When you’re looking for a light, flavorful, and nutritious appetizer that’s both easy to prepare and visually appealing, these zucchini and cottage cheese bites are the perfect choice. This dish brings together the freshness of zucchini with the creamy richness of cottage cheese, enhanced by the crunch of walnuts and the aromatic notes of dill and garlic. Ideal for any meal, these bites are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
For the Zucchini:
- 1 zucchini (about 300 grams)
- 0.3 teaspoon salt
- Ground black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
For the Filling:
- 180 grams cottage cheese
- 30 grams walnuts, chopped
- 15 grams fresh dill, chopped
- 50 grams sour cream
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 pinches of salt
Instructions:
- Prepare the Zucchini:
- Wash the zucchini thoroughly and slice it into thin rounds, about 1/4 inch thick.
- In a bowl, toss the zucchini slices with salt, ground black pepper, and smoked paprika, ensuring each slice is evenly coated.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the zucchini slices in a single layer. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and slightly tender.
- Transfer the cooked zucchini slices to a plate lined with paper towels to remove any excess oil. Let them cool slightly.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, chopped walnuts, fresh dill, sour cream, minced garlic, and a couple of pinches of salt.
- Mix everything together until you have a smooth, creamy mixture. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Assemble the Appetizer:
- Take a spoonful of the cottage cheese mixture and place it on top of each cooked zucchini slice.
- Use the back of the spoon to spread the filling evenly over the zucchini, creating a small mound of the mixture.
- For an extra touch of flavor and presentation, you can sprinkle a few extra chopped walnuts or fresh dill on top of each bite.
- Serve:
- Arrange the zucchini and cottage cheese bites on a serving platter.
- Serve them immediately as a tasty appetizer or snack.
Conclusion:
These zucchini and cottage cheese bites are a delightful addition to any meal. The combination of tender zucchini with the rich, creamy filling creates a balance of flavors and textures that’s both satisfying and refreshing. The hint of smoked paprika adds a subtle depth, while the walnuts provide a pleasant crunch. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a light snack, these bites are sure to impress with their taste and simplicity.