When it comes to summertime meals, there’s nothing quite as delightful as a dish that combines both fresh garden produce and a touch of culinary creativity. Grilled Zucchini Rolls with Cream Cheese are a perfect example of this delightful combination. Not only do they capture the essence of summer with their fresh ingredients, but they also offer a surprising twist with their delectable filling. Recently, I had the pleasure of preparing this recipe for a family gathering, and it was met with rave reviews. The smoky flavor from the grilled zucchini paired beautifully with the creamy, tangy filling, making it an instant hit. Even the kids, who are often skeptical of anything green, couldn’t resist reaching for seconds. This dish is not only a testament to the versatility of zucchini but also a reminder of how a simple dish can become the star of the table.
Ingredients
The success of Grilled Zucchini Rolls with Cream Cheese lies in the freshness and quality of its ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced lengthwise into thin strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Toothpicks, for securing the rolls
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your own Grilled Zucchini Rolls with Cream Cheese:
- Prepare the zucchini: Begin by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. While the grill heats up, slice the zucchinis into thin, uniform strips. This ensures even grilling and makes it easier to roll them later on.
- Season and grill: Drizzle the zucchini slices with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper. Place them on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are tender and have distinct grill marks. Remove from the grill and let them cool slightly.
- Make the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the rolls: Take a grilled zucchini slice and spread a generous amount of the cream cheese mixture along one side. Carefully roll the zucchini slice, starting from one end and securing it with a toothpick.
- Chill before serving: For best results, place the assembled zucchini rolls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes the rolls easier to handle.
Nutrition Facts
This recipe serves approximately 6 people. Each serving contains around 150 calories, making it a light yet satisfying appetizer or side dish.
Preparation Time
The total preparation time for Grilled Zucchini Rolls with Cream Cheese is approximately 45 minutes. This includes 15 minutes for prep, 10 minutes for grilling, and 20 minutes for assembling the rolls.
How to Serve
Grilled Zucchini Rolls with Cream Cheese are versatile and can be served in various ways to suit your dining occasion:
- As an appetizer: Serve on a platter with fresh herbs for garnish.
- As a side dish: Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
- At a picnic: Pack them in a cooler for a refreshing, no-fuss snack.
- At a party: Arrange them on skewers with other grilled vegetables for a colorful presentation.
- With a dipping sauce: Offer a side of marinara or ranch dressing for extra flavor.
Additional Tips
To ensure your Grilled Zucchini Rolls with Cream Cheese are a success, consider these additional tips:
- Use a mandoline: For perfectly even zucchini slices, use a mandoline slicer.
- Pre-soak toothpicks: To prevent toothpicks from burning on the grill, soak them in water for 10 minutes before using.
- Experiment with herbs: Feel free to substitute basil with other fresh herbs like dill or chives for a different flavor profile.
- Make ahead: These rolls can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Try different fillings: Add a sprinkle of crumbled feta or goat cheese to the filling for an extra layer of flavor.
FAQ Section
Here are some common questions and answers about Grilled Zucchini Rolls with Cream Cheese:
- Can I use a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill? Yes, a grill pan is a great alternative if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill. It will still provide the distinct grill marks and flavor.
- What can I use instead of cream cheese? If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative or even hummus.
- How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover zucchini rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
- Can I freeze the rolls? Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the zucchini may change upon thawing, affecting the overall quality of the dish.
- What other vegetables can I use? You can experiment with other vegetables like eggplant or bell peppers, but ensure they are sliced thin and grilled until tender.