Gourmet Spanakopita Cigars
Impress your date or your guests with these elegant and flavorful Gourmet Spanikopita Cigars! This unique twist on the classic Greek appetizer features a delicious filling of spinach, feta, cream cheese, cottage cheese and herbs rolled up in crispy phyllo dough. They're the perfect vegetarian appetizer for any occasion, whether you're hosting a dinner party or bringing a dish to share. In this recipe, you'll learn how to make the filling, roll the cigars, and bake them to crispy perfection. So why not give these savory and satisfying Spanikopita Cigars a try and bring a touch of gourmet flair to your next gathering?
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
Tips & Variations:
- 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.