Stuffed zucchini with melted cheese

Stuffed Zucchini with Melted Cheese

If you are looking for a delicious recipe that combines a crispy texture with a creamy and flavorful filling, you have come to the right place! Stuffed zucchini with melted cheese is an excellent choice for a light yet impressive dinner. This recipe is simple, quick, and perfect for impressing your family or friends.

Total preparation time: 60 minutes
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 2-3 young zucchinis (about 200 g each)
- 6 slices of melted cheese
- 1/2 pickled bell pepper
- 2 peppers (preferably colored for a more attractive appearance)
- 1 egg
- 4 tablespoons of flour
- 4 slices of bread (baguette or your preferred type)
- 3 teaspoons of sesame seeds
- 150 ml oil (for frying)
- Salt, pepper, steak spices, paprika (to taste)

Preparation:

1. Prepare the zucchinis: Start by peeling the zucchinis. Use a sharp knife or a peeler to remove the outer layer. Then, with a special corer or a regular knife, carefully scoop out the center of the zucchinis, being careful not to break them. This will create a generous space for the filling. Season the zucchinis with salt and pepper and let them sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.

2. Prepare the filling: While the zucchinis are seasoning, take the slices of melted cheese and roll them around the strips of pickled bell pepper. This combination will add a savory taste and an interesting texture.

3. The batter: In a bowl, beat the egg with a whisk, add the flour and a little water, mixing until you get a batter slightly thicker than pancake batter. A quick alternative is to use a blender to achieve a smooth mixture.

4. Fill the zucchinis: Carefully insert two rolled slices of melted cheese into each zucchini. Then, seal the ends of the zucchinis with a round slice cut from the scooped-out center. This step is essential to keep the filling inside during frying.

5. Coat the zucchinis: Spread the remaining batter on a plate and coat the zucchinis in it, making sure they are well covered. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top, which will add a crunchy note and an appetizing appearance.

6. Fry the zucchinis: In a non-stick skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Place the zucchinis with the sesame side down and sprinkle some on top as well, then let them fry for about 5 minutes on low heat. Turn them occasionally until they are nicely browned on all sides. The golden color is key for a perfectly crispy texture.

7. Prepare the baguettes: While the zucchinis are frying, slice the baguette and dip them in the remaining batter. Fry them in the leftover oil from the zucchinis, cooking for 1-2 minutes on each side until they turn golden.

8. Serving: Remove the zucchinis onto paper towels to absorb excess oil. Arrange them on a platter along with the fried baguettes. Cut one of the zucchinis into slices about 2 cm thick and arrange it nicely on the platter. Garnish with fresh herbs, peppers, and pickled bell peppers for a vibrant look.

9. Enjoy the result: Now that you have finished, it’s time to enjoy a delicious meal! Stuffed zucchini with melted cheese is an excellent choice for lunch or dinner, and the combination of flavors will surely surprise.

Useful tips:

- Choosing zucchinis: Opt for young zucchinis, which have a finer texture and a sweeter taste. Larger zucchinis can be more bitter and have a more fibrous texture.
- Variations: You can experiment with different types of cheese. Goat cheese or mozzarella can add an interesting note. Also, add fresh herbs like basil or dill to the filling for an extra flavor boost.
- Suitable drinks: This dish pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade, which will complement the flavors.

Calories and nutritional benefits:

This recipe for stuffed zucchini with melted cheese is not only tasty but also healthy. Zucchinis are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, being low in calories. A serving contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the oil used. The addition of melted cheese provides calcium, while the bell pepper and peppers contribute antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use frozen zucchinis?: It is recommended to use fresh zucchinis for the best texture and flavor.
- How can I make the recipe vegetarian?: This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can replace the melted cheese with a vegan alternative to adapt it to vegan diets.
- Can I store leftovers?: Yes, stuffed zucchinis can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or in a skillet.

I hope this recipe for stuffed zucchini with melted cheese brings you joy in the kitchen! I encourage you to experiment with various ingredients and find the combinations you like best. Enjoy your meal!