🥒 Delicious Zucchini Rolls: A Seasonal Snack
A light, healthy, and elegant appetizer or snack made with thin zucchini ribbons, creamy ricotta filling, and a hint of herbs. These rolls are perfect for summer when zucchini is at its peak!
📝 Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced thinly lengthwise (use a mandoline or vegetable peeler)
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh basil, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (optional, for serving or drizzling)
🥄 Instructions:
- Prep the Zucchini:
Slice zucchinis lengthwise into thin ribbons. Lightly salt and let them rest for 10 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat dry with paper towels. - Make the Filling:
In a bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan, basil, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth. - Roll the Zucchini:
Place a teaspoon of the cheese mixture at one end of each zucchini ribbon. Roll up tightly. Repeat for all slices. - Serve or Bake (Optional):
- Fresh option: Serve cold or at room temp with a drizzle of olive oil or a dip in marinara.
- Warm option: Arrange rolls in a baking dish, top with marinara sauce, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes until warmed through and slightly golden.
📝 Notes:
- For extra richness, you can mix in some goat cheese or cream cheese with the ricotta.
- Zucchini slices should be thin and pliable — if too thick, they won’t roll easily.
- For more color, garnish with microgreens, crushed red pepper, or pine nuts.
💡 Tips:
- Use a mandoline slicer for consistent, paper-thin zucchini ribbons.
- Let zucchini rest with salt — this helps avoid sogginess.
- Add a little lemon zest or garlic to the cheese mix for a flavor boost.
- Secure each roll with a toothpick if needed for parties or buffets.
🍽 Servings:
Makes about 12–16 rolls, serving 4 people as an appetizer or side.
🔢 Nutritional Info (Approx. per 4 rolls):
- Calories: 110
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbs: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Calcium: 15% DV
🌿 Health Benefits:
- Low-carb & keto-friendly: A great alternative to bread-based snacks.
- High in calcium & protein thanks to ricotta and Parmesan.
- Zucchini is rich in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants.
- Digestive friendly: Light, low-calorie, and low in fat.
❓ Q & A:
Q: Can I prepare these in advance?
A: Yes! You can make them up to a day ahead and store in the fridge. Wait to drizzle with oil or sauce until serving.
Q: Can I grill the zucchini slices first?
A: Absolutely! Grilling adds a smoky flavor and softens them, making them easier to roll.
Q: What can I use instead of ricotta?
A: Try whipped feta, cottage cheese, or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
Q: Are they kid-friendly?
A: Yes! The mild flavors and fun roll-up shape often appeal to kids—just go light on any strong herbs.