Introduction
Good morning, friends! Today, we are making a fantastic stuffed zucchini roll that is baked in the oven. It’s healthy, light, and has a wonderful taste of zucchini, cheese, and cooked ham. This recipe is simple, quick, and economical, but with a great effect. Perfect for impressing your guests!
Ingredients
- 3 medium zucchini
- 5 eggs
- 5 tablespoons of Parmigiano (Parmesan cheese)
- Salt, to taste
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- 250 g Philadelphia or other cream cheese
- 200 g cooked ham (optional; for a vegetarian version, you can add other vegetables or thinly sliced tomatoes)
Instructions
- Prepare the Zucchini:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with extra virgin olive oil.
- Grate the zucchini and place them in a colander. Sprinkle with a bit of salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the zucchini using a clean kitchen towel or your hands.
- Make the Zucchini Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs. Add the grated zucchini, Parmesan cheese, a pinch of salt, and chopped parsley. Mix well until all the ingredients are well combined.
- Spread the zucchini mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet, forming a rectangle. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the mixture is set and slightly golden.
- Prepare the Filling:
- While the zucchini base is baking, prepare the filling. In a bowl, mix the Philadelphia (or other cream cheese) with a little bit of salt and some chopped parsley.
- Assemble the Roll:
- Once the zucchini base is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Carefully transfer it to a clean sheet of parchment paper or a clean surface.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the zucchini base. If using cooked ham, place the slices evenly over the cream cheese layer. For a vegetarian version, add other vegetables or thinly sliced tomatoes.
- Roll the Zucchini:
- Starting from one end, carefully roll up the zucchini base, using the parchment paper to help guide and keep the roll tight. Once fully rolled, transfer the roll to a baking dish.
- Bake the Stuffed Zucchini Roll:
- Brush the outside of the roll with a little extra virgin olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the roll is heated through and slightly golden on the outside.
- Serve:
- Remove the roll from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, garnished with extra chopped parsley if desired.
Conclusion
This Baked Stuffed Zucchini Roll is a delightful and impressive dish that combines the fresh taste of zucchini with creamy cheese and savory ham. It’s perfect for a light lunch, dinner, or even as an appetizer for a special occasion. Enjoy this healthy and flavorful recipe with your family and friends!