Why You’ll Love Stuffed Zucchini Flowers Recipe
Stuffed zucchini flowers are a culinary gem—visually stunning and packed with flavor. Whether filled with a cheesy ricotta mixture or something more adventurous like herbed goat cheese or seafood, the soft petals offer a mild, almost buttery flavor that complements the richness of the filling. This recipe allows for plenty of flexibility and creativity, making it an ideal starter or light main dish. Plus, it’s a great way to use those beautiful blossoms before they fade.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Fresh zucchini flowers
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Ricotta cheese
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Grated Parmesan cheese
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Fresh herbs (such as basil, parsley, or thyme)
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Egg yolk
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Salt and pepper
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All-purpose flour
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Sparkling water or club soda (for the batter, if frying)
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Olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
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Lemon zest (optional)
Directions
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Gently clean the zucchini flowers by removing the stamens and any insects or debris. Avoid washing them under running water; instead, use a damp paper towel to clean.
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In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan, chopped herbs, egg yolk, salt, pepper, and optional lemon zest. Mix until smooth.
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Carefully open each flower and use a small spoon or piping bag to fill the center with the ricotta mixture. Gently twist the tops to seal.
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If frying, prepare a light batter by whisking flour and sparkling water until smooth.
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Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Dip the stuffed flowers into the batter and fry until golden and crisp, about 2–3 minutes per side.
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Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
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Alternatively, you can arrange the stuffed flowers on a baking tray, drizzle with olive oil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until lightly golden.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings and takes about 35 minutes to prepare and cook. That includes 15 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking.
Variations
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Cheese Swap: Try goat cheese, cream cheese, or mascarpone instead of ricotta.
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Add Protein: Mix in finely chopped cooked shrimp or crumbled bacon to the filling.
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Baked Instead of Fried: Skip the batter and bake for a lighter option.
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Herb Blend: Experiment with mint, chives, or dill for different flavor profiles.
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Gluten-Free: Use rice flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour for the batter.
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Spiced Up: Add a touch of chili flakes or finely minced garlic to the filling.
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Lemon Ricotta: Add extra lemon zest and a squeeze of juice to brighten the flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Stuffed zucchini flowers are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the flowers soggy.
FAQs
What do zucchini flowers taste like?
Zucchini flowers have a mild, slightly sweet flavor with a tender texture, making them perfect for stuffing and cooking.
Do you eat the whole flower?
Yes, the entire flower is edible once the stamens are removed. The petals are delicate and delicious.
Where can I find zucchini flowers?
You can often find them at farmers’ markets, specialty grocery stores, or in your own garden during zucchini season.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can stuff the flowers a few hours in advance and keep them refrigerated. Fry or bake just before serving.
What’s the best way to clean zucchini flowers?
Use a damp paper towel to gently wipe the petals and remove the stamens from inside the flower.
Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes, baking is a great alternative. Brush the flowers with olive oil and bake at 375°F (190°C) until golden.
What kind of oil is best for frying?
A neutral oil like vegetable or sunflower oil is ideal for frying. Olive oil can be used for added flavor but has a lower smoke point.
Can I freeze stuffed zucchini flowers?
It’s not recommended, as the delicate petals don’t freeze well and may become mushy upon thawing.
What goes well with stuffed zucchini flowers?
Serve with a light salad, tomato sauce, or a chilled glass of white wine for a perfect summer meal.
Are zucchini flowers healthy?
Yes, they’re low in calories and high in vitamins A and C. The filling can be adjusted to keep the dish light and nutritious.
Conclusion
Stuffed zucchini flowers are a beautiful and flavorful way to highlight the season’s bounty. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, a side dish, or a light main course, they bring elegance and a touch of gourmet flair to any table. With simple ingredients and endless variations, this recipe is a must-try when zucchini flowers are in season.
Stuffed Zucchini Flowers
Delicate and flavorful, Stuffed Zucchini Flowers are a gourmet appetizer featuring edible zucchini blossoms filled with a creamy cheese mixture, lightly battered, and fried to perfection. Perfect for spring and summer dining, this elegant dish is a must-try for any food lover seeking a light and irresistible treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Fried
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 12 fresh zucchini flowers
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sparkling water (cold)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- Gently clean zucchini flowers by removing the inner stamen and trimming the stems. Do not tear the petals.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, Parmesan, egg yolk, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Carefully fill each flower with the cheese mixture using a piping bag or small spoon. Twist the tops gently to seal.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and cold sparkling water to make a light batter.
- Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Dip stuffed flowers into the batter, allowing excess to drip off.
- Fry in batches for 2–3 minutes per side or until golden and crisp.
- Remove and drain on paper towels. Serve warm.
Notes
- Make sure the ricotta is well-drained to avoid a runny filling.
- You can add fresh herbs like basil or mint for extra flavor.
- Serve with a dipping sauce or a drizzle of honey for a sweet-savory contrast.
