Cigarette-Style Olive Bites with Berry Drizzle

1.Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2.In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth and well combined.

3.Take a phyllo pastry sheet and brush it lightly with melted butter. Place another sheet on top and brush it again with butter. Repeat this process until you have layered 4 sheets together.

4.Cut the layered phyllo pastry into strips about 3 inches wide.

5.Place a teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture at one end of each strip, followed by an olive (either green or black).

6.Roll the phyllo pastry over the olive and cream cheese mixture to form a tight cylinder, resembling a cigarette. Seal the edges with a little melted butter.

7.Place the rolled olive bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with more melted butter.

8.Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

9.While the olive bites are baking, prepare the berry drizzle. In a small saucepan, combine the mixed berries, honey, and balsamic vinegar. Cook over medium heat until the berries break down and the mixture thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.

10.Once the olive bites are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

11.Drizzle the berry sauce over the olive bites and garnish with fresh mint leaves before serving.