Imagine biting into a delicate, golden-crisp zucchini flower that reveals a succulent, creamy pork filling with every mouthwatering bite. This Italian delicacy transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary culinary experience that will transport your taste buds straight to the sun-drenched gardens of Italy. Perfect for impressing dinner guests or treating yourself to a gourmet adventure, these stuffed zucchini flowers are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 zucchini flowers
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions
- Carefully clean the zucchini flowers by gently opening them and removing the inner stamen. Rinse delicately under cool water and pat dry with paper towels, being careful not to tear the delicate petals.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine ground pork, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and create a smooth, consistent filling.
- Using a small spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each zucchini flower with the pork mixture. Gently twist the top of the flower petals to seal the filling inside, ensuring it is completely enclosed.
- Prepare a large skillet or deep frying pan by heating olive oil to approximately 350°F (175°C). The oil should be deep enough to partially submerge the stuffed flowers.
- Carefully place the stuffed zucchini flowers into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and the pork filling reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Remove the fried zucchini flowers using a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. Allow them to rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs like basil or parsley, and accompanied by a light marinara sauce or aioli for dipping.
Tips
- Handle zucchini flowers with extreme care - they're as delicate as tissue paper! Use gentle hands when cleaning and filling to prevent tearing.
- Ensure your oil is precisely at 350°F for the perfect golden-brown exterior without absorbing excess oil.
- Don't overcrowd the pan when frying - this ensures each flower gets crispy and evenly cooked.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the pork filling reaches 160°F for food safety.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding fresh herbs like chopped basil or thyme to your pork mixture.
- If you can't find fresh zucchini flowers, check local farmers markets or specialty grocery stores during summer months.
- Serve immediately after frying for the ultimate crispy texture and maximum flavor impact!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 42g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 175mg
