Zucchini Balls with Herbed Rice and Garlic Dill Sauce

This delightful dish features savory zucchini balls paired with fragrant herbed rice and a refreshing garlic dill sauce. It’s a flavorful and healthy meal that’s perfect for any occasion, offering a delicious blend of textures and tastes.

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Total Time: 75 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Zucchini Balls:

  • 2 zucchini
  • Salt, to taste
  • 200g (1 cup) ricotta cheese
  • 80g (1/2 cup) breadcrumbs
  • Herbs of Provence, to taste
  • 60g (1/4 cup) Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg

For the Herbed Rice:

  • 250g (1 cup) rice
  • 1 onion
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 carrot
  • 500ml (2 cups) water
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Your favorite spices, to taste

For the Garlic Dill Sauce:

  • 50g (1/4 cup) Greek yogurt
  • 50g (1/4 cup) mayonnaise
  • Garlic, to taste
  • Fresh dill, to taste

Directions:

Prepare the Zucchini Balls:

  1. Grate the zucchini and mix with salt. Let it steep for 10 minutes.
  2. Squeeze out excess moisture from the zucchini.
  3. In a bowl, combine the zucchini, ricotta, breadcrumbs, Herbs of Provence, Parmesan, and egg. Mix well.
  4. Form the mixture into balls.
  5. Place the zucchini balls on a baking sheet and bake in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Herbed Rice:

  1. Rinse the rice well.
  2. Dice the onion and fry in olive oil until translucent.
  3. Add grated carrot and fry for 3-5 minutes.
  4. Add water, salt, black pepper, and your favorite spices. Stir well.
  5. Cover and cook over low heat for 25 minutes without opening the lid.

Prepare the Garlic Dill Sauce:

  1. In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, and fresh dill. Mix well.

To Serve:

  1. Serve the zucchini balls hot with the herbed rice.
  2. Drizzle the garlic dill sauce over the zucchini balls or use it as a dipping sauce.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Pair with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
  • Serve with a side of steamed vegetables for added nutrition.
  • Enjoy with a glass of chilled white wine.

Cooking Tips:

  • For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the zucchini ball mixture.
  • Ensure the zucchini is well-drained to avoid soggy balls.
  • Customize the herbed rice with spices like cumin, paprika, or turmeric for added depth.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Zucchini: Low in calories and rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants.
  • Ricotta Cheese: Provides protein and calcium, supporting bone health.
  • Greek Yogurt: High in protein and probiotics, aiding digestion.

Dietary Information:

  • Vegetarian: This dish is suitable for vegetarians.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the zucchini balls.
  • Low-Calorie: A light and healthy meal option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Flavorful: The combination of zucchini balls, herbed rice, and garlic dill sauce creates a symphony of flavors.
  • Healthy: Packed with nutritious ingredients, making it a guilt-free meal.
  • Versatile: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a party appetizer.

Conclusion

Enjoy these Zucchini Balls with Herbed Rice and Garlic Dill Sauce, a nutritious and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its delicious combination of savory zucchini, aromatic rice, and refreshing sauce, this meal is sure to delight your taste buds. Serve hot and enjoy the wonderful blend of flavors and textures!