Walnut Pesto Zucchini Roll-Ups
Delight in these elegant and flavorful Walnut Pesto Zucchini Roll-Ups, perfect for any occasion. Originally inspired by a Gourmet magazine recipe from January 1990, these finger-friendly snacks offer a delightful blend of fresh herbs, nuts, and cheese wrapped in tender zucchini ribbons. Ideal as a healthier appetizer or a stunning addition to your Super Bowl buffet, these roll-ups combine simplicity with sophistication to make any gathering truly special.
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
zucchini
3 (scrubbed)
parsley sprigs
2 cups (fresh)
garlic cloves
2
walnuts
2/3 cup (coarsely chopped)
Parmesan cheese
3 tablespoons (freshly grated)
Instructions
1
Using a mandoline or a sharp knife, carefully slice the zucchini lengthwise into 1/8-inch thick strips. Position the slices on a steamer rack over gently simmering water. Cover and steam for 3 to 5 minutes, until just tender yet still firm enough to roll. Allow to cool; they will become more pliable.
2
In a food processor, combine parsley, garlic, walnuts, 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth, forming a vibrant green puree.
3
Lay the cooled zucchini strips flat on a clean work surface. Spread a heaping teaspoon of the walnut pesto evenly across each slice.
4
Gently roll each zucchini strip into a spiral, starting from one end, and secure with a wooden toothpick.
5
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the zucchini spirals in a shallow baking dish. Sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese.
6
Bake in the upper third of the oven for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the rolls are thoroughly heated. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Walnut Pesto Zucchini Roll-Ups?
They are elegant and flavorful appetizers consisting of steamed zucchini ribbons filled with a fresh walnut and parsley pesto, rolled up and baked with Parmesan cheese.
How many ingredients are needed for this recipe?
This recipe requires 5 main ingredients: zucchini, parsley sprigs, garlic cloves, walnuts, and Parmesan cheese, plus a pinch of salt.
How should I slice the zucchini?
Use a mandoline or a sharp knife to slice the zucchini lengthwise into strips that are 1/8-inch thick.
Do I need to cook the zucchini before rolling?
Yes, you should steam the zucchini slices for 3 to 5 minutes until they are tender and pliable enough to roll.
What is in the walnut pesto filling?
The filling is a blend of fresh parsley, garlic, coarsely chopped walnuts, 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese, and salt.
How do I prepare the pesto?
Combine the parsley, garlic, walnuts, Parmesan, and salt in a food processor and blend until it forms a smooth, vibrant green puree.
What temperature should the oven be for baking?
The oven should be preheated to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius).
How long do the roll-ups need to bake?
Bake them in the upper third of the oven for about 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and they are heated through.
Can these be served cold?
Yes, these roll-ups can be served warm or at room temperature.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
How do I keep the zucchini rolls from unrolling?
Secure each rolled zucchini strip with a wooden toothpick before placing them in the baking dish.
Is this a healthy appetizer option?
Yes, it is described as a healthier appetizer featuring fresh vegetables, nuts, and herbs.
Where did this recipe originate?
This recipe was originally inspired by a Gourmet magazine recipe from January 1990.
What kind of cheese is used in this recipe?
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is used both in the pesto filling and as a topping.
Is the garlic prepared in a specific way?
The recipe calls for 2 garlic cloves, which are blended into the pesto until smooth.
What type of walnuts are used?
The recipe uses 2/3 cup of coarsely chopped walnuts.
How much pesto should I put on each strip?
Spread a heaping teaspoon of the walnut pesto evenly across each cooled zucchini slice.
Can I use dried parsley?
The recipe specifies 2 cups of fresh parsley sprigs to achieve the correct flavor and texture for the puree.
Should I scrub the zucchini before use?
Yes, the instructions recommend using 3 scrubbed zucchinis.
What kind of baking dish should be used?
A shallow baking dish is recommended for baking the zucchini spirals.
Is this recipe suitable for the Super Bowl?
Yes, it is noted as a stunning addition to a Super Bowl buffet or any party gathering.
Can I make these roll-ups without a food processor?
While a food processor is recommended for a smooth puree, you could finely mince the ingredients by hand for a more rustic texture.
Are these zucchini rolls gluten-free?
Based on the ingredients listed (zucchini, herbs, nuts, and cheese), this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
How much Parmesan goes on top of the rolls?
After using 2 tablespoons in the pesto, use the remaining 1 tablespoon of the freshly grated Parmesan to sprinkle over the rolls before baking.
What is the texture of the steamed zucchini?
The zucchini should be just tender yet still firm enough to hold its shape when rolled.
Can I use a different nut besides walnuts?
While walnuts are traditional for this pesto recipe, you could likely substitute with pine nuts or almonds for a different flavor profile.
Do I need to grease the baking dish?
The recipe does not specify greasing, but using a non-stick or lightly oiled shallow dish can help prevent sticking.
What color should the pesto be?
The pesto should be a vibrant green due to the fresh parsley sprigs.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this is a vegetable-based recipe suitable for vegetarians.
How long does the whole process take?
With a few minutes for steaming, blending, rolling, and 5 minutes for baking, the entire recipe can be completed quickly.