Imagine biting into a delicate, golden-brown zucchini flower that's crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside - a culinary masterpiece that transforms a simple garden ingredient into a restaurant-worthy delicacy. These Air Fried Stuffed Zucchini Flowers are not just a recipe; they're an experience that will transport your taste buds straight to the sun-drenched kitchens of Italy, where fresh, simple ingredients become extraordinary.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 zucchini flowers
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Carefully wash the zucchini flowers under cold running water, gently opening them without tearing. Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, beaten egg, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix until smooth and well-incorporated.
- Using a small spoon, carefully stuff each zucchini flower with the cheese mixture, gently twisting the top of the flower to seal the filling inside. Be careful not to overfill.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the stuffed zucchini flowers in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook in batches.
- Spray the top of the zucchini flowers lightly with cooking spray to help achieve a crispy exterior.
- Air fry for 5-6 minutes, or until the flowers are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted and heated through.
- Carefully remove the stuffed zucchini flowers from the air fryer using tongs. Let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil before serving.
Tips
- Handle with Care: Zucchini flowers are incredibly delicate, so wash them gently and pat completely dry to prevent tearing.
- Don't Overstuff: Fill the flowers just enough to seal the edges, preventing the cheese mixture from leaking during cooking.
- Spacing Matters: Arrange flowers in a single layer without overcrowding to ensure even, crispy cooking.
- Spray for Crispiness: A light cooking spray helps achieve that perfect golden exterior without excess oil.
- Batch Cooking: If your air fryer is small, cook in batches to maintain optimal temperature and crispiness.
- Serve Immediately: These are best enjoyed hot and fresh, right out of the air fryer when the cheese is melted and the exterior is perfectly crisp.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 9g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 45mg
