Looking for an appetizer that’s effortlessly elegant and bursting with unique flavor? You’ve found it. These Grilled Zucchini Roll-Ups are a true revelation. The smoky char of the zucchini perfectly complements the creamy, tangy goat cheese, while a surprising twist of mint and dill elevates the entire dish from simple to sophisticated. They’re incredibly simple to make, naturally low-carb, and guaranteed to disappear from the plate in minutes. This is one of those recipes you have to taste to believe!
Ingredients
• 1 large zucchini
• 6 oz / 170g soft goat’s cheese
• 1 tbsp dried mint
• 1 tsp dried dill
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Olive oil, for brushing
Instructions
1. Directions
2. Prep & Grill Zucchini: Trim the ends of the zucchini. Using a mandoline or sharp knife, slice it lengthwise into ⅛-inch (3mm) thick ribbons. Brush both sides with oil and grill on a hot grill pan for 1-2 minutes per side, until tender and lightly charred. Set aside to cool.
3. Mix the Filling: In a small bowl, combine the soft goat’s cheese, dried mint, and dried dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste and mix until smooth.
4. Assemble the Rolls: Place a spoonful of the goat cheese mixture at one end of a grilled zucchini ribbon. Roll it up snugly and secure with a toothpick. Repeat for all slices and serve.
Nutritional Information
• Per serving (serves 6)
• Calories: 188
• Fat: 14g
• Net Carbs: 4g
• Protein: 15g
Pro Tips
• For perfectly uniform, thin zucchini slices, a mandoline slicer is your best friend. If you don’t have one, use a very sharp knife and a steady hand.
• If you have fresh mint and dill, use them! You’ll need about 1 tablespoon of each, finely chopped, for a brighter, more vibrant flavor.
• Don’t overcook the zucchini. Grill it just until it’s pliable and has grill marks. If it gets too soft, it will be difficult to roll and may fall apart.
• You can grill the zucchini and prepare the cheese filling a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator and assemble just before serving.
FAQ
Q: Can I make these zucchini roll-ups without a grill
A: Yes, if you don’t have a grill or grill pan, you can roast the zucchini ribbons in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 5-7 minutes or pan-sear them in a skillet until they are tender and pliable enough to roll.
Q: What can I substitute for goat cheese
A: If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, you can use other soft cheeses like feta (mixed with a little cream cheese for a smoother texture), Boursin, or a well-seasoned ricotta cheese as a delicious alternative.
Q: How do I get thin, even zucchini slices without a mandoline
A: While a mandoline is best for uniform slices, you can achieve good results with a very sharp knife and a steady hand. Alternatively, a wide vegetable peeler can be used to create thin ribbons perfect for rolling.
Q: Can I prepare this appetizer in advance
A: Absolutely. To save time, you can grill the zucchini slices and mix the cheese filling up to a day ahead. Store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator and simply assemble the rolls just before serving for the best results.
