Zucchini meatballs with cheese cream

Zucchini Fritters with Cream Cheese

Are you looking for a quick and delicious recipe that combines health with flavor? I invite you to discover zucchini fritters with cream cheese! These delightful little bites are not only easy to prepare, but also very versatile, making them perfect as an appetizer or a main dish. Zucchini, the stars of this recipe, are rich in nutrients and low in calories, making them ideal for a balanced diet.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Your basic ingredients:

- 4 medium zucchinis (about 800 g)
- 2 eggs
- 2 packages of cream cheese (or another creamy cheese with a garlic flavor)
- 1 onion
- 3 tablespoons of semolina
- 1 tablespoon of breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 5 cloves of garlic

Preparing the zucchini fritters:

1. Grate the zucchinis: Start by peeling the zucchinis, removing the skin. Then, use a large grater to turn them into fine shreds. Add a little salt over the zucchinis and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This will help extract the excess water, which is essential for getting crispy fritters.

2. Squeeze the zucchinis: After they have sat, put the zucchinis in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze well to remove the water. This step is crucial to avoid soggy fritters and to ensure a pleasant texture.

3. Prepare the aromatic ingredients: Peel the onion and chop it very finely or grate it. Also, peel the garlic cloves and either mash or chop them finely. All this aroma will enrich the fritters with a special taste.

4. Mix the composition: In a large bowl, combine the squeezed zucchinis, chopped onion, garlic, cream cheese, eggs, semolina, breadcrumbs, parsley, and dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix all the ingredients well until you achieve a homogeneous composition.

5. Form the fritters: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Using a spoon, form small piles from the zucchini mixture and place them on the tray, leaving a little space between them to bake evenly.

6. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and let the fritters bake for 20 minutes. After this time, use a spatula to carefully turn them over for even browning. Continue baking for another 5-10 minutes until they turn golden and crispy.

Serving and suggestions:

Zucchini fritters are delicious served warm, alongside cream cheese or a yogurt sauce with fresh herbs. For an even richer culinary experience, you can add a fresh green salad and a slice of whole grain bread. These fritters can also be enjoyed cold, making them ideal for a picnic or a meal at the office.

Variations and tips:

- If you want to add a spicy note, you can add some finely chopped chili pepper to the fritter mixture.
- Substitute the cheese with a vegan option, using tofu or cashew cheese, for a dairy-free alternative.
- You can experiment with different herbs, such as basil or oregano, to customize your recipe.

Nutritional information:

Each serving of zucchini fritters contains approximately 150 calories, being rich in fiber, vitamins (A, C, K), and minerals (potassium, manganese). Zucchini contributes to hydration, while cheese adds a quality protein boost.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use frozen zucchini?: While it is recommended to use fresh zucchini, you can use frozen zucchini, but make sure they are well squeezed of water.
- How can I store the fritters?: They can be stored in the refrigerator in a closed container for 2-3 days. They can be reheated in the oven or in a pan for a fresh taste.
- What type of cheese can I use?: Any creamy cheese or even ricotta will work wonderfully in this recipe.

These zucchini fritters are an excellent choice for a healthy and tasty meal that will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy cooking and savor every moment!