Cranberry Feta Filo Cigars

Cranberry Feta Filo Cigars are a delightful appetizer or snack that combines the tangy and creamy flavors of feta cheese with the sweet and tart notes of cranberries, all wrapped up in crispy filo pastry. Here’s a simple recipe to make these delicious treats:

Ingredients:

• 1 package of filo pastry sheets (approximately 12 sheets)
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Melted butter for brushing
• Optional: honey for drizzling

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filo Sheets:
   • Ensure that the filo pastry sheets are fully thawed according to the package instructions.
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, chopped fresh parsley, and olive oil.
   • Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and a dash of black pepper. Be careful with the salt since feta is naturally salty.
3. Assemble the Cigars:
   • Lay out one sheet of filo pastry on a clean surface.
   • Brush the filo sheet with melted butter. You can use a pastry brush or your fingers.
   • Place another sheet of filo on top of the first one and brush it with butter as well.
   • Repeat this process until you have stacked about 4-5 filo sheets on top of each other.
4. Cut and Fill:
   • Use a knife to cut the layered filo sheets into strips, roughly 3 inches wide.
   • Place a spoonful of the feta and cranberry filling at the end of each strip.
   • Fold the sides over the filling and then roll the strip into a cigar-like shape, making sure the filling is enclosed. Continue this process with the remaining sheets and filling.
5. Bake:
   • Place the filo cigars on the prepared baking sheet, seam side down.
   • Brush the tops of the cigars with more melted butter.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the cigars are golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve:
   • Remove the cranberry feta filo cigars from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
   • If desired, drizzle them with a little honey for a touch of sweetness.
   • Serve them warm as an appetizer or snack. Enjoy!

These cranberry feta filo cigars are a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making them a crowd-pleaser at parties and gatherings.