Ingredients

Other Ingredients

Olive oil
Sheets of puff pastry
150 grams (5.3 ounces) cheese, grated
100 grams (3.5 ounces) ham, chopped
1 egg yolk
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Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Zucchini

First, take the two small zucchinis and grate them using a grater. Heat some olive oil in a pan over medium heat.

Add the grated zucchini to the pan and sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes. This will help eliminate excess moisture from the zucchini.

Step 2

Prepare the Puff Pastry

While the zucchini cools, gently roll out the puff pastry on a clean surface. Ensure it’s not too thin.

Next, cut the sides of the pastry into strips, as seen in the video. This will create the twists later.

Step 3

Assemble the Twists

In the center of the pastry, layer a mixture of your grated cheese, chopped ham, and the cooled zucchini. Make sure to spread them evenly for balanced flavor in each bite.

Once assembled, proceed to twist the strips over the filling to form a braid, as demonstrated in the video.

Step 4

Finish and Bake

Brush the braids with beaten egg yolk to give them a beautiful golden color as they bake. This step is essential for that enticing finish.

Place the prepared twists in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) and bake for about 30 to 40 minutes. Keep an eye on them to ensure they become well browned.

Step 5

Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the twists from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These delicious zucchini twists are perfect as an appetizer or a snack. Enjoy your creation!

Servings

Serving this cheesy zucchini braid is all about creativity! 🌼 You can slice it into beautiful pieces and serve it warm as an appetizer or as a side dish to a refreshing salad. Pair it with a delicious dipping sauce – think tangy marinara or creamy ranch – to take it to the next level! For a casual get-together, place it on a vibrant platter. Add some fresh herbs as a garnish to make it pop! 🌿

Feel like treating yourself? Turn it into a delightful brunch option! 🍽️ Serve alongside some eggs and fresh fruit for a lovely balance of flavors. Remember, it’s not just about eating; it’s about creating experiences with every bite! 😋

Equipment

Variations

If you're looking for gluten-free options, simply replace the store-bought puff pastry with a gluten-free pastry dough recipe. It's so easy! 🥳 And for those who are vegan, try using dairy-free cheese and omit the egg wash. You can achieve a golden finish by brushing it with a little olive oil. Your guests will love these variations just as much! 🌱

Faq

  • What if I don't have puff pastry?

    You can use homemade dough or even phyllo dough as an alternative.

  • Can I add different fillings?

    Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other fillings like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes.

  • How can I tell when it's done baking?

    Look for a golden-brown color and a puffed appearance. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.

  • Can I prepare this in advance?

    Yes! You can assemble it ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking, then just pop it in the oven when you’re ready.

  • What's the best way to store leftovers?

    Store them in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat in the oven for the best texture.

  • Can I freeze this dish?

    Yes! Assemble it, freeze it before baking, and bake from frozen, adding extra time in the oven.

Nutrition facts

Delicious Zucchini Twists with Cheese and Ham
Recipe Yield:Serves 4
Calories:Approximately 250 to 350 calories per serving
Calories (Min - Max):250 - 350
Total Fat:15g
Saturated Fat:5g
Protein:12g
Total Carbohydrate:30g
Total Sugars:2g