Mediterranean Feta & Roasted Red Pepper Cigars with Harissa Honey

If you’re craving a snack that bursts with vibrant flavors and a delightful combination of textures, then this Mediterranean Feta & Roasted Red Pepper Cigars with Harissa Honey are about to become your new obsession. This Delicious Recipe brings together creamy, tangy feta cheese with sweet roasted red peppers, all encased in a crispy, golden wrapper with a subtle heat from harissa-infused honey. It’s the perfect balance of savory and sweet, crunchy and creamy, making every bite an absolute joy. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply indulging yourself, these cigars will impress and satisfy with their exciting taste and irresistible crunch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Delicious Recipe lies in its simplicity, with each ingredient playing a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture that shine through every bite.

• 8 oz Feta: Choose a block of quality feta for creamy, tangy richness that forms the filling’s base.
• ¼ cup Finely chopped Roasted Red Peppers: Adds a sweet, smoky depth and beautiful color that brightens the filling.
• 1 tsp Oregano: This herb brings a traditional Mediterranean aroma and a hint of earthiness to complement the cheese and peppers.
• Honey: A natural sweetener that pairs beautifully with harissa, balancing heat and accentuating the flavors.
• ½ tsp Harissa paste: A fiery North African chili paste that infuses exotic warmth and complexity into the honey drizzle.
• Phyllo pastry sheets or spring roll wrappers: These will wrap up the filling in crisp golden cigars, creating the irresistible crunchy texture.

How to Make Delicious Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by crumbling the feta into a bowl and folding in the finely chopped roasted red peppers and oregano. This combination creates a creamy, flavorful mixture that’s bursting with Mediterranean character. Be sure to chop the peppers finely so each cigar has an even burst of sweetness and color.

Step 2: Assemble the Cigars

Lay out your phyllo or spring roll wrappers and place a spoonful of the feta filling at one end. Roll them tightly into cigar shapes, sealing the edges carefully to ensure they hold their form while cooking. The contrast of the delicate, crisp wrapper with the creamy inside is what makes these cigars so addictive.

Step 3: Cook to Golden Perfection

Fry or bake the cigars until they are beautifully golden and crisp. This step brings that signature crunch that contrasts so well with the smooth filling. Pay close attention during cooking to avoid burning, as the pastries are thin and cook quickly.

Step 4: Prepare the Harissa Honey Drizzle

While the cigars are cooking, mix honey with the harissa paste until fully combined. This sweet and spicy drizzle adds an exotic North African twist that is both unexpected and delightful, elevating the whole dish.

Step 5: Serve and Drizzle

Once the cigars are perfectly crispy, transfer them to a serving plate and generously drizzle the harissa honey over the top. This last step transforms the dish from great to unforgettable, marrying sweet heat with savory filling for flawless harmony.

How to Serve Delicious Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or mint add a refreshing pop of color and brightness that perfectly balances the richness of the feta. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds can also add a pleasant nutty crunch and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

For a complete Mediterranean feast, serve these cigars alongside a crisp Greek salad or a bowl of marinated olives. Light, vibrant sides offset the richness and create a beautifully rounded meal experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack the cigars in a rustic basket lined with parchment paper for a casual gathering, or arrange them elegantly on a slate board with small bowls of extra harissa honey and tzatziki for dipping. The visual presentation can heighten anticipation and make the experience feel even more special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the cooked cigars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 2 days, maintaining their delicious flavors though the crispiness may soften slightly.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the uncooked cigars arranged on a baking sheet to prevent sticking, then transfer to a freezer bag once frozen. This way you can cook them fresh whenever you wish. They freeze well for up to 1 month and still turn out delicious after baking or frying straight from frozen.

Reheating

To bring back that signature crispness, reheat leftover or frozen cooked cigars in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it will make the pastry soggy and less enjoyable.

FAQs

Can I use other cheeses instead of feta?

Feta is ideal because of its crumbly texture and salty tang, but you could experiment with ricotta or goat cheese for a milder flavor. Just keep the filling firm enough to hold when rolled.

Is harissa paste very spicy?

Harissa ranges from mild to moderately spicy depending on the brand. Start with ½ teaspoon and adjust to your heat preference. The honey helps balance and mellow the heat nicely.

Can these cigars be baked instead of fried?

Absolutely! Baking is a lighter option and works well to achieve a crispy texture. Brush the cigars lightly with oil before baking for best results.

How long do the cigars take to cook?

Typically, frying or baking them takes about 15–20 minutes until golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning since phyllo cooks quickly.

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Yes, the feta and pepper filling can be made a day ahead and refrigerated. Just assemble and cook the cigars fresh for optimal crispness.

Final Thoughts

This Delicious Recipe combines wonderful Mediterranean flavors with a playful twist of harissa honey that will captivate your taste buds and delight anyone you share these cigars with. Don’t hesitate to try making them for your next gathering or as a fun treat to spice up an ordinary day. Once you do, these Mediterranean Feta & Roasted Red Pepper Cigars will surely earn a special place on your favorite recipe list.