Zucchini rolls with minced meat

Zucchini Rolls with Ground Meat

A delicious and healthy dish, zucchini rolls with ground meat are the perfect solution for a quick and hearty dinner. These rolls are not only aesthetically pleasing but also offer a fabulous combination of flavors. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, this recipe will surely impress everyone who tastes it.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 2 medium, fresh zucchinis
- 400 g ground meat (beef, pork, or chicken, depending on preference)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 egg
- 100 g breadcrumbs
- 50 g grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Tomato sauce (for serving)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the zucchinis: Start by washing the zucchinis well. Using a knife or a peeler, cut them into thin strips, about 3-5 mm thick. It's important to get uniform strips to ensure even baking. You can also use a mandoline for excellent results.

2. Preparing the filling: In a large bowl, mix the ground meat with the onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well until you obtain a consistent paste. It's essential to use your hands to integrate the ingredients well so that the filling is homogeneous.

3. Filling the zucchinis: On each strip of zucchini, add a tablespoon of the meat filling. Gently fold the strip and roll it up, ensuring that the filling does not spill out. Place the rolls in a baking dish lined with parchment paper or greased with a little olive oil.

4. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Drizzle the rolls with a little olive oil to achieve a golden and crispy crust. Bake the rolls for 25 minutes, until they are nicely browned.

5. Serving: Zucchini rolls are served warm, alongside a fresh tomato sauce or garlic yogurt sauce. You can also add a green salad for a fresh contrast.

Practical tips:
- You can experiment with the filling by adding finely chopped vegetables or different cheeses for a more intense flavor.
- Instead of breadcrumbs, you can use ground oats for a healthier option.
- If you're concerned that the zucchinis will release water during baking, you can sprinkle a little salt on the zucchini strips and let them sit for 10 minutes, then wipe them with a kitchen towel.

The zucchini rolls with ground meat recipe is not only a healthy choice but also an ingenious way to add vegetables to your daily diet. These rolls can be prepared in advance and reheated, making them ideal for family meals or gatherings with friends. Cook with love and enjoy every bite!