Poached Squash Blossoms Stuffed with Herbed Ricotta Recipe
Poached Squash Blossoms Stuffed with Herbed Ricotta
A golden temptation
Ahh, the eye-catching squash blossom, such a stunning golden bloom. Hard to find in the markets because of their delicate nature, however, if you are lucky enough to either have access to a squash patch or a good relationship with your local farmer, you might be able to snag some of these beauties.
Ingredients
1 cup fresh ricotta
1/4 cup parmesan | grated
1/2 teaspoon lemon zest | grated
2 tablespoons chives | finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon thyme | finely chopped
salt
pepper
tiny pinch of cayenne | adjust to your preference
12 squash blossoms
3 tablespoons butter
1 cup chicken broth
parsley or basil | finely chopped
Instructions
Step 1
In a bowl, add the ricotta, parmesan, lemon zest, chives, thyme, salt and pepper (to taste), and cayenne. Stir until well combined.
Step 2
Carefully peel open the petals of the squash blossoms and place a heaping tablespoon of the ricotta filling inside. Close the blossom back up and flatten it slightly.
Step 3
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Arrange the blossoms in one flat layer in the pan. Sprinkle lightly with salt and add your broth. Place the lid on your skillet and simmer gently for 4-5 minutes.
Step 4
Lift the blossoms from the pan with a spatula and arrange them on your serving dish. Spoon some buttery juices over the top of the blossoms and garnish with parsley or basil. Serve immediately. Enjoy.
A note about squash blossoms
Due to the fact that the squash blossom is so delicate, the best time to pick these beauties is first thing in the morning before the flower begins to hold the sun's heat, which causes it is wilt much faster. Squash blossoms typically open during the day and close at night, and sometimes, if bees are late to getting home, they will take refuge in these flowers overnight. So, just be aware that if your blossoms are picked first thing in the morning before they open… when you go to use your blossoms later you might find an unexpected guest. I just take the blossom outside and encourage the bee on out and along its way.