Squash blossoms are one of the most sought after seasonal ingredients of summer, appearing for only a short window at farmers markets and home gardens. Lightly fried and stuffed with a blend of ricotta, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheese, these crispy squash blossoms make an elegant appetizer for summer entertaining, wine tasting parties, or al fresco dinners.
The rich, creamy cheese filling is balanced by a crisp golden crust and served alongside tomato sauce for dipping. Pair them with our Gold Shimmer Out of Office California Sparkling Brut, whose refreshing bubbles, tropical aromas, and notes of green apple and pear provide a bright contrast to the savory cheese and fried texture.
Gruyère Stuffed Squash Blossoms
Makes: 15 blossoms
Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
Stuffed Blossoms
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4 cups canola oil
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15 squash blossoms
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1 cup ricotta cheese
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½ cup grated Gruyère cheese
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⅓ cup Parmesan cheese
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon ground pepper
Breading Process
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2 eggs
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⅓ cup breadcrumbs
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¼ cup Parmesan cheese
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon ground pepper
Instructions
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Heat canola oil in a pot over medium high heat until it reaches 375°F, using a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature.
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Carefully peel open the flower petals and remove the stamen from the center of each blossom using kitchen shears. Lightly rinse the blossoms and gently pat dry with paper towels.
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In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, Gruyère, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and evenly incorporated.
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Transfer the filling to a piping bag and cut off the tip. Pipe approximately 3 tablespoons of filling into each blossom, leaving about 1 inch at the top. Twist the petals to seal.
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Whisk the eggs in one bowl. In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
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Holding each blossom by the stem, dip into the egg mixture, then coat evenly in the breadcrumb mixture.
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Using metal tongs, carefully place the blossoms into the hot oil. Fry for 1 minute, flip, and cook for 1 additional minute until golden brown.
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Transfer to a paper towel lined plate or wire rack to cool slightly.
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Serve warm with your favorite tomato sauce for dipping.
Wine Pairing: Gold Shimmer Out of Office California Sparkling Brut
The Gold Shimmer Out of Office California Sparkling Brut is a natural match for crispy fried appetizers. Refreshing bubbles cleanse the palate between bites, while tropical aromas, green apple, and pear complement the nutty Gruyère and creamy ricotta filling. The bright acidity also enhances the tomato sauce, making this sparkling wine an effortless pairing for summer gatherings.
