Goat Cheese-stuffed Zucchini Blossoms on Tomato Salad

Goat Cheese-stuffed Zucchini Blossoms on Tomato Salad Recipe from Italy

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

This recipe for Goat Cheese-stuffed Zucchini Blossoms on Tomato Salad is a delightful and elegant dish that combines the delicate flavors of zucchini blossoms with creamy goat cheese and fresh tomatoes. It is a perfect appetizer or light meal for a summer day.

History

Zucchini blossoms have been used in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries, prized for their delicate flavor and beautiful appearance. Stuffing them with cheese is a popular way to enjoy them, and pairing them with tomatoes creates a refreshing and colorful dish.

Ingredients

4 oz (113 g) of fresh, mild, soft goat cheese, at room temperature
2 tbsp of coarsely chopped fresh basil
2 tbsp of coarsely chopped fresh marjoram
8 large fresh zucchini blossoms
3 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil
salt to taste
2 cups of vine-ripened cherry or other small tomatoes, halved or quartered, or two large vine-ripened tomatoes cut in bite-sized pieces

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Lightly oil a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper, and set it aside.
Mix the cheese with half of the basil and half of the marjoram.
Form the mixture into 8 balls of equal size.
Inspect the blossoms for insects, and snap off the pistils inside the flowers using your fingertips.
Cut the stems to about 1 inch in length.
Put a ball of cheese inside each blossom, and arrange them on the baking sheet.
Brush the blossoms with half of the olive oil, and lightly season them with salt.
Bake the stuffed blossoms for 7 to 10 minutes, or until the petals collapse onto the cheese and sizzle slightly around the edges.
Meanwhile, toss the tomato halves or slices with the remaining olive oil, marjoram, and basil.
Season the tomatoes with salt.
To serve, arrange the salad on four plates, and top it with the warm blossoms.

Variations

Substitute the goat cheese with feta or ricotta cheese for a different flavor.
Add chopped nuts or dried fruits to the cheese mixture for extra texture and flavor.
Drizzle balsamic glaze or honey over the finished dish for a touch of sweetness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to inspect the zucchini blossoms carefully for insects before using them in the recipe.

- Use fresh, high-quality goat cheese for the best flavor and texture.

- Be gentle when stuffing the blossoms to avoid tearing the delicate petals.

- Serve the dish immediately after baking the blossoms for the best taste and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish as an appetizer or light meal with a side of crusty bread or a green salad.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the stuffed zucchini blossoms ensures that the cheese melts and the petals become tender while retaining their shape.

Ingredient Substitutions

If zucchini blossoms are not available, you can use bell peppers or mushrooms as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the cheese mixture and stuff the zucchini blossoms ahead of time, then bake them just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the stuffed zucchini blossoms on a bed of tomato salad for an elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or edible flowers for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this dish contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this dish contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this dish contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of this dish contains approximately 8 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This dish contains dairy (goat cheese) and may not be suitable for individuals with dairy allergies.

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein and healthy fats, and is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is a nutritious and delicious option for a light meal or appetizer.

Summary

This Goat Cheese-stuffed Zucchini Blossoms on Tomato Salad recipe is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a summer meal. With its delicate flavors and beautiful presentation, it is sure to impress your guests. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was a warm summer day, the sun shining brightly in the sky and a gentle breeze rustling through the trees in our backyard. I had just finished tending to my garden, admiring the vibrant colors of my zucchini plants and the delicate blossoms that adorned them.

As I plucked a few of the blossoms to bring inside, a thought crossed my mind - why not try something new with them? I had heard of stuffing zucchini blossoms before, but never with goat cheese. The idea intrigued me, so I set to work in the kitchen, pulling out my trusty recipe books and searching for inspiration.

After a bit of searching, I stumbled upon a recipe for Goat Cheese-stuffed Zucchini Blossoms on Tomato Salad. The combination of flavors sounded divine - creamy goat cheese, delicate zucchini blossoms, and juicy tomatoes all coming together in a harmonious dish. I knew I had to give it a try.

I followed the recipe carefully, gently stuffing each zucchini blossom with a generous amount of goat cheese and folding the petals over to seal in the filling. As I placed the blossoms in a hot skillet to cook, the aroma of melting cheese filled the air, mingling with the sweet scent of tomatoes.

When the dish was finally ready, I plated it carefully, arranging the stuffed zucchini blossoms on a bed of fresh tomato salad. The colors were vibrant and inviting, a true feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

I took a bite, savoring the combination of flavors and textures. The creamy goat cheese melted in my mouth, the zucchini blossoms adding a delicate crunch, and the juicy tomatoes providing a burst of freshness. It was a culinary masterpiece, a dish that was as beautiful as it was delicious.

As I sat at the table, savoring each bite, I couldn't help but think back on the journey that had led me to this moment. Over the years, I had collected recipes from various places and people, each one adding a unique flavor to my culinary repertoire. But this recipe, with its blend of savory cheese, delicate blossoms, and juicy tomatoes, was truly something special.

I could imagine sharing this dish with friends and family, watching their faces light up with delight as they tasted the flavors that had brought me so much joy. And as I finished the last bite, I knew that this recipe would hold a special place in my heart for years to come.

So now, whenever I see the zucchini plants in my garden blooming with delicate blossoms, I think back on that warm summer day when I discovered the recipe for Goat Cheese-stuffed Zucchini Blossoms on Tomato Salad. It's a memory that brings a smile to my face and a warmth to my heart, a reminder of the simple joys that cooking can bring. And I know that as long as I have my trusty recipe books and a garden full of fresh ingredients, there will always be new culinary adventures waiting to be discovered.