Zucchini Roll-Ups with Creamy Cheese and Ham

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These Zucchini Roll-Ups with Creamy Cheese and Ham are a healthy, flavorful, and refreshing dish that makes for a great appetizer, side dish, or even a light meal. The zucchini base is baked to perfection, creating a soft, yet sturdy structure, and then filled with a rich, creamy layer of Philadelphia cheese and ham (or your choice of vegetables). This dish is light, yet satisfying, with the fresh flavors of parsley, Parmesan, and the creamy cheese filling that meld together beautifully. Serve it cold for a delightful and elegant bite.

Preparation Time:

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including chilling time)
  • Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

  • 3 medium zucchinis
  • 5 eggs
  • 5 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt, to taste
  • Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), for greasing and drizzling
  • Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
  • 250 grams Philadelphia cheese (or any other creamy cheese like cream cheese)
  • 200 grams cooked ham, sliced thin (optional)
  • Optional: Additional vegetables such as thinly sliced tomatoes, if not using ham

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Zucchini:

    • Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and trim the ends.
    • Using a box grater or food processor, grate the zucchinis.
    • Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth, and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial to ensure that the roll holds together well and isn’t too watery, which could affect the texture.

  2. Prepare the Egg Mixture:

    • In a large mixing bowl, crack the 5 eggs and whisk them until well beaten.
    • Add the 5 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese, a pinch of salt, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to the eggs. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

  3. Combine Zucchini and Egg Mixture:

    • Add the grated zucchini to the egg mixture and stir until everything is evenly incorporated.
    • Finely chop the fresh parsley and add it to the mixture. Stir again to ensure the parsley is evenly distributed throughout.

  4. Bake the Zucchini Base:

    • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
    • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with olive oil.
    • Spread the zucchini and egg mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet, forming a rectangle about 1 cm thick.
    • Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the mixture is set and lightly golden on top. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.

  5. Prepare the Filling:

    • While the zucchini base is baking, prepare the filling. In a bowl, spread the Philadelphia cheese (or other creamy cheese) to soften it slightly.
    • If you’re using cooked ham, slice it into thin pieces. If you prefer a vegetarian version, prepare your additional vegetables (such as thinly sliced tomatoes) and set them aside.

  6. Assemble the Roll:

    • Once the zucchini base is baked and slightly cooled, carefully spread the Philadelphia cheese evenly over the surface of the zucchini base.
    • Layer the cooked ham (or your chosen vegetables) evenly over the cheese.

  7. Roll the Zucchini:

    • Using the parchment paper to help, carefully roll the zucchini base from one end to the other, creating a tight roll. Be sure to roll it tightly but gently to avoid tearing the zucchini.
    • Seal the seam by placing it on the bottom, ensuring it stays secure.
    • Wrap the rolled zucchini in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow it to set and for the flavors to meld together.

  8. Serve:

    • Once chilled, remove the zucchini roll from the refrigerator and unwrap it.
    • Slice the roll into 1-2 cm thick slices and arrange them on a serving platter.
    • Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired and serve cold.

Cooking Tips:

  • Squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the zucchini to prevent the roll from becoming soggy.
  • If you prefer a vegetarian version, feel free to omit the ham and add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms.
  • For extra flavor, you can season the zucchini mixture with garlic powder, oregano, or a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 250-300
  • Protein: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sodium: 400mg

The Origins and Popularity of Zucchini Dishes:

Zucchini is a popular vegetable in Mediterranean and Italian cuisines, known for its mild flavor and versatile nature. It can be used in both savory and sweet dishes, and it pairs wonderfully with cheese and herbs. This dish, with its combination of zucchini and cream cheese, is reminiscent of Mediterranean flavors, where fresh vegetables and cheese are commonly paired together. Zucchini rolls are a popular way to create healthy, low-carb dishes that are still rich in flavor. This recipe takes the classic concept of rolled vegetables and elevates it by adding creamy cheese and a savory filling, making it a delicious and light meal or appetizer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

You’ll love this recipe because it’s light, flavorful, and easy to prepare. The zucchini provides a fresh, delicate flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese and savory ham (or vegetables). The Parmesan cheese adds a nice depth of flavor, while the lemon zest and parsley keep things bright and fresh. This dish can be served as a healthy snack, appetizer, or even a light main course.

Health Benefits of Zucchini Roll-Ups:

This dish offers a range of health benefits:

  • Zucchini is low in calories and high in fiber, promoting healthy digestion and providing essential vitamins like vitamin C and vitamin A.
  • Parmesan cheese is a great source of protein and calcium, important for bone health.
  • Eggs provide high-quality protein and essential amino acids.
  • Fresh parsley is rich in vitamin K and antioxidants, supporting healthy skin and the immune system.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve these Zucchini Roll-Ups with a light tomato salad or a fresh cucumber salad for a well-rounded meal.
  • Pair them with garlic bread or whole grain crackers for added texture and flavor.
  • Enjoy with a glass of chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay to complement the freshness of the dish.

Tips:

  • Store leftovers: You can store any leftover zucchini roll-ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • For a spicy kick, add chili flakes or hot sauce to the filling mixture.
  • If you’re making these for a crowd, you can prepare the roll-ups ahead of time and simply slice them right before serving.

Variations to Try:

  • Cheese and Herb Stuffing: Swap the ham for a cheese filling made with ricotta and fresh herbs like basil and oregano.
  • Roasted Vegetable Zucchini Rolls: Roast the zucchini before rolling it up to add extra flavor and depth.
  • Smoked Salmon Rolls: Use smoked salmon instead of ham for a seafood variation.

Conclusion:

These Zucchini Roll-Ups with Creamy Cheese and Ham are a delightful, healthy, and flavorful dish that will impress your guests or satisfy your craving for a light meal. The fresh flavors, creamy texture, and versatility make it a perfect addition to any meal. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or a light dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

  • Can I make these roll-ups ahead of time?
    Yes! You can prepare and assemble the roll-ups a day ahead, then refrigerate them. Just slice and serve when ready.

  • Can I use other types of cheese?
    Absolutely! You can substitute the Philadelphia cheese with cream cheese, goat cheese, or ricotta for a different flavor.

  • What can I substitute for cooked ham?
    You can use chicken, tofu, or simply add more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.

Enjoy your Zucchini Roll-Ups and happy cooking!

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