Cigares Croustillants aux Courgettes, Feta & Mozzarella

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These zucchini cigars are quick to prepare, fun to serve, and absolutely delicious. They’re lighter than pastry-based rolls but still wonderfully indulgent. The crispy outside paired with the cheesy filling makes them ideal for dinner parties, family meals, or a simple weeknight treat.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 medium zucchinis

• 100 g crumbled feta

• 100 g shredded mozzarella

• 1 egg

• 2 tablespoons grated parmesan

• 1 garlic clove, pressed

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• Salt and pepper

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Optional: breadcrumbs for extra crispiness

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 200 °C (400 °F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Wash the zucchinis, trim the ends, and slice into thin long strips using a mandoline or sharp knife.

3. Place the slices on a towel, sprinkle lightly with salt, and let sit for 10 minutes to release excess water. Pat dry.

4. In a bowl, mix together feta, mozzarella, egg, parmesan, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.

5. Place a small line of filling on each zucchini strip and roll tightly into a cigar shape.

6. Brush the rolls with olive oil. For extra crunch, coat lightly in breadcrumbs.

7. Arrange on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes until golden and crispy.

8. Serve warm with tomato sauce or a lemony yogurt dip.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12 zucchini cigars.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: 30–35 minutes

Variations

• Replace mozzarella with cheddar, gruyère, or goat cheese for a stronger flavor.

• Add chopped spinach to the filling for extra greens.

• Use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crunchier texture.

• For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip the coating.

• Add a pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheat in the oven at 180 °C (350 °F) for about 5 minutes to regain crispiness.
Avoid microwaving, as it will make them soft.

FAQs

1. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can roll them ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can they be frozen?

Yes, freeze them uncooked, then bake straight from frozen, adding a few minutes of extra cook time.

3. Is the breadcrumb coating necessary?

No, it’s optional. They’ll still be crispy without it, but breadcrumbs add extra crunch.

4. Can I pan-fry them instead of baking?

Yes, shallow fry in olive oil until golden, but baking is lighter and more even.

5. What cheese can replace feta?

Goat cheese, ricotta, or even mild blue cheese can work well.

6. Can I use different herbs?

Definitely—mint, dill, or cilantro are great alternatives to parsley.

7. Are these kid-friendly?

Yes, they’re cheesy, crispy, and mild in flavor, which kids usually enjoy.

8. What can I serve them with?

They pair well with tomato sauce, yogurt dip, or a simple green salad.

9. How do I keep the rolls from falling apart?

Make sure to pat the zucchini slices dry and roll them tightly. Toothpicks can help hold them in place.

10. Can I make them vegan?

Yes, use vegan feta and mozzarella alternatives, and replace the egg with a flax egg or cornstarch slurry.

Conclusion

Ultra crispy zucchini cigars with feta and mozzarella are a fun, flavorful way to transform simple ingredients into an impressive dish. With their crunchy bite and gooey filling, they strike the perfect balance of lightness and indulgence. Serve them as a party appetizer, a family snack, or a creative side dish—either way, they’ll disappear fast.

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