Fried Zucchini Flowers

Fried Zucchini Flowers are a delightful Spanish snack, featuring delicate, crispy blossoms filled with a rich cheese mixture. This dish captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors, making it a perfect appetizer or side dish.

Ingredients

• Zucchini flowers - 8 pieces
• Ricotta cheese - 100 grams
• Feta cheese - 50 grams, crumbled
• Fresh parsley - 1 tablespoon, chopped
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
• All-purpose flour - 1/2 cup
• Cold sparkling water - 1/2 cup
• Olive oil - for frying

Steps

1. Prepare the filling by mixing ricotta cheese, crumbled feta, chopped parsley, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper in a bowl until well combined.
2. Carefully open each zucchini flower and fill it with the cheese mixture, ensuring not to overfill. Twist the ends of the flowers to seal them.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and cold sparkling water until a smooth batter forms.
4. Heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium heat, ensuring there is enough oil to submerge the flowers partially.
5. Dip each filled zucchini flower into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off, and then gently place them in the hot oil.
6. Fry the flowers for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Do not overcrowd the skillet; fry in batches if necessary.
7. Once fried, transfer the zucchini flowers to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Season lightly with salt while still hot.
8. Serve immediately as a delicious snack or appetizer.

Nutrition

• Calories: 230
• Protein: 8 g
• Carbs: 20 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Cholesterol: 30 mg
• Total Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Water: 0.1 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in vitamins A and C from zucchini flowers, supporting immune health.
• Contains beneficial fats from olive oil, promoting heart health.

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