Introduction:
Zucchini Balls with Rice and Garlic Sauce is a flavorful and healthy dish that combines the fresh and savory taste of zucchini with the richness of garlic sauce.
The zucchini balls are crispy on the outside while being tender and moist on the inside, making them a delicious and nutritious alternative to meatballs.
Paired with a bed of fluffy rice and smothered in a creamy garlic sauce, this dish is perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
For Zucchini Balls:
2 medium zucchinis, grated
1 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Olive oil for frying
For Rice:
1 cup long-grain rice (white or brown)
2 cups water or vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
For Garlic Sauce:
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a dairy-free version
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare the Rice:
In a medium saucepan, combine rice, water (or broth), olive oil, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is fully cooked and fluffy. Set aside.
Make the Zucchini Balls:
Grate the zucchinis and place them in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the zucchini.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the zucchini, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Form the mixture into small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
Fry the Zucchini Balls:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the zucchini balls to the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd them. Cook the zucchini balls for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
Make the Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and golden.
Add the cream (or coconut cream) and thyme. Stir and cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble the Dish:
Serve the zucchini balls on a bed of rice and drizzle with the garlic sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Description: Zucchini Balls with Rice and Garlic Sauce is a delightful vegetarian meal, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. The combination of fresh zucchini and crispy breadcrumbs creates a satisfying texture, while the creamy garlic sauce adds a rich, indulgent flavor to the dish. The rice provides the perfect base for this hearty yet light dish, making it a complete and balanced meal that is both healthy and delicious.
Tips:
Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture from the zucchini as possible before forming the balls to ensure they hold together during cooking.
For a spicier version, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic sauce.
If you don’t have breadcrumbs, you can use rolled oats or almond meal for a gluten-free version.
You can bake the zucchini balls instead of frying them. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Variations:
Vegan Version: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use dairy-free Parmesan or nutritional yeast.
Add-ins: You can add chopped spinach, carrots, or bell peppers to the zucchini balls for added flavor and nutrition.
Sauce Variation: If you prefer a different sauce, you can serve the zucchini balls with a tomato-based marinara sauce or a tangy tzatziki sauce for a Mediterranean twist.
Corrections:
If your zucchini balls aren’t holding together, you can add a little extra breadcrumbs or even a tablespoon of flour to bind the mixture.
If the garlic sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a splash of vegetable broth or water.
Enjoy: Serve your zucchini balls with a generous helping of rice and the creamy garlic sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy this comforting, flavorful dish that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds!