Zucchini Flowers Recipe

Certainly! Zucchini flowers, also known as zucchini blossoms, are a delicate and delightful treat. Below is a simple recipe for stuffed and fried zucchini flowers.

Stuffed and Fried Zucchini Flowers

Ingredients

• Zucchini Flowers (10-12 blossoms, gently washed and stamens removed)
• Fresh Ricotta Cheese (1 cup)
• Parmesan Cheese (1/4 cup, grated)
• Lemon Zest (1 tsp)
• Fresh Basil or Parsley (a handful, finely chopped)
• Salt and Pepper (to taste)
• All-Purpose Flour (1 cup)
• Sparkling Water or Club Soda (1 cup, very cold)
• Vegetable Oil or Olive Oil (for frying)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, lemon zest, and chopped herbs (basil or parsley).
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Mix well until the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
2. Stuff the Flowers:
   • Gently open each zucchini flower and spoon in a small amount of the ricotta mixture. Be careful not to overfill them.
   • Twist the ends of the petals slightly to seal the filling inside.
3. Prepare the Batter:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and very cold sparkling water until the mixture is smooth. The consistency should be similar to heavy cream.
   • Season with a pinch of salt if desired.
4. Heat the Oil:
   • In a deep frying pan or skillet, heat about an inch of vegetable or olive oil over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a small drop of the batter sizzles and turns golden within a few seconds.
5. Fry the Flowers:
   • Dip each stuffed zucchini flower into the batter, making sure it is fully coated.
   • Carefully place the battered flowers into the hot oil. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding.
   • Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they are golden and crispy.
   • Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried flowers to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
6. Serve:
   • Serve the fried zucchini flowers hot, with a wedge of lemon or a light sprinkle of sea salt.

Additional Tips:

• Alternative Fillings: You can get creative with the filling by adding herbs like thyme or oregano, or by incorporating some finely chopped garlic or anchovies for an extra flavor boost.
• Baking Option: For a lighter version, you can also bake the stuffed flowers in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until they’re golden and crispy.

Enjoy your deliciously fresh zucchini flowers!