A cheesy squash blossom appetizer that looks like you are a professional in the kitchen.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
For the healthy squash blossom appetizer, you will need the following ingredients:
6 ounces Ricotta cheese
2 ounces grated cheese (you may use Mozzarella, Gruyere, or Parmesan)
8 – 10 Squash Blossoms, stamens removed
1 cup Breadcrumbs
2 Eggs
Salt and pepper and red pepper flakes to taste.
For frying or baking the healthy squash blossom appetizer, you will need the following:
A large shallow pan and oil for frying
A baking sheet covered with parchment paper
If you are frying them, you will need oil. You may use olive oil, avocado oil or canola oil.
If you are baking them, you will need a baking sheet covered in parchment paper.
Instructions:
Mix cheeses and spices to taste for the Healthy Squash Blossom Appetizer. If you like them spicier, add more red pepper.
Carefully open the squash blossom and remove the stamen. It will come out by gently pulling it. You will not need to cut it out. I remove all of them at once, before I start to fill them.
Once the stamen is removed, you can start to fill each blossom. Try to open the blossom all the way without tearing it. If you do happen to tear it, you will be able to fix it once it is filled.
Using a small spoon or your hands, fill each blossom with the cheese mixture. Gently twist the top or the blossom closed and lay it on a plate.
Beat eggs in one bowl. Set aside. Place the breadcrumbs in a second bowl.
Dip each filled blossom into the egg mixture, making sure to coat as much of it as you can. Let the excess drip off and then roll in breadcrumbs, again coating as much as you can.
If you are frying the squash blossoms, heat a small amount of oil in a shallow pan. Once it is shimmering, cook in hot oil until golden brown, about four minutes.
Drain and serve immediately.
If you do not want to fry the healthy squash blossom appetizer, at this point they can be baked. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Lay the squash blossoms on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes or until they are the color and crispness you desire.
Remove from the pan and serve immediately.
Check out our Gruyere Prosciutto and Spinach Bites for another great appetizer.