Crispy Zucchini Cigars with Feta and Mozzarella are a light yet indulgent Mediterranean-inspired appetizer. Thin zucchini strips are wrapped around a creamy cheese filling, rolled into cigar shapes, and baked or fried until golden and crunchy. The salty tang of feta combined with the stretchy melt of mozzarella creates a perfectly balanced bite. These zucchini cigars are ideal as a starter, snack, or party finger food and pair beautifully with yogurt or garlic dipping sauces.
⏱ Time & Yield
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
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Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
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Serves: 4–6
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Yield: 12–14 cigars
🛒 Ingredients
Zucchini Wrap
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Medium zucchini – 2 large
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Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
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Salt – ½ teaspoon
Cheese Filling
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Feta cheese (crumbled) – ¾ cup
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Mozzarella cheese (grated) – ¾ cup
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Garlic (minced) – 1 clove
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Fresh parsley or dill (chopped) – 2 tablespoons
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Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
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Dried oregano – ½ teaspoon
Coating
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Breadcrumbs or panko – ½ cup
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Parmesan cheese (optional) – 2 tablespoons
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
Slice zucchini lengthwise into thin strips using a mandoline or sharp knife. Lightly sprinkle with salt and let rest for 10 minutes to release moisture. Pat dry with paper towels and brush lightly with olive oil.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Filling
In a bowl, mix feta, mozzarella, garlic, herbs, black pepper, and oregano until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Cigars
Place a spoonful of cheese filling at one end of each zucchini strip. Roll tightly into cigar shapes. Roll each cigar in breadcrumbs (and Parmesan if using) for extra crunch.
Step 4: Cook
🔥 Oven Method (Healthier)
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Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F)
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Place cigars on a lined baking tray
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Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping once, until golden and crispy
🍳 Pan-Fry Method
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Heat olive oil in a pan
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Fry cigars on medium heat until golden on all sides
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Drain on paper towels
🍽 Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with:
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Garlic yogurt dip 🥣
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Tzatziki sauce
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Lemon-herb yogurt
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Fresh green salad
🥗 Nutrition (Approx. per serving)
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Calories: 220–240 kcal
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Protein: 10 g
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Fat: 15 g
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Carbohydrates: 12 g
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Calcium: High
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Fiber: 2 g
(Values are approximate and depend on cooking method.)
💡 Tips & Variations
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Add chili flakes for a spicy kick 🌶
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Use phyllo pastry for extra crunch
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Air-fry at 190°C for 15 minutes
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Replace mozzarella with halloumi for firmer texture
❓ Q & A
Q1: Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Q2: Can I freeze zucchini cigars?
Yes, freeze before baking. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5 extra minutes.
Q3: Are these gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip coating.
Q4: Can I use eggplant instead of zucchini?
Absolutely! Thinly sliced eggplant works very well.
Q5: Are these suitable for a Mediterranean diet?
Yes! Especially when baked and made with olive oil and fresh herbs.
