This delicious and easy-to-make dinner features fragrant zucchini balls paired with a flavorful garlic sauce. It’s a delightful meal that is sure to please your taste buds.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Zucchini Balls:
- Zucchini: 2
- Salt
- Ricotta cheese: 200g (1 cup)
- Breadcrumbs: 80g (1/2 cup)
- Herbs of Provence
- Parmesan cheese: 60g (1/4 cup)
- Egg: 1
For the Garlic Sauce:
- Greek yogurt: 50g (1/4 cup)
- Mayonnaise: 50g (1/4 cup)
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh dill, chopped
Instructions:
For the Zucchini Balls:
- Prepare the Zucchini:
- Grate the zucchini and sprinkle with salt. Let it steep for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- After 10 minutes, squeeze out the excess water from the zucchini using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
- Make the Zucchini Balls:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, ricotta cheese, breadcrumbs, Herbs of Provence, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into small balls.
- Bake the Zucchini Balls:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Place the zucchini balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until golden brown and firm.
For the Garlic Sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, and chopped fresh dill.
- Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Serving Suggestions:
- Drizzle the garlic sauce over the zucchini balls or serve it on the side for dipping.
- Pair with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Enjoy as an appetizer or light main course.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure you squeeze out as much water as possible from the grated zucchini to prevent the balls from becoming too soft.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of black pepper or chili flakes to the zucchini mixture.
- If you prefer a crispier texture, lightly spray the zucchini balls with cooking oil before baking.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Low in Calories: Zucchini and ricotta are low-calorie ingredients, making this dish a light yet satisfying meal.
- Rich in Protein: The ricotta cheese and egg provide a good amount of protein.
- Packed with Nutrients: Zucchini is rich in vitamins A and C, and the fresh dill in the sauce adds additional vitamins and antioxidants.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This dish is suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Low Carb Option: Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour for a lower-carb meal.
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store leftover zucchini balls and garlic sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat the zucchini balls in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
- Freeze: You can freeze the zucchini balls before baking. Freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this a perfect weeknight dinner.
- Nutritious and Delicious: Packed with vegetables and protein, it’s a healthy meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
- Versatile: Can be adapted to suit various dietary needs and preferences.
Conclusion:
This zucchini balls with garlic sauce recipe is a delightful and nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch, it’s a versatile dish that will quickly become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the combination of crispy zucchini balls and creamy garlic sauce! If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to like and subscribe for more delicious dishes. Enjoy your meal!