Goat Cheese Grilled Zucchini Rolls

Try a simple, healthy Mediterranean-inspired dish with goat cheese, tomatoes, and olives wrapped in zucchini. These Goat Cheese Grilled Zucchini Rolls are perfect for appetizers, light lunches, or as a party snack. They offer a unique blend of flavors and textures that will transport you to distant shores, making them a delightful addition to any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of preparation and cooking time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
• Flavorful Combination: The creamy goat cheese pairs beautifully with the tangy dried tomatoes and salty olives, creating a mouthwatering experience.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and wholesome ingredients, these rolls are not just delicious but also nutritious.
• Versatile Dish: Serve them as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light main course. They can easily be adapted to suit different palates.
• Mediterranean Twist: Enjoy the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean in your own kitchen with these flavorful rolls.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing Goat Cheese Grilled Zucchini Rolls smoother and more enjoyable. Gather these essential items to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Vegetable peeler
• Mixing bowl
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: This tool is crucial for achieving those beautiful grill marks while enhancing the flavor of the zucchini.
• Vegetable peeler: A peeler helps create thin slices of zucchini that are perfect for rolling without breaking.
• Mixing bowl: Use this to combine your ingredients easily before assembling the rolls.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for your vegetables and fillings.

Ingredients

For the Zucchini Rolls

• 2 zucchinis
• 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil + 1 cup for soaking dried tomatoes
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Herbes de Provence

For the Filling

• 6 1/2 ounces goat cheese
• ⅓ cup dried tomato, previously soaked in olive oil
• ⅓ cup pitted green olives

How to Make Goat Cheese Grilled Zucchini Rolls

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

1. Slice the zucchinis lengthwise into thin strips using a vegetable peeler or mandoline. Aim for about 1/8-inch thickness.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine goat cheese with Herbes de Provence, sea salt, and black pepper until smooth.

Step 2: Assemble the Rolls

1. Lay out each zucchini strip flat on a clean surface.
2. Spread about a tablespoon of the goat cheese mixture onto each zucchini slice.
3. Add a few pieces of soaked dried tomatoes and green olives on top of the cheese.
4. Carefully roll up each zucchini slice tightly.

Step 3: Grill the Rolls

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat.
2. Brush each roll lightly with extra virgin olive oil.
3. Place the rolls on the grill and cook for about 5 minutes on each side until they are tender and have nice grill marks.

Enjoy your flavorful Goat Cheese Grilled Zucchini Rolls as an appetizer or light meal!

How to Serve Goat Cheese Grilled Zucchini Rolls

Goat Cheese Grilled Zucchini Rolls are a delightful appetizer or light meal that can be served in various ways. Their Mediterranean flavors make them versatile for any occasion.

As a Starter

• Accompany with Dip: Serve alongside a tangy yogurt dip or hummus for added flavor.
• Pair with Wine: A crisp white wine complements the dish beautifully, enhancing the goat cheese’s creaminess.

In a Salad

• Tossed Greens: Place the zucchini rolls on a bed of mixed greens drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing touch.
• Mediterranean Bowl: Add the rolls to a grain bowl with quinoa, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers.

For Lunch

• Sandwich Alternative: Use the rolls as a filling in a whole grain wrap with arugula and avocado.
• Savory Platter: Serve on a platter with crackers, olives, and nuts for a quick lunch option.

As an Entree

• With Grains: Pair with couscous or rice pilaf for a filling meal option.
• Vegetable Medley: Create a colorful medley of grilled vegetables to serve alongside these rolls.

How to Perfect Goat Cheese Grilled Zucchini Rolls

Crafting perfect Goat Cheese Grilled Zucchini Rolls is effortless when you follow some simple tips. Here are some ways to elevate your dish.

• Choose Fresh Zucchini: Select firm, unblemished zucchinis for better texture and flavor.
• Pre-soak Tomatoes: Soaking dried tomatoes in olive oil enhances their flavor and softness.
• Grill Carefully: Avoid overcooking the zucchini; they should be tender yet firm enough to hold the filling.
• Use Quality Goat Cheese: Opt for creamy goat cheese for the best taste and spreadability.
• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on salt and herbs; they enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Best Side Dishes for Goat Cheese Grilled Zucchini Rolls

Complement your Goat Cheese Grilled Zucchini Rolls with delicious side dishes that enhance their Mediterranean flair. Here’s a list of great options:

1. Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, feta cheese, and olives dressed in olive oil.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Season seasonal vegetables like bell peppers and eggplants, then roast until caramelized.
3. Quinoa Tabbouleh: A light salad made with quinoa, parsley, mint, tomatoes, and lemon juice adds freshness.
4. Chickpea Salad: Combine chickpeas with diced red onion, cucumber, and lemon dressing for protein-packed goodness.
5. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread makes an excellent accompaniment to soak up any sauces or dips served alongside.
6. Pesto Pasta: Toss pasta with fresh basil pesto for a flavorful side that pairs well with zucchini rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Goat Cheese Grilled Zucchini Rolls, it’s easy to make some common errors that can affect your dish. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring the salt: Not seasoning your zucchini before grilling can lead to bland rolls. Always sprinkle with sea salt for enhanced flavor.
• Overcooking the zucchini: Grilling for too long can make the zucchini soggy. Aim for just a few minutes on each side to keep them firm.
• Skipping the soaking step: Dried tomatoes should be soaked in olive oil. This adds moisture and flavor, making your rolls more delicious.
• Using low-quality cheese: Opt for good-quality goat cheese. It’s crucial for achieving that creamy texture and rich taste in your rolls.
• Not adjusting the herbs: Herbes de Provence can vary in strength. Adjust the amount based on your preference to avoid overpowering the dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store Goat Cheese Grilled Zucchini Rolls in an airtight container.
• item They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Goat Cheese Grilled Zucchini Rolls

• item You can freeze these rolls for up to 1 month.
• item Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating Goat Cheese Grilled Zucchini Rolls

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place rolls on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. Check frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Goat Cheese Grilled Zucchini Rolls:

How do I prepare zucchini for grilling?

To prepare zucchini, slice it lengthwise into thin strips. This helps create rolls that are easy to grill and fold.

Can I use other cheeses instead of goat cheese?

Yes! You can use feta or ricotta as alternatives, but remember they will change the flavor profile of your rolls.

Are Goat Cheese Grilled Zucchini Rolls suitable for vegetarian diets?

Absolutely! These rolls are vegetarian-friendly and packed with flavors from fresh ingredients.

What can I serve with Goat Cheese Grilled Zucchini Rolls?

They pair well with a light salad or as an appetizer at parties. Consider adding a balsamic glaze drizzle on top!

Final Thoughts

Goat Cheese Grilled Zucchini Rolls are a delightful Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Their fresh flavors and creamy texture make them an appealing choice, whether as an appetizer or a light meal. Feel free to customize these rolls by adding different fillings like bell peppers or herbs according to your taste!

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