Description
Elevate your meal with this baked stuffed zucchini roll! This stunning dish features a light zucchini base filled with creamy cheese and optional ham or vegetables, rolled into an elegant log and baked to golden perfection. Perfect as an appetizer, main course, or side dish, it’s versatile, nutritious, and guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
For the Zucchini Base:
- 3 medium zucchinis
- 5 eggs
- 5 tablespoons Parmigiano (Parmesan cheese)
- Salt, to taste
- Extra virgin olive oil, for greasing
- Fresh parsley, chopped
For the Filling:
- 250 g Philadelphia or cream cheese
- 200 g cooked ham (optional)
- Other vegetables or thinly sliced tomatoes (for a vegetarian version)
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. Prepare the Zucchini Base:
- Preheat the 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 sprinkle it with salt. Let it sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- Squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a clean kitchen towel or your hands.
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs, then add the grated zucchini, Parmesan cheese, salt, and parsley. Mix thoroughly.
- Spread the mixture evenly onto the baking sheet, forming a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the base is set and slightly golden.
2. Prepare the Filling:
- In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, salt, and parsley. Mix until smooth.
- If using cooked ham, slice it thinly. For a vegetarian version, prepare thin slices of tomatoes or roasted vegetables.
3. Assemble the Roll:
- Let the baked zucchini base cool slightly, then transfer it to a clean sheet of parchment paper or surface.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the base.
- Add the cooked ham or vegetables as a layer on top of the cream cheese.
4. Roll the Zucchini:
- Using the parchment paper to guide you, roll the zucchini base tightly into a log.
- Place the roll into a greased baking dish.
5. Bake Again:
- Brush the outside of the roll with extra virgin olive oil.
- Bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and golden.
6. Serve:
- Let the roll cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.
Notes
- Customize the Filling: Use ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, or roasted vegetables for a twist.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the roll for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat before serving.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the zucchini roll in advance and bake it just before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian