Garlic butter zucchini bread rolls are a flavorful twist on traditional bread rolls, combining the delicate texture of freshly baked dough with the rich, aromatic flavors of garlic butter and tender zucchini. These rolls are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a side dish to accompany your main course, a light snack, or an appetizer to serve at a dinner party. The garlic butter adds a savory depth to the rolls, while the zucchini provides a fresh and slightly crispy texture. The rose-shaped dough is not only visually appealing but also offers a fun way to enjoy a delicious, homemade bread that everyone will love. Serve these rolls warm, and they are sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Preparation Time
- Total preparation and cooking time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 250g (2 cups) all-purpose/plain flour
- 1 tsp salt (adjustable)
- 1 tsp instant yeast
- 1 tbsp oil
- 125ml + 2 tbsp (1/2 cup + 2 tbsp) warm water
- A little oil to coat the dough
- One or two zucchinis, sliced thin and patted dry with paper towels
- Egg for egg wash
For the Garlic Butter:
- 3 tbsp soft butter
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tbsp chopped chives, parsley, scallions, or other herbs
Directions
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Prepare the Garlic Butter:
- In a small bowl, combine the soft butter, minced garlic, and chopped herbs. Stir well until everything is thoroughly mixed.
- Store the garlic butter in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.
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Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Stir to mix them together evenly.
- Add the instant yeast and oil to the flour mixture. Stir until combined.
- Gradually pour in the warm water while stirring to form a dough. Knead the dough on a flat surface for about 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If needed, adjust the water or flour to get the right consistency.
- Drizzle a little oil over the dough, coat it thoroughly, and place it back in the bowl. Cover with a cloth and let it proof for about an hour or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
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Form the Dough Balls:
- After the dough has risen, divide it into 16 equal pieces and roll each into a ball.
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Assemble the Bread:
- Flatten each dough ball lengthwise into an oval shape.
- Spread a thin layer of the prepared garlic butter on each piece of dough.
- Place 4 slices of zucchini on each piece of dough, slightly overlapping the slices.
- Fold the dough over, exposing half of the zucchini slices, and press on both ends to secure the zucchini slices inside.
- Spread a little more garlic butter on top of the folded dough and then carefully roll it to form a rose shape.
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Bake the Bread:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Arrange the rose-shaped dough pieces in a round baking dish or any pan of your choice. Cover the dish and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes.
- Brush the tops of the dough with egg wash to give it a golden, shiny finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown. Baking times may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them toward the end.
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Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let the bread cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the garlic butter zucchini bread rolls warm as a delicious side dish for pasta or grilled meats.
- These rolls also pair perfectly with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a light meal.
- For a fun appetizer, serve with a variety of dipping sauces, such as marinara, ranch, or even a spicy garlic aioli.
Cooking Tips
- Be sure to pat the zucchini slices dry with paper towels before adding them to the dough. This helps prevent excess moisture from making the dough soggy.
- If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, feel free to adjust the amount of garlic in the butter mixture to suit your taste.
- You can also experiment with different herbs, like thyme or oregano, for a different twist on the garlic butter.
- If you prefer a softer bread, bake the rolls for an extra 5 minutes, keeping an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
Nutritional Benefits
- Zucchini: Zucchini is low in calories, high in vitamins A and C, and provides a good amount of potassium, making it great for supporting heart health and boosting the immune system.
- Garlic: Garlic contains allicin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
- Olive oil: Olive oil provides healthy fats that are beneficial for heart health and overall well-being.
- Herbs: Chives, parsley, and scallions are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, helping to fight inflammation and support healthy digestion.
Dietary Information
- This recipe is vegetarian.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- To make it dairy-free, substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like margarine or coconut oil.
Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, wrap the rolls in foil and bake in the oven for a few minutes until warmed through.
- You can also freeze these rolls. After baking and cooling, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat them in the oven to restore their crispy texture.
Conclusion
Garlic butter zucchini bread rolls are a delicious and creative way to enjoy the classic flavors of garlic and zucchini. The soft, tender dough combined with the rich, savory garlic butter and the fresh zucchini makes for an irresistible treat. Whether you serve them as a side dish, appetizer, or light snack, these rolls are sure to impress your guests with their taste and presentation. Enjoy them warm with your favorite dipping sauce for a truly memorable experience.
5 Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini? Yes, you can substitute zucchini with other vegetables such as thinly sliced mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers.
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Can I prepare the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just allow it to come to room temperature and rise before assembling.
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Can I make the garlic butter in advance? Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
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What if I don’t have a round baking dish? You can use any oven-safe pan you have. A square or rectangular baking dish will work just as well.
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Can I add cheese to the filling? Absolutely! You can sprinkle shredded cheese, such as mozzarella or parmesan, on top of the zucchini slices before folding the dough.