This Zucchini Roll with Cream Cheese and Ham is a fresh, savory, and light dish that makes for an excellent appetizer or light meal. The combination of grated zucchini, eggs, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley creates a flavorful base, which is then baked into a soft, golden layer. The zucchini roll is filled with cream cheese and optional cooked ham (or vegetables for a vegetarian version), and then rolled up tightly for a beautiful presentation. Chilled for a few hours, this dish is perfect for serving in slices as a refreshing, healthy bite.
Preparation Time
- Active Preparation: 20 minutes
- Baking Time: 25 minutes
- Chilling Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 3 medium zucchini, grated
- 5 eggs
- 5 tbsp Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt, to taste
- Extra virgin olive oil, for greasing
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- 250g (about 1 cup) cream cheese (Philadelphia or other)
- 200g (about 7 oz) cooked ham (optional; substitute with thinly sliced tomatoes or other vegetables)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F).
- Wash and grate the zucchini using a grater with large holes.
- Sprinkle the grated zucchini with salt, mix well, and let sit in a colander for 10 minutes to drain excess moisture.
- Squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the zucchini using a clean kitchen towel.
Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture
- In a large bowl, beat the 5 eggs.
- Add 5 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
- Stir in the drained zucchini and mix until everything is well combined.
Step 3: Bake the Zucchini Roll
- Line a 30 x 40 cm baking tray with parchment paper and lightly grease with olive oil.
- Pour the zucchini mixture into the tray and spread it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until set and slightly golden.
Step 4: Cool & Add the Filling
- Remove the zucchini layer from the oven and let it cool for 15 minutes.
- Place a layer of plastic wrap on a flat surface and carefully transfer the baked zucchini layer onto it.
- Spread the cream cheese evenly over the zucchini layer.
- Lay the ham slices (or alternative vegetables) evenly on top of the cream cheese.
Step 5: Roll & Chill
- Carefully roll up the zucchini layer, using the plastic wrap to help keep the roll tight.
- Twist the ends of the plastic wrap to seal the roll.
- Place the roll in the refrigerator to chill for 2 hours.
Step 6: Slice & Serve
- After chilling, remove the plastic wrap.
- Slice the roll into 1-2 cm pieces and arrange them on a serving dish.
- Serve as an appetizer or light meal with a side salad.
Serving Suggestions
This zucchini roll is perfect as an appetizer or light meal, especially when paired with a fresh side salad. You can also serve it as a healthy snack or as part of a picnic spread. To make it a more filling meal, serve with some crusty bread or a soup of your choice.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, about 4-6 servings)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Protein: 8 grams
- Fat: 15 grams
- Carbohydrates: 6 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Sugar: 3 grams
- Sodium: 300 mg
The Origins and Popularity of This Recipe
Zucchini is a popular vegetable in many cuisines around the world, often used in both savory and sweet dishes. The idea of creating savory rolls using zucchini is rooted in Mediterranean cuisine, where vegetables like zucchini are often prepared in various forms such as fritters, stuffed vegetables, and baked dishes. This particular recipe, combining zucchini with eggs and cheese, offers a fresh and light option that is both nutritious and easy to prepare.
The popularity of zucchini dishes has increased in recent years, especially with the rise of low-carb and gluten-free eating. This dish is a perfect example of how vegetables can be used creatively to create a healthy, filling meal. The versatility of zucchini also makes this roll a great option for customizing with different fillings, from ham to other vegetables.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Zucchini Roll with Cream Cheese and Ham is a delightful way to enjoy zucchini in a unique and flavorful form. The zucchini layer is light, moist, and slightly savory, while the cream cheese and ham (or vegetables) add a rich, creamy filling. This dish is also incredibly versatile, allowing you to experiment with different fillings and flavors. It’s easy to make, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick, healthy lunch.
Health Benefits of This Recipe
Zucchini is a low-calorie, nutrient-rich vegetable that is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as important antioxidants. It’s also a good source of fiber, which helps support digestive health. The eggs in the recipe provide high-quality protein, while the Parmesan cheese offers a source of calcium, which is important for bone health. Using cream cheese adds a creamy richness, but you can easily opt for a lighter version if desired. The recipe can easily be made vegetarian by replacing the ham with other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or tomatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this zucchini roll with a fresh green salad, or pair it with grilled vegetables like bell peppers or tomatoes for a complete meal. If you’re looking to add more protein, try serving it with grilled chicken or fish. This roll can also be paired with a tangy vinaigrette or a creamy dressing to enhance its flavors.
Tips
- Make sure to drain the zucchini well to avoid excess moisture in the final roll.
- If you prefer a more flavorful roll, add additional herbs like basil or oregano to the egg mixture.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese with a non-dairy cream cheese and opt for a vegan cheese substitute.
- If you don’t have parchment paper, you can lightly grease the baking tray with olive oil before pouring in the zucchini mixture.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Zucchini Roll: Replace the ham with thinly sliced tomatoes, spinach, or roasted mushrooms for a vegetarian filling.
- Spicy Zucchini Roll: Add red pepper flakes or chopped chili peppers to the egg mixture for a spicy kick.
- Cheese Lovers’ Zucchini Roll: Mix in some shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese along with the Parmesan for an extra cheesy flavor.
Conclusion
This Zucchini Roll with Cream Cheese and Ham is a versatile, light, and healthy dish that makes a great appetizer, light meal, or snack. The fresh zucchini is combined with eggs and cheese to create a flavorful base, while the filling can be customized to suit your tastes. Chilled and sliced into bite-sized pieces, this dish is both delicious and visually appealing. Enjoy it with a salad or as part of a larger meal for a satisfying and nutritious option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make the zucchini roll ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can make the roll in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before slicing and serving.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute the Parmesan with other cheeses such as feta, mozzarella, or cheddar, depending on your preference.
Q: Can I freeze the zucchini roll?
A: Yes, you can freeze the assembled zucchini roll before chilling it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before slicing and serving.
Q: How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: This recipe is already gluten-free if you use gluten-free flour or skip the flour altogether in the filling. Be sure to check the labels on your cream cheese and other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.