Roasted Stuffed Squash Blossoms

Ingredients and Weight:

• 24 squash blossoms (approximately 12 ounces)
• 1 cup fresh ricotta cheese (8 ounces)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (2 ounces)
• ¼ cup finely chopped fresh basil leaves (0.5 ounces)
• ¼ cup finely chopped fresh Italian parsley leaves (0.5 ounces)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Preparation Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

10-12 minutes

Difficulty Level:

2/5 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Gently rinse the squash blossoms and pat them dry with paper towels.
3. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, basil, parsley, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Carefully open each squash blossom and fill it with about 1 tablespoon of the ricotta mixture.
5. Place the stuffed squash blossoms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the squash blossoms.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the squash blossoms are golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly.

Nutritional Information:

Per serving (3 squash blossoms):

• Calories: 120
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated fat: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g

Dish Characteristics:

• Crispy and golden-brown
• Delicate and floral
• Savory and flavorful
• Perfect as an appetizer or light lunch

User Comments:

• "These stuffed squash blossoms are the perfect blend of sweet and savory. The ricotta filling is creamy and flavorful, and the crispy outer shell is addictive."
• "I love the delicate flavor of the squash blossoms. They're a unique and elegant way to start a meal."
• "These are so easy to make, but they look incredibly impressive. I always get compliments when I serve them."
• "I substituted goat cheese for the ricotta, and it was delicious! I also added a bit of chopped sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor."
• "I've made these stuffed squash blossoms several times, and they're always a hit. They're perfect for special occasions or a simple weeknight meal."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Handle the squash blossoms gently to avoid tearing them.
• Don't overfill the squash blossoms, or they will burst while baking.
• Serve the stuffed squash blossoms immediately, as they will wilt quickly.