Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and utterly delicious dish to impress your friends and family? Look no further! This recipe for squash blossoms is surprisingly easy to make, yet delivers a burst of fresh, summery flavor that's simply unforgettable. Perfect as an appetizer, a light lunch, or a unique side dish, these delicate blossoms are a true culinary delight. Prepare to be amazed by how simple it is to elevate everyday ingredients into a truly special meal. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 12-15 fresh squash blossoms (choose blossoms that are fully open and without blemishes)
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk or part-skim)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, gently combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, chopped basil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Avoid overmixing.
-
Gently Stuff the Blossoms: Carefully rinse the squash blossoms under cold water. Gently remove the pistils (the inner part of the flower) from each blossom. Spoon about 1-2 teaspoons of the ricotta mixture into each blossom, being careful not to overfill.
-
Coat in Flour: Place the flour in a shallow dish. Carefully dredge each stuffed blossom in the flour, ensuring it's lightly coated. Excess flour can result in a heavy texture.
-
Fry to Perfection: Heat about 1/2 inch of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot (a drop of flour should sizzle immediately), carefully place the stuffed blossoms in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for approximately 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
-
Drain and Serve: Remove the fried blossoms from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately while hot. These are best enjoyed fresh!
Cooking Tips for the Best Squash Blossoms:
- Fresh is Best: Using fresh, high-quality squash blossoms is key to achieving the best flavor and texture. Look for blossoms that are vibrant in color and free of blemishes.
- Don't Overfill: Overfilling the blossoms can cause them to burst during frying. Aim for a moderate amount of filling.
- Control the Heat: Medium heat is essential to ensure the blossoms cook evenly and don’t burn. Adjust the heat as needed.
- Serve Immediately: Fried squash blossoms are best enjoyed immediately after frying, while they are still hot and crispy.
Variations:
- Add some spice: For a bit of a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture.
- Herby Delight: Experiment with different herbs, such as oregano, thyme, or parsley.
- Cheese Please: Try using different cheeses, like goat cheese or mozzarella, for a unique flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Option: This recipe is naturally vegetarian, but can easily be made vegan by substituting the ricotta with a vegan cream cheese alternative and the egg with flax eggs.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Serving Size: 2 blossoms
Calories: 150-200 (depending on cheese and oil used)
Fat: 10-15g
Protein: 5-7g
Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This recipe for squash blossoms provides a healthy and delicious meal, perfect for a quick dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the beautiful presentation of this easy-to-make dish! It’s sure to become a favorite amongst your easy recipes and healthy meals. Enjoy your homemade cooking!