Zucchini Balls with Rice and Garlic Sauce

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Introduction

Zucchini Balls with Rice and Garlic Sauce is a light yet flavorful vegetarian dish that combines shredded zucchini, rice, and fresh herbs to create delicious, tender veggie balls. Baked or pan-fried to perfection, these zucchini balls are served with a creamy garlic sauce that complements their subtle sweetness and adds a rich, tangy element to the dish. This recipe is perfect as an appetizer, a main dish, or a snack, and it’s a great way to use up extra zucchini from the garden or farmers market!

Ingredients Quantity

For the Zucchini Balls

  • Zucchini: 2 large, grated (about 3 cups)
  • Cooked rice: 1 cup (white or brown)
  • Eggs: 2 large
  • Onion: 1 small, finely chopped
  • Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
  • Breadcrumbs: ½ cup (adjust for texture)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese: ⅓ cup
  • Fresh dill: 2 tablespoons, chopped
  • Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon
  • Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
  • Paprika: ½ teaspoon
  • Olive oil: 2 tablespoons (for frying, if desired)

For the Garlic Sauce

  • Greek yogurt: 1 cup
  • Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
  • Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons
  • Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
  • Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
  • Salt: ½ teaspoon
  • Black pepper: ¼ teaspoon

Optional Ingredients

  • Crumbled feta cheese: ¼ cup (for added creaminess and flavor in the zucchini balls)
  • Chopped mint: 1 tablespoon (for a fresh twist)
  • Red pepper flakes: ¼ teaspoon (for a bit of heat)
  • Chopped sun-dried tomatoes: ¼ cup (for added tanginess)
  • Tahini or sour cream: 2 tablespoons (to add to the garlic sauce for extra creaminess)

Instructions

Prepare the Zucchini Balls

  1. Grate and Drain the Zucchini: Place the grated zucchini in a colander and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to release excess moisture. Squeeze out the water using your hands or a clean kitchen towel until the zucchini is dry.
  2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the drained zucchini, cooked rice, eggs, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, dill, parsley, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated and the mixture holds together when pressed.
  3. Adjust Consistency: If the mixture is too wet, add more breadcrumbs a tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
  4. Shape the Balls: Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about 1 ½ inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Cooking Methods

Option 1: Baking

  1. Bake the Balls: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly brush or spray the zucchini balls with olive oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway, until they are golden brown and firm.

Option 2: Pan-Frying

  1. Pan-Fry the Balls: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the zucchini balls in batches, turning them frequently until all sides are golden brown and crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Prepare the Garlic Sauce

  1. Make the Garlic Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve

  1. Serve the Zucchini Balls: Arrange the zucchini balls on a serving platter and drizzle with garlic sauce. Garnish with additional chopped herbs or a sprinkle of paprika if desired. Serve warm with extra garlic sauce on the side for dipping.

Tips for Success

  • Drain the Zucchini Well: Properly draining and squeezing out the moisture from the zucchini is crucial to prevent the mixture from becoming too watery and falling apart.
  • Consistency is Key: The mixture should hold together easily when shaped. If it feels too loose, add more breadcrumbs or rice; if it’s too dry, add a small beaten egg.
  • Bake or Fry?: For a healthier option, bake the zucchini balls. For a crispier texture, pan-fry them in olive oil.
  • Flavor Enhancements: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices according to your taste. Adding a touch of cumin or coriander can add a Middle Eastern flair.

Recommendations

  • Serving Suggestions: Serve the zucchini balls with a side of rice, a green salad, or stuffed in pita bread with extra garlic sauce.
  • Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover zucchini balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or a skillet before serving.
  • Freezing: These zucchini balls freeze well! Arrange the uncooked balls on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Bake or fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Enjoy these light and delicious Zucchini Balls with Rice and Garlic Sauce—a healthy and satisfying vegetarian dish that’s perfect for any occasion!

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