Imagine transforming delicate, sun-kissed zucchini blossoms into a culinary masterpiece that whispers of Italian summers and sophisticated flavors. These ethereal flowers, filled with a vibrant radish and herb cream cheese, are not just a recipe—they're an experience that will transport your taste buds to the rolling hills of Tuscany. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a luxurious appetizer, these zucchini blossoms promise to be your secret weapon in elevating home cooking from ordinary to extraordinary.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 12 blossoms
Ingredients
- 12 zucchini blossoms
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup radishes, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (basil, chives)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Carefully rinse zucchini blossoms under cold water, gently opening petals and removing interior stamen without tearing delicate flower
- Pat zucchini blossoms dry using clean paper towels, ensuring no moisture remains to prevent soggy filling
- In medium mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, finely chopped radishes, and fresh chopped herbs, mixing thoroughly until ingredients are evenly distributed
- Season cream cheese mixture with salt and pepper, tasting and adjusting seasoning as needed for balanced flavor profile
- Using small spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each zucchini blossom with cream cheese mixture, ensuring not to overfill and leaving small space at top for closing
- Gently twist flower petals to seal filling, creating delicate closed package
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) or prepare light pan-frying setup with olive oil
- Choose cooking method: either bake on parchment-lined sheet for 12-15 minutes until edges slightly crisp, or lightly pan-fry in olive oil for 2-3 minutes per side until golden
- Remove from heat, let cool for 2-3 minutes, and serve immediately as appetizer or light starter
Tips
- • Handle zucchini blossoms like delicate silk: Use gentle hands when cleaning and filling to prevent tearing • Ensure cream cheese is truly softened for smooth, easy filling • Use a piping bag for precise, mess-free filling of blossoms • Don't overcrowd the baking sheet or pan to allow even cooking • Fresh herbs make a massive difference—opt for just-picked basil and chives if possible • If pan-frying, keep heat medium-low to prevent burning the delicate blossoms • Serve immediately for the best texture and temperature • Experiment with additional herbs like thyme or mint for unique flavor variations
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 45kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 2g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 10mg
