Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dinner that will satisfy your taste buds? Look no further! This recipe for zucchini balls with rice and garlic sauce is a delightful option that is sure to please. With fragrant zucchini balls, perfectly cooked rice, and a flavorful garlic sauce, it’s a meal that combines a variety of textures and tastes.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 75 minutes

Ingredients

For the Zucchini Balls:

• 2 zucchini
• Salt
• 1 cup ricotta cheese (200g)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (80g)
• Herbs of Provence
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (60g)
• 1 egg

For the Rice:

• 1 cup rice (250g)
• 1 onion
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 carrot
• 2 cups water (500ml)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Black pepper
• Your favorite spices (optional)

For the Garlic Sauce:

• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (50g)
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise (50g)
• Garlic, minced
• Fresh dill, chopped

Instructions

Zucchini Balls

1. Grate the zucchini and sprinkle with salt. Let it sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
2. Squeeze out the excess water from the zucchini using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, ricotta cheese, breadcrumbs, Herbs of Provence, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Shape the mixture into small balls.
5. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
6. Place the zucchini balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, or until golden brown and firm.

Rice

1. Rinse the rice well under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and fry until translucent.
4. Add the grated carrot and continue to fry for 3-5 minutes.
5. Add the rinsed rice to the pot with the vegetables.
6. Pour in the water, add salt, black pepper, and any additional spices you prefer.
7. Cover the pot and cook over low heat for 25 minutes without opening the lid.

Garlic Sauce

1. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, and chopped dill. Mix well.

Serving

1. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork.
2. Serve the baked zucchini balls over a bed of rice, drizzled with the garlic sauce.
3. Garnish with additional fresh dill if desired.

Cooking Tips

• Make sure to squeeze out as much water as possible from the grated zucchini to ensure the balls hold their shape.
• Feel free to add other spices or herbs to the rice and zucchini mixture to suit your taste.

Nutritional Benefits

• Zucchini: Low in calories and rich in vitamins A and C.
• Ricotta Cheese: Provides protein and calcium.
• Carrots: High in beta-carotene and fiber.
• Greek Yogurt: A good source of protein and probiotics.

Dietary Information

• Vegetarian: Yes
• Gluten-Free: No (use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed)
• Dairy-Free: No (use dairy-free cheese substitutes if needed)

Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s an easy and flavorful meal that combines a variety of textures and tastes.
• Perfect for a healthy and satisfying dinner.
• The garlic sauce adds a creamy and tangy flavor that complements the zucchini balls perfectly.

Enjoy the deliciousness and simplicity of this dish with your loved ones!