Zucchini & Cheese Roulades: A Light and Flavorful Appetizer

Zucchini & Cheese Roulades are a fantastic Mediterranean-inspired appetizer that combines the fresh, mild flavor of zucchini with a rich and creamy cheese filling. The addition of Mediterranean ingredients like olives, capers, and basil makes this dish a refreshing choice for any occasion. Perfect for a healthy snack or light appetizer, these roulades are easy to make and sure to impress your guests.

If you enjoy Mediterranean cuisine, you might want to explore other delicious dishes such as Stuffed Grape Leaves or Classic Mediterranean Salad.

Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

These Zucchini & Cheese Roulades are quick to assemble and full of flavor. Here’s everything you need:

Zucchini & Cheese Roulades: A Mediterranean-Inspired Appetizer Recipe

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• Author: Jennifer Mitchell
• Total Time: 15 minutes (plus optional chill time)
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Zucchini & Cheese Roulades are a fresh and delicious appetizer that features thinly sliced zucchini wrapped around a flavorful ricotta and Parmesan cheese filling, accented with tangy lemon, capers, and olives. These roulades are light, savory, and perfect as a healthy snack or appetizer for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh basil (or 2 teaspoons dried basil)
• 1 tablespoon capers, drained
• 1 tablespoon chopped Greek olives
• 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper
• 4 medium zucchini

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Zucchini:
   Slice the zucchini lengthwise into thin strips using a mandoline or a sharp knife, about 1/8-inch thick. You should get 3-4 strips from each zucchini. Lightly salt the zucchini strips and let them sit for about 10 minutes to release excess moisture. Afterward, pat them dry with a paper towel.

2. Make the Cheese Filling:
   In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, minced basil (or dried basil), capers, chopped Greek olives, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined and the mixture is smooth.

3. Assemble the Roulades:
   Lay a zucchini strip flat on a clean surface. Spoon a small amount of the cheese filling onto the end of the zucchini strip. Carefully roll the zucchini around the filling to form a roulade. Repeat this process with the remaining zucchini strips and cheese mixture.

4. Chill and Serve:
   Arrange the zucchini roulades on a serving platter. If desired, refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and to make them easier to handle. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Notes

• Make-Ahead: These roulades can be made a few hours in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
• Serving Suggestions: For added freshness, serve these roulades with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of additional Parmesan. They also pair nicely with a light salad or fresh bread.
• Customization: Feel free to swap the Greek olives for Kalamata or any other olives you prefer, and experiment with different herbs such as thyme or oregano for a unique flavor twist.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snack
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3 roulades
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 280mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Zucchini & Cheese Roulades Recipe

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Zucchini:

• Start by washing the zucchini thoroughly. Cut the zucchini lengthwise into long, thin strips, approximately 1/4 inch thick. You can use a mandolin slicer to ensure uniformity.
• Sprinkle a small amount of salt on the zucchini slices and let them sit for about 10-15 minutes to release some moisture. Afterward, gently blot the slices with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This step helps the zucchini remain firm after baking.

1. Make the Cheese Filling:

• In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, basil, capers, Greek olives, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated and the filling is creamy.

1. Assemble the Roulades:

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Lay out the zucchini strips on a clean surface. Place a spoonful of the cheese mixture onto each zucchini strip. Carefully roll up each zucchini strip, securing the cheese filling inside. Arrange the rolled zucchini in a baking dish, seam side down.

1. Bake the Roulades:

• Once the zucchini roulades are in the baking dish, place them in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese filling is golden and bubbly.

1. Serve:

• Once baked, remove the roulades from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm as an appetizer or side dish. Garnish with additional fresh basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.

Advanced Techniques for Zucchini & Cheese Roulades

While the basic recipe is straightforward, here are some advanced techniques that can take your Zucchini & Cheese Roulades to the next level:

1. Grill the Zucchini

For a smoky, charred flavor, grill the zucchini slices instead of baking them. Brush the zucchini with olive oil, then grill the strips on a preheated grill for 1-2 minutes per side until lightly browned and tender. Grilled zucchini adds an extra depth of flavor to the dish.

2. Add Roasted Garlic

Garlic lovers will appreciate the addition of roasted garlic. Simply roast a few cloves of garlic in the oven until soft and golden, then mash them into the cheese filling. This will infuse the dish with a rich, savory flavor.

3. Experiment with Different Cheeses

Feel free to swap out the ricotta and Parmesan for other cheeses. Goat cheese adds a tangy, creamy texture, while mozzarella can provide a milder, stretchy texture. A combination of cheeses adds richness and complexity to the filling.

4. Incorporate Fresh Vegetables

If you want to add more freshness and texture to the dish, consider incorporating sautéed vegetables into the filling, such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. These vegetables will not only enhance the flavor but also add nutritional value.

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

Zucchini & Cheese Roulades are ideal for making ahead and storing for later. Here’s how to properly store and maintain them:

1. Storing Leftovers

Once the roulades have cooled, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the best results, keep the roulades separate from the sauce or garnish until you are ready to serve them again.

2. Freezing the Roulades

If you want to make these ahead of time, you can freeze the assembled roulades before baking. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to cook them, bake them directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes.

3. Reheating

To reheat the roulades, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes.

Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

This Zucchini & Cheese Roulades recipe can be easily adapted to meet various dietary preferences. Here are some substitutions you can make:

1. Vegan Version

For a vegan-friendly version, swap the ricotta cheese with tofu-based ricotta or a cashew cheese blend. You can also use vegan Parmesan and mozzarella to create a dairy-free dish that still has the same creamy texture.

2. Gluten-Free

This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Be sure that any additional ingredients, such as olives or capers, are labeled gluten-free to maintain the dish’s gluten-free status.

3. Lower Carb/Keto-Friendly

For a keto-friendly version, omit the lemon juice and zest, as they contain a small amount of carbohydrates. You can also add more creamy filling and fresh herbs to offset the reduced carb content.

4. Dairy-Free

For dairy-free adaptations, use a dairy-free ricotta alternative and opt for dairy-free Parmesan and mozzarella. These substitutions will still give you that creamy texture without the dairy.

FAQs About Zucchini & Cheese Roulades

1. Can I prepare the roulades in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the roulades ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just ensure the zucchini is dry before assembling to prevent the roulades from becoming too watery.

2. Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?

Yes, you can experiment with other vegetables like yellow squash, eggplant, or even bell peppers. Just ensure that the vegetables are sliced thin enough for easy rolling.

3. How do I make the roulades spicier?

If you prefer a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or finely chopped chili peppers to the cheese mixture. This will give your roulades an extra layer of heat.

4. How do I serve these roulades?

Zucchini & Cheese Roulades make a great appetizer, but they can also be served as a side dish to complement a main course. Pair them with a light salad, grilled fish, or roasted chicken for a complete meal.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

These Zucchini & Cheese Roulades are a light yet flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish that brings together fresh zucchini and a creamy cheese filling. Perfect for a healthy snack or elegant appetizer, these roulades are packed with flavors from olives, capers, and fresh herbs. With the option to grill, add roasted garlic, or experiment with different cheeses, the possibilities are endless.

Whether you’re entertaining guests or looking for a satisfying vegetarian dish, these roulades will surely become a new favorite. Don’t forget to try out some of the suggested variations to customize the recipe to your taste and dietary preferences. Enjoy!