Grilled zucchini rolls with herbs and cheese make for an irresistible appetizer that beautifully combines the freshness of zucchini, the aromatic flavors of herbs, and the creamy richness of the cheese. This delectable dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavors that will leave your taste buds wanting more. In this article, we will dive into the delightful world of grilled zucchini rolls, exploring the ingredients, preparation, and mouthwatering combination of herbs and cheese that make this dish a crowd-pleasing favorite.
1. Choose Fresh Zucchini:
Start by selecting fresh zucchini with vibrant color and firm texture. Look for zucchini that is medium-sized and evenly shaped for ease of rolling. The freshness of the zucchini contributes to the overall taste and texture of the dish.
2. Prep the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchini thoroughly and trim off the ends. Using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer, slice the zucchini lengthwise into thin strips, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. These strips will serve as the base for rolling the filling.
3. Marinate or Brush with Olive Oil:
To enhance the flavors and prevent the zucchini from sticking to the grill, marinate the zucchini strips in a mixture of olive oil, salt, and pepper for about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can brush each strip with olive oil just before grilling.
4. Prepare the Herb and Cheese Filling:
In a bowl, combine your choice of fresh herbs, such as basil, parsley, dill, or cilantro, finely chopped. Add your preferred cheese, such as goat cheese, cream cheese, or feta cheese, and mix well. You can also incorporate additional ingredients like minced garlic, lemon zest, or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
5. Assemble the Rolls:
Lay out a zucchini strip on a clean surface and spread a thin layer of the herb and cheese filling along one end. Gently roll up the zucchini strip, securing the filling inside. Repeat this process with the remaining zucchini strips and filling.
6. Grill the Zucchini Rolls:
Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the zucchini rolls on the grill, seam side down, and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the zucchini becomes slightly tender. Be careful not to overcook, as the zucchini should still have some crispness.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer the grilled zucchini rolls to a serving platter. Garnish with additional fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal. You can also squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the rolls to brighten the flavors.
8. Enjoy:
Serve the grilled zucchini rolls as a delightful appetizer or as part of a Mediterranean-inspired platter. These rolls are best enjoyed when they are still warm, allowing the flavors to meld together. Share and savor each bite of these herb and cheese-filled delights.
Tips and Variations:
Tips:
1. Use a Grill Pan: If you don't have access to an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan or a stovetop griddle to achieve beautiful grill marks on the zucchini strips. Make sure to preheat the grill pan before adding the zucchini.
2. Choose the Right Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese to find the flavor profile you prefer. Goat cheese, feta cheese, cream cheese, or even mozzarella can work well. Consider mixing different cheeses together for a more complex and creamy filling.
3. Add a Crunchy Element: For some added texture, incorporate chopped nuts like toasted pine nuts, almonds, or walnuts into the herb and cheese filling. The nuts will provide a delightful crunch and complement the creamy filling.
4. Include Sliced Deli Meats: To make the zucchini rolls heartier and more substantial, add a layer of sliced deli meats such as prosciutto, smoked turkey, or salami before spreading the herb and cheese filling. This will add a savory and salty element to the rolls.
5. Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze: Just before serving, drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the grilled zucchini rolls. The sweet and tangy flavor of the glaze will complement the herbs and cheese, enhancing the overall taste.
6. Roast Garlic: If you're a garlic lover, roast a few garlic cloves and mash them into a paste. Mix the roasted garlic paste with the herb and cheese filling to infuse the rolls with a delicious roasted garlic flavor.
7. Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs to customize the flavor of the filling. Fresh herbs like mint, chives, or tarragon can add unique and refreshing notes to the rolls.
8. Lemon Zest or Juice: For a burst of citrusy flavor, add some lemon zest to the herb and cheese filling or squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the grilled zucchini rolls before serving.
9. Make Ahead: You can prepare the zucchini rolls in advance and refrigerate them until ready to grill. This makes them a convenient option for entertaining or meal prepping.
10. Serve with Dipping Sauce: Accompany the grilled zucchini rolls with a flavorful dipping sauce such as tzatziki, hummus, or a garlic-infused yogurt sauce. These dips will add an extra layer of creaminess and tanginess to the rolls.
Variations:
1. Mediterranean-Inspired: Add a Mediterranean twist by incorporating sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and fresh basil into the herb and cheese filling. The combination of flavors will transport you to the Mediterranean coast.
2. Smoky Flavor: Enhance the smoky flavor by adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or chipotle powder to the herb and cheese filling. This will give the rolls a subtle, smoky kick.
3. Pesto Filling: Replace the herb and cheese filling with a generous layer of homemade or store-bought pesto. The aromatic basil and garlic in the pesto will infuse the rolls with vibrant flavors.
4. Grilled Vegetable Medley: Expand the filling by adding a variety of grilled vegetables, such as roasted bell peppers, eggplant, or asparagus, alongside the cheese and herbs. This creates a colorful and satisfying combination of flavors.
5. Mexican-Inspired: Create a Mexican-inspired version by using a mixture of cream cheese, chopped cilantro, diced jalapeños, and a squeeze of lime juice for the filling. Serve the rolls with a side of salsa or guacamole.
6. Caprese Style: For a classic Caprese twist, layer slices of fresh tomato and mozzarella cheese on the zucchini strips before rolling. Add some fresh basil leaves and drizzle with balsamic glaze for a delightful Caprese flavor profile.
7. Asian Fusion: Incorporate Asian flavors by adding a touch of soy sauce, sesame oil, and grated ginger to the herb and cheese filling. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for an Asian-inspired twist.
8. Vegan Version: Create a vegan option by using dairy-free cream cheese or a plant-based cheese alternative. Fill the zucchini rolls with a mixture of vegan cheese, fresh herbs, and flavorful spices.
9. Crab or Shrimp Filling: For an elegant twist, mix cooked and shredded crab or shrimp with cream cheese, herbs, and a dash of Old Bay seasoning. Spread the mixture onto the zucchini strips and roll them up for a seafood-infused treat.
10. Breakfast Rolls: Turn these zucchini rolls into a delightful breakfast or brunch option by filling them with scrambled eggs, cheese, and your favorite breakfast ingredients like bacon or sautéed vegetables.
Ingredients:
- - 2 medium zucchini
- - Olive oil
- - Salt and pepper
- - 1 cup herb of your choice (e.g., basil, parsley, dill), finely chopped
- - 1 cup cheese of your choice (e.g., goat cheese, cream cheese, feta), softened
- - Optional: additional fillings like sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, or sliced deli meats
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Wash the zucchini and trim off the ends. Using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer, slice the zucchini lengthwise into thin strips, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick.
3. Place the zucchini strips in a bowl and drizzle them with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper, and toss gently to coat the strips evenly.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the chopped herbs and softened cheese. Mix well until the herbs are evenly distributed throughout the cheese.
5. Lay out a zucchini strip on a clean surface and spread a thin layer of the herb and cheese filling along one end. Optional: Add any additional fillings, such as sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or sliced deli meats, on top of the filling.
6. Gently roll up the zucchini strip, starting from the end with the filling, until you reach the other end. Repeat this process with the remaining zucchini strips and filling.
7. Place the zucchini rolls on the preheated grill, seam side down. Grill for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear on the zucchini and it becomes slightly tender. Be careful not to overcook, as you want the zucchini to maintain some crispness.
8. Once grilled, transfer the zucchini rolls to a serving platter.
9. Serve the grilled zucchini rolls as an appetizer or part of a larger meal. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.