Zucchini Roll

Zucchini roll - an easy and tasty recipe, perfect for a healthy snack or an elegant appetizer. This dish adds a touch of freshness and color to your table, making it an ideal choice for vegetable lovers and those who want to impress with a simple yet refined dish. Let's discover together how to prepare a special zucchini roll and enjoy every bite!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 2 hours 35 minutes (including cooling time)
Number of servings: 6-8

Basic ingredients:

- 500 g zucchini
- 4 large eggs
- 10 slices of ham (preferably high quality)
- 250 g cream cheese (opt for a creamy and smooth variety)
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Ingredient details:

Zucchini are versatile vegetables, rich in nutrients and low in calories, making them an excellent choice for a balanced diet. They have a high water content, which makes them ideal for use in dishes like rolls. Eggs provide the necessary protein to bind the mixture, while cheese adds creaminess and a special flavor. Ham perfectly complements the taste of the roll, bringing a subtle salty contrast.

Recipe history:

Zucchini rolls are a modern reinterpretation of traditional dishes, inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, where vegetables play a central role. These rolls are not only a culinary delight but also an ingenious way to incorporate more vegetables into daily diets. Whether served at a party or as a snack between meals, these rolls combine simplicity and elegance.

Step by step - Preparing the zucchini roll:

1. Wash and prepare the zucchini: Start by washing the zucchini well under cold water. Dry them with a clean towel and then grate them on the large grater. This step is essential for achieving a pleasant texture of the roll.

2. Salting and removing excess water: Place the grated zucchini in a bowl, add a teaspoon of salt, and let them sit for 20 minutes. The salt will help extract excess liquid, which is crucial for achieving a well-bound roll.

3. Beat the eggs: In another bowl, beat the eggs with a whisk or fork. Add salt and pepper to taste, then incorporate the grated parmesan and mix well.

4. Combining the ingredients: Drain the zucchini well and, using your hands, gently squeeze them to remove excess liquid. Add the zucchini to the bowl with the beaten eggs and mix well, ensuring everything is homogeneous.

5. Preparing the baking tray: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Line a baking tray with parchment paper, ensuring it covers the edges well to facilitate removing the roll after baking.

6. Baking the mixture: Pour the zucchini and egg mixture into the tray, spreading it evenly. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, until the surface is golden and firm.

7. Cooling the layers: Once the layer is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool directly in the tray for a few minutes. This will help maintain the shape of the roll.

8. Adding the filling: After the layer has cooled, spread the cream cheese over it, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Place the slices of ham on top of the cream, covering the entire layer.

9. Rolling the roll: Use the parchment paper to carefully roll the layer, starting from one of the long edges. Gently but firmly tighten the roll to maintain its shape. Once you have a tight roll, wrap it in plastic wrap.

10. Final cooling: Place the roll in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This will allow the flavors to meld and help stabilize the shape.

Serving and variations:

The zucchini roll is served cold, sliced into thin pieces, making it perfect for a festive meal or a gathering with friends. You can pair it with a fresh salad or a yogurt garlic sauce for added flavor. If you want to experiment, you can add black olives or herbs like basil or oregano to the filling for an even more intense taste.

Helpful tips:

- You can use zucchini of different colors for a more attractive appearance.
- If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can use feta cheese instead of cream cheese.
- Make sure not to use zucchini that are too large, as they may have a less pleasant texture.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?
Yes, you can try carrots or eggplants to create delicious variations.

2. How long can the roll be kept in the refrigerator?
The roll can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, covered with plastic wrap.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
You can adapt the recipe using vegan eggs and dairy-free cheese.

4. What drinks pair well with zucchini rolls?
Fresh lemonade or a dry white wine are excellent choices to accompany these rolls.

In conclusion, the zucchini roll is not only a simple recipe but also a way to enjoy the healthy taste of vegetables. I encourage you to try this delicious recipe and personalize it to your preferences. Whether you serve it on a special occasion or simply as a healthy snack, this dish will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones!