Zucchini Roll Ups with Harissa, Goat Cheese, Lime, and Mint
Zucchini roll ups filled with a spicy harissa goat cheese mixture infused with fresh lime and mint leaves. A fun bite-sized appetizer for summer entertaining!
Ingredients
Zucchini Bites:
- 1 lb (16 oz) zucchini, preferably long and at least an inch in diameter sliced into ⅛- inch thick lengths, roughly 2 zucchini
- extra virgin olive oil
- 8 ounces soft goat cheese room temperature
- 2 teaspoons harissa paste
- 2 tablespoon finely minced fresh mint leaves
- 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh lime zest
- ½ teaspoon fresh lime juice
- kosher salt
- freshly ground black pepper
Optional Vinaigrette Topping:
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chiffonade of mint leaves
- 2 teaspoons fresh lime juice
- ¼ teaspoon harissa paste
- kosher salt
- freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Using a mandolin, carefully slice the zucchini lengthwise into ⅛-inch thick slices. Set the slices aside on a large rimmed baking sheet and lightly sprinkle on both sides with salt.
- In medium bowl, combine the room temperature goat cheese, harissa paste, fresh mint, olive oil, lime zest and juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Blot the zucchini slices to remove any excess moisture, and lightly brush or drizzle with extra virgin olive. Use your hands to carefully toss the zucchini, so each slice is lightly covered.
- Preheat a grill pan over medium heat. Add slices in batches, allowing them to sear on each side without overcrowding the pan. Carefully remove and set aside on a large plate or clean baking sheet (once the zucchini is grilled, it will be much more delicate, so be careful not to manhandle them too much.).
- Assemble: One at time, lay the zucchini slices on a work surface and using a butter knife or small offset spatula, spread a very thin layer of the goat cheese mixture evenly onto each slice (not too much, as you don’t want to overpower the flavor of the zucchini). Starting with one end, roll into smal, tight rolls and set aside on a plate. Repeat with remaining zucchini slices.
- Prepare the Vinaigrette, If Using: Whisk together the viniagrette ingredients in a small bowl until a broken emulsion forms.
- Drizzle a serving platter lightly with the vinaigrette (optional), top with the zucchini rolls, and serve at room temperature.
Tips for Success:
- If necessary, the rolls can be made several hours ahead of time and kept in the fridge covered with plastic wrap. They are best served at room temperature.
- The addition of fresh mint and lime juice helps brighten up the flavors and pairs extremely well with the spicy harissa and tangy goat cheese. Perfect summer entertaining food, if you ask me.
Serving: 1serving, Calories: 104kcal, Carbohydrates: 2g, Protein: 5g, Fat: 9g, Saturated Fat: 4g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g, Cholesterol: 10mg, Sodium: 239mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 1g