Ingredients
2 cups fresh zucchini blossoms, cleaned and stems trimmed
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup chilled sparkling water
Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- Gently clean the zucchini blossoms, trim stems, and check inside for debris.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan, basil, parsley, garlic, salt, pepper, and lemon zest until smooth.
- Carefully open each blossom and spoon about 1 tablespoon of filling inside. Lightly twist the petals to close.
- In a separate bowl, whisk flour and chilled sparkling water into a smooth, slightly thick batter.
- Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Dip each stuffed blossom in the batter, letting excess drip off, then fry in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
- Transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm with a sprinkle of Parmesan or herbs if desired.
Notes
Add red pepper flakes to the filling for a mild kick.
Swap ricotta for goat cheese for a tangier flavor.
Bake at 400°F for 10–12 minutes for a lighter version.
Use chilled sparkling water to keep the batter airy and crisp.
Handle blossoms gently and avoid overfilling to prevent tearing.
Best served immediately for the crispiest texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 4 blossoms)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 45mg