Pesto Zucchini Roses are a delicious and elegant appetizer or side dish perfect for a summer party, especially an Olympics
watch party with their flower-like presentation! Here's a recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:– 2-3 medium zucchini– Extra virgin olive oil– Salt and pepper to taste– 1/2 cup store-bought or homemade pesto
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)– Puff pastry (optional, for a richer version)
Prepare the Zucchini: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Using a mandoline (or a very sharp knife) slice the zucchini lengthwise into thin, long ribbons.
Season the Zucchini: In a large bowl, toss the zucchini ribbons with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Simple Rose:– Arrange a few zucchini ribbons slightly overlapping in a circular pattern on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Start with the wider ribbons on the outside and work your way in with the thinner ones.
Bake: Bake the zucchini roses, simple or puff pastry versions, for 15-20 minutes or until the zucchini is tender and slightly golden brown.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Storage:
These roses are best fresh. No matter how much you’ve worked to eliminate wateriness, the zucchini still carries some extra moisture, which will eventually soften the pastry.