Zucchini Cordon Bleu
Category: Main Dishes
Servings: 10
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Round zucchini | 300g |
| Provola cheese | 150g |
| Herb-cooked ham | 100g |
| Eggs | 4 |
| All-purpose flour | 100g |
| Bread crumbs | 100g |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Fine salt | To taste |
| Peanut oil (for frying) | As needed |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the zucchini:
Begin by cutting off the top of the round zucchinis. Using a mandolin slicer, slice the zucchinis into half-centimeter thick rounds. Set the zucchini slices aside for assembly. -
-
Slice the provola cheese and ham:
Slice the provola cheese and herb-cooked ham into thin, manageable pieces that will fit between the zucchini slices. -
Assemble the zucchini cordon bleu:
Take one slice of zucchini and place a piece of provola cheese on top. Add a slice of the herb-cooked ham, then cover with another zucchini slice, creating a sandwich-like structure. Repeat this step with all the zucchini slices. -
Prepare the breading stations:
In one bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt and black pepper. In a second bowl, place the all-purpose flour and season it with a little salt. In a third bowl, place the bread crumbs. -
Bread the zucchini:
Start by dipping each zucchini sandwich first into the flour, ensuring it’s coated evenly. Then, dip the floured zucchini into the beaten eggs, coating it well. Follow up by rolling the zucchini in the bread crumbs, ensuring it’s fully covered. Set the breaded zucchini aside on a plate while you continue the process with the remaining pieces. -
Fry the zucchini cordon bleu:
Heat the peanut oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium-high heat until it reaches about 165°C (330°F). You can check the temperature using a cooking thermometer. Carefully place the breaded zucchini sandwiches into the hot oil one at a time, ensuring they don’t crowd the pan. Fry each for about 2 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp on both sides. -
Drain and serve:
Once the zucchini cordon bleu are fried to perfection, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil. Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve hot and enjoy the crunchy, cheesy, and flavorful zucchini cordon bleu.
This recipe for Zucchini Cordon Bleu is a perfect vegetarian twist on the classic dish. With fresh zucchini acting as the crispy outer layer and a filling of melty provola cheese and savory herb-cooked ham, it’s a delightful main course that will satisfy your taste buds. Ideal for those looking for a lighter yet indulgent dish, it’s perfect for both family dinners and gatherings. Enjoy this crispy treat with a side salad or your favorite dipping sauce!
