Zucchini Balls with Rice and Garlic Sauce

by
Pin4
Share
Tweet

This delightful dinner combines crisp zucchini balls with fluffy rice and a creamy garlic sauce. It’s an easy-to-make meal that offers a variety of textures and flavors, making it a great choice for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family or hosting a gathering, this dish is sure to please.

Preparation Time:

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients:

For the Zucchini Balls:

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

For the Rice:

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

For the Garlic Sauce:

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

Directions:

  1. 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.
  2. 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 fully incorporated.
    • Shape the mixture into small balls.
  3. 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.
  4. Prepare the Rice:
    • Rinse the rice well under cold water until the water runs clear.
    • In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
    • Add the chopped onion and fry until translucent.
    • Add the grated carrot and continue to fry for 3-5 minutes.
    • Add the rinsed rice to the pot with the vegetables.
    • Pour in the water, add salt, black pepper, and any additional spices you prefer.
    • Cover the pot and cook over low heat for 25 minutes without opening the lid.
  5. Make the Garlic Sauce:
    • In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, and chopped dill. Mix well.
  6. Serve:
    • Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork.
    • Serve the baked zucchini balls over a bed of rice, drizzled with the garlic sauce.
    • Garnish with additional fresh dill if desired.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Pair with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
  • Add a side of steamed vegetables for extra nutrition.

Cooking Tips:

  • Make sure to squeeze out as much water as possible from the grated zucchini to ensure the balls hold their shape.
  • Feel free to add other spices or herbs to the rice and zucchini mixture to suit your taste.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Zucchini: Low in calories and rich in vitamins A and C.
  • Ricotta Cheese: Provides protein and calcium.
  • Carrots: High in beta-carotene and fiber.
  • Greek Yogurt: A good source of protein and probiotics.

Dietary Information:

  • Vegetarian: Yes
  • Gluten-Free: No (use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed)
  • Dairy-Free: No (use dairy-free cheese substitutes if needed)

Storage:

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • It’s an easy and flavorful meal that combines a variety of textures and tastes.
  • Perfect for a healthy and satisfying dinner.
  • The garlic sauce adds a creamy and tangy flavor that complements the zucchini balls perfectly.

Conclusion: This recipe for zucchini balls with rice and garlic sauce is a delightful and easy-to-make dinner option. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a satisfying meal that your family and friends will love. Enjoy the deliciousness and simplicity of this dish!

Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. Can I use different cheese in the zucchini balls?
    • Yes, you can substitute with other cheeses like feta or goat cheese.
  2. How can I make the garlic sauce spicier?
    • Add more minced garlic or a pinch of chili flakes.
  3. Can I freeze the zucchini balls?
    • Yes, freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven.
  4. What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
    • Cottage cheese or a dairy-free cheese substitute can be used.
  5. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
    • Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time and liquid.
  6. How can I make the rice more flavorful?
    • Add herbs or spices like turmeric, cumin, or paprika to the rice.
  7. Can I use fresh dill instead of dried?
    • Yes, fresh dill provides a brighter flavor.
  8. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
    • Gently reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
  9. How can I make this dish vegan?
    • Use vegan cheese substitutes and replace the egg with a flaxseed or chia seed egg.
  10. Can I add other vegetables to the rice?
    • Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers or peas for extra nutrit
Pin4
Share
Tweet