vegan Option: Use vegan cheese substitutes.
- Spicy Delight: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a touch of heat.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve warm with a squeeze of lemon and a dollop of yogurt for dipping.
- Presentation Ideas: Arrange cigars on a platter with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a visually appealing appetizer.
