Description

Imagine tender, smoky zucchini rounds topped with a creamy, tangy cottage cheese filling infused with fresh dill, crunchy walnuts, and garlic. This Zucchini Appetizer with Cottage Cheese is the ultimate healthy yet indulgent snack. Perfect for gatherings or a light treat, it’s a quick, elegant dish that’s sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients

For the zucchini:

1 zucchini (300 g)
0.3 teaspoon salt
Ground black pepper to taste
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the filling:

180 g cottage cheese
30 g walnuts, chopped
15 g fresh dill, chopped
50 g sour cream
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 pinches of salt

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Instructions

Prepare the Zucchini

Wash the zucchini thoroughly and slice it into thin rounds, about 1/4 inch thick.
Toss the zucchini slices in a large bowl with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika to evenly coat them.
Preheat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Place the zucchini slices in the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until tender and lightly browned.
Transfer the cooked zucchini to a plate and let them cool slightly.

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, chopped walnuts, fresh dill, sour cream, minced garlic, and salt.
Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated. Adjust the salt if needed.

Assemble the Appetizer

Place a spoonful of the cottage cheese mixture on top of each zucchini slice.
Spread the filling evenly over the surface using the back of a spoon.
Arrange the zucchini appetizers on a serving platter for an elegant presentation.

Serve

Garnish the appetizers with extra chopped fresh dill for a pop of color and flavor.
Serve immediately and enjoy this delicious, healthy treat.

Notes

Customize the Filling: Add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or chives for a new twist on flavor.
Cooking Alternatives: You can bake the zucchini slices in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes if you prefer a hands-off method.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days, though they’re best enjoyed fresh.
Vegan Option: Replace cottage cheese and sour cream with plant-based alternatives like almond ricotta or cashew cream for a vegan version.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired