These Oatmeal Zucchini Cheese Rolls are a savory, healthy, and flavorful option for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The combination of oats, zucchini, and cheese creates a hearty, nutritious roll with a soft interior and a crispy exterior. These rolls are easy to make and can be customized with different types of cheese or herbs, making them a versatile treat for any meal.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
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Preparation Time: 15 minutes
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Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
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Total Time: 40-45 minutes
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Servings: 8 rolls
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Calories per Serving: Approximately 180 kcal
Full List of Ingredients
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1 cup rolled oats (can substitute with oat flour for a smoother texture)
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1 medium zucchini, grated
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1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your preferred cheese)
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1/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
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1 large egg
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1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing and brushing)
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1 tablespoon fresh herbs (optional, such as parsley, thyme, or basil)
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Additional cheese for topping (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Grease a baking sheet with olive oil or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Zucchini
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Grate the zucchini using a box grater or food processor.
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Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and squeeze out any excess moisture to prevent the rolls from becoming soggy.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients
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In a large bowl, beat the egg and add the milk.
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Stir in the grated zucchini and shredded cheese.
4. Add the Dry Ingredients
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To the wet mixture, add the rolled oats (or oat flour), baking powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
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Mix everything together until well combined. If the mixture is too dry, you can add a splash more milk to achieve a dough-like consistency.
5. Shape the Rolls
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Scoop out spoonfuls of the mixture and form them into small rolls or patties.
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Place them on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there is some space between each roll.
6. Bake the Rolls
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Brush the tops of the rolls with a little olive oil and sprinkle additional cheese on top, if desired.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and firm to the touch.
7. Cool and Serve
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Allow the rolls to cool for a few minutes on a wire rack before serving.
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Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutritional Information (Per Roll)
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Calories: 180
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Fat: 9g
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Protein: 8g
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Carbohydrates: 18g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sugars: 3g
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Sodium: 250mg
Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Oatmeal rolls are a healthy twist on traditional bread rolls, providing extra fiber and nutrients from oats. Combining oats with vegetables like zucchini gives the rolls a hearty, wholesome texture while adding a boost of vitamins and antioxidants. These rolls are a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while still enjoying a comforting, savory treat.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
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Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fiber from oats and zucchini, these rolls are a great way to add nutrients to your meal.
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Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, you can have these rolls in under an hour, making them a perfect quick snack or side.
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Versatile: You can customize the rolls with different types of cheese or herbs based on your preferences.
Health Benefits
Oats are a good source of soluble fiber, which helps lower cholesterol and supports digestive health. Zucchini provides a rich amount of vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants. The cheese offers protein and calcium, making these rolls a balanced snack or meal option.
Serving Suggestions
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As a Snack: Serve them warm with a dollop of sour cream or a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
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For Breakfast: Enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea for a hearty breakfast.
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With a Salad: Serve as a side dish to a light green salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips
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Use Fresh Zucchini: Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the zucchini to prevent the rolls from becoming soggy.
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Customize the Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese like feta, goat cheese, or parmesan for added flavor.
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Add More Vegetables: You can add other finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or onions to the mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
Variations to Try
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Add Spices: Add a pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika to the mixture for an extra kick of flavor.
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Vegan Version: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and non-dairy cheese for a vegan-friendly version.
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Make Mini Rolls: Shape the mixture into mini rolls for bite-sized snacks or appetizers.
Conclusion
These Oatmeal Zucchini Cheese Rolls are a delicious, healthy, and versatile recipe that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, breakfast, or side dish, they’re packed with flavor and nutrients that will satisfy both your taste buds and your health goals. Give them a try and enjoy the combination of cheesy goodness and nutritious oats and vegetables!
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
1. Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake the rolls just before serving.
2. Can I freeze the rolls?
Yes, these rolls freeze well. Once baked and cooled, store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 1 month. Reheat them in the oven when ready to serve.
3. Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?
Yes, you can substitute zucchini with other grated vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes.
4. Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
While rolled oats are best for texture, you can use quick oats in a pinch, though the rolls may be slightly softer.
5. Can I make these rolls without cheese?
Yes, you can omit the cheese for a dairy-free version. The rolls will still have great flavor from the zucchini and seasonings.
6. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a crispy texture.
7. Can I make these rolls gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to make these rolls gluten-free.
8. Can I add nuts or seeds?
Yes, you can add sunflower seeds or chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor.
9. How do I make these rolls spicier?
Add extra chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick.
10. Can I bake these rolls as a loaf?
Yes, you can bake the dough in a loaf pan for a bread-like texture. Adjust the baking time to 40-45 minutes.