These Zucchini & Pistachio Goat Cheese Rolls are a colorful and festive appetizer, featuring delicate zucchini slices filled with creamy goat cheese, crunchy pistachios, and fresh herbs, all topped with a sweet-tart pomegranate glaze. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a refreshing starter, this dish is as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 2 large zucchinis, thinly sliced lengthwise
- 1 cup goat cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup pistachios, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/4 cup pomegranate molasses or glaze (for drizzling)
- Olive oil, for brushing
Instructions
1. Prepare the Zucchini
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the zucchini slices with olive oil and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Place the slices on a baking sheet and roast for 5–7 minutes, or until they are just tender.
2. Make the Filling
In a bowl, combine the goat cheese, chopped pistachios, basil, and mint. Season with salt and pepper to taste and mix well until fully combined.
3. Assemble the Rolls
Place a spoonful of the goat cheese mixture onto each zucchini slice. Roll up the slices tightly and arrange them on a serving platter.
4. Drizzle and Garnish
Drizzle the pomegranate molasses over the rolls, then sprinkle with pomegranate seeds and additional chopped pistachios for a festive garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Helpful Tips
1. Slice the Zucchini Thinly
For best results, use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife to create thin, even slices of zucchini. This makes the rolls easier to handle and ensures even cooking.
2. Don’t Overcook the Zucchini
Roast the zucchini only until it’s just tender. Overcooking can make the slices too soft, making them prone to breaking when rolling.
3. Soften the Goat Cheese
Allow the goat cheese to soften at room temperature before mixing it. This makes it much easier to combine with the pistachios and herbs, and easier to spread onto the zucchini.
4. Prepare Ahead
You can assemble the zucchini rolls a few hours in advance. Just add the pomegranate glaze and seeds right before serving to maintain their freshness and vibrant color.
Substitutions and Variations
1. Cheese Options
- Feta offers a saltier bite, while ricotta gives a milder, creamier filling. Both are excellent alternatives to goat cheese.
2. Nuts
- You can substitute pistachios with walnuts, almonds, or pine nuts for a different texture and flavor.
3. Herbs
- Experiment with thyme, chives, or parsley in place of basil and mint for a new flavor profile.
4. Zucchini Alternatives
- Thinly sliced eggplant or cucumber (uncooked) can also be used in place of zucchini for a different base that still rolls up nicely.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rolls a few hours in advance. Assemble them and refrigerate, but add the pomegranate glaze and seeds right before serving to ensure they stay fresh.
2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feta provides a tangy flavor, while ricotta is creamier and milder. Both are great alternatives to goat cheese.
3. How can I make this recipe vegan?
For a vegan version, substitute the goat cheese with a plant-based cheese or cashew cream. Also, ensure that the pomegranate glaze is vegan-friendly, swapping out any honey-based glaze for agave syrup or a balsamic reduction.
4. What’s the best way to slice the zucchini?
A mandoline slicer is ideal for thin, even slices. If you don’t have one, use a sharp knife and slice the zucchini as thinly as possible to ensure they roll up neatly.
Conclusion
These Zucchini & Pistachio Goat Cheese Rolls with Pomegranate Glaze are the perfect appetizer for any festive occasion. The combination of fresh zucchini, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy pistachios, topped with a sweet-tart pomegranate glaze, creates a delightful balance of textures and flavors. With their vibrant colors and elegant presentation, these rolls are sure to impress your guests and become a holiday favorite!