Cigars in Brick Pastry with Spinach and Goat Cheese: A Deliciously Easy Treat

Are you ready to roll into a flavor adventure? Cigars in brick pastry with spinach and goat cheese are here to revolutionize your snack game! This delightful recipe is a fantastic reminder that elegance can indeed come from simplicity. Whether you’re hosting brunch, looking for a quick appetizer, or just wanting something tasty to treat yourself, these crispy, cheesy bites encapsulate a perfect duo of flavors that’ll charm both your taste buds and your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Now, I know what you might be thinking: “Bricks? For food?” But rest assured, it’s not as scary as it sounds! Brick pastry (or phyllo if you’re feeling fancy) is light, flaky, and oh-so-easy to work with. Combine that with the robust flavor of goat cheese and the earthiness of spinach, and you’ve got a dish that impresses without the fuss. Trust me, this dish will make your kitchen smell like heaven on a rainy day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start, gather these tasty ingredients:

1 package of brick pastry (you can find this at your local grocery store or international market)
3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: fresh herbs (like dill or parsley) for extra flavor

Steps to Create Your Culinary Masterpiece

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is one of those quick steps that transforms any dish from “meh” to magnificent.
Sauté the spinach and onions: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until they’re softened, about 3-4 minutes. Toss in the spinach and cook just until wilted, about another 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Let this mixture cool slightly.
Mix it up: In a bowl, combine the cooled spinach mixture with the crumbled goat cheese. Add any fresh herbs you might have lurking in your fridge — they’ll brighten the flavors!
Prepare the brick pastry: Unroll the brick pastry sheets and cut them into strips about 4-6 inches wide (think the size of a cigar — we’re going for authenticity here!).
Assemble the cigars: Place a spoonful of the spinach and goat cheese filling at one end of each strip of pastry. Roll tightly, tucking in the sides as you go for a neat finish. Do your best not to let the filling escape — we want all that goodness contained!
Bake: Place the cigars on a lined baking sheet. Brush lightly with olive oil for that golden-brown finish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re crispy and golden.
Serve and enjoy: Let them cool for a few minutes, then serve warm. They’re fantastic on their own, but a light dipping sauce (like a yogurt-herb dip) can take them over the top!

Cooking Tips

Don’t worry if your cigars look a little lumpy — it’s all part of the magic! The crunch of the phyllo pastry will make up for any imperfections.
Have leftover filling? Add it to an omelet or toss it with pasta for a quick lunch the next day—waste not, want not!
And if you’re fancying a twist, feel free to substitute goat cheese with feta or ricotta — delicious results guaranteed!

A Personal Touch

I can still remember the first time I made these little delights. It was a dreary Sunday afternoon, and my sister Patricia was coming over for a quick catch-up. I wanted to whip up something special but didn’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. When I finally pulled these golden beauties out of the oven, Patricia’s eyes lit up. They became our go-to snack for when life calls for something easy yet impressive!

FAQs

Can I substitute the spinach in this recipe?
Absolutely! Kale or Swiss chard are fantastic alternatives. Just make sure to season them well!

How can I store leftover cigars?
Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 350°F until they’re warm and crispy again!

Can I freeze these cigars?
Yes! You can freeze them before baking. Just make sure to layer them between parchment paper to prevent sticking, and bake from frozen — they may need a few minutes longer.

So there you have it! Cigars in brick pastry with spinach and goat cheese are not just tasty; they’re versatile, too! With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this recipe is sure to become a cherished staple in your kitchen. Ready to give it a try? I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out!

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