Roasted Zucchini Roll-Ups with Fresh Dill | Ethnic Appetizer

Zucchini is such a versatile ingredient that you can incorporate with many different vegetables easily. Note that it is technically a fruit (Just like tomato). Nevertheless, the flavor does not come out until you elevate it with spices. For example, some kind of magic happens when fresh dill and zucchini come together. It is hard to find any other pair of ingredients that go together so well. They are widely used as a pair in Turkish and Greek cuisine.

Today’s recipe has a different approach when compared to regular broiled zucchini appetizers. It is not grilled but cooked in a pot that gives it a distinct flavor. The way it is prepared puts the aroma of fresh dill more upfront. Overall, it is a very basic formula that is so easy to prepare.

Roasted Zucchini Roll-Ups with Fresh Dill | Ethnic Appetizer

Recipe by OzgurCourse: Appetizers, MezzeCuisine: Turkish, Greek
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

20

minutes
Cooking time

40

minutes
Calories

310

kcal
Total time

1

hour 

Ingredients

  • 4 medium-sized zucchinis

  • 1 medium-sized onion

  • 1 garlic clove, crushed

  • 1/4 cup white rice

  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice

  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  • Wash and drain the zucchinis. Do not peel, but cut the bottom and top ends.
  • We need to make thin slices lengthwise. Use a mandolin or a hand slicer, and slice the zucchinis into long thin slices.
  • Grate the onion.
  • In a medium sauce pan, add the olive oil.
  • Add the onion and garlic into pan, and cook for about 4-5 minutes while stirring.
  • Wash and drain the rice, and add it into pan as well.
  • Add 1/2 cup water, and continue to cook until the rice gets soft.
  • Assemble the zucchini rolls
  • In another pan (large one), roll and place the zucchini slices.Rolling the zucchini slices
  • Once all the zucchinis are rolled, pour the rice mixture on top evenly.
  • Close the lid, and cook over low heat until the zucchinis get soft.
  • Add chopped dill and drizzle lemon juice on top before serving.

Notes

  • If you prefer, you can slightly broil the zucchini slices before you start rolling them. This method helps to make them stand strong while rolling and pressing. Do not add salt, though, as they would get too mushy.
  • Leave the center part of the zucchinis with seeds for some other recipe, and only use the outer slices.

What is special about zucchini?

Zucchini is a low-calorie food, yet it is packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals. Additionally, its fiber content is very high, making it an important ingredient for a digestion friendly diet. There are many different varieties, and their colors range from light green to solid deep green.

Does zucchini have a strong flavor?

Zucchinis have a mild flavor. Nevertheless, they can effectually uplift the aroma of spices and herbs that are cooked along with them. It would be fair to say that they are a good fit for meals with almost any other vegetable.

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