Description
A playful and savory appetizer that combines the smoky flavor of grilled halloumi with sweet grape compote, wrapped in crispy phyllo dough to resemble a cigar. This dish breaks traditional rules by pairing cheese and fruit in an unexpected, elegant format.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- 8 oz halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/2-inch thick strips
- 1 cup red seedless grapes, halved
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- 8 sheets phyllo dough, thawed
- 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Olive oil for grilling
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush halloumi slices with olive oil and grill for 2-3 minutes per side until grill marks appear. Set aside.
- In a small saucepan, combine grapes, honey, and thyme. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until grapes soften and release juices. Stir in walnuts and season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.
- Lay one phyllo sheet on a clean surface, brush lightly with melted butter. Place a grilled halloumi strip and a spoonful of grape compote at one end. Roll tightly into a cigar shape, tucking in edges as you go. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place cigars on a baking sheet, seam-side down, and brush tops with remaining butter. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden and crispy. Serve warm.
Notes
You can customize the seasonings to taste.