If you're looking to impress your guests with a dish that embodies the essence of Italian cuisine, look no further than Fried Stuffed Zucchini Blossoms! These delicate, golden delights are not only a feast for the eyes but also a burst of flavor in every bite. Imagine tender zucchini blossoms filled with a creamy, cheesy mixture, all perfectly fried to crispy perfection. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to elevate your culinary game. Ready to dive into the world of gourmet cooking? Let's get started!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 zucchini blossoms
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 cup flour
- 1 cup sparkling water
- Oil for frying
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the zucchini blossoms. Gently rinse them under cool water and carefully pat dry with a clean towel. Set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix until well combined and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Using a small spoon, carefully fill each zucchini blossom with the cheese mixture, being careful not to overfill. Twist the ends of the blossoms to seal in the filling.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and sparkling water until a smooth batter forms. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Heat a few inches of oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, dip each stuffed zucchini blossom into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off. Carefully place the blossoms into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Once the blossoms are golden brown, remove them from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Serve the fried stuffed zucchini blossoms hot, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of salt, if desired.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Blossoms: For the best flavor and texture, select fresh zucchini blossoms that are still closed and vibrant in color. Avoid any that appear wilted or damaged.
- Prepare Ahead: You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just fill the blossoms right before frying to keep them fresh and crispy.
- Light and Crispy Batter: The key to a light and crispy batter is the sparkling water! It adds airiness to the batter, resulting in a delightful crunch when fried.
- Oil Temperature Matters: Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the blossoms. If the oil is too cool, the blossoms will absorb excess oil and become greasy instead of crispy.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature and lead to uneven cooking.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Serve your fried zucchini blossoms with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and a dash of sea salt for that gourmet touch.
- Pair with Dipping Sauce: Consider serving these beauties with a light dipping sauce, such as marinara or a lemon aioli, to enhance the flavors even further.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 65mg
