Fried Zucchini Flowers Recipe: Crispy Fiori di Zucca Fritti
Light, crispy, and golden, Fried Zucchini Flowers (Fiori di Zucca Fritti) are a classic Italian appetizer perfect for summer dining.
Bring a taste of Italy to your kitchen with Fiori di Zucca Fritti, or Fried Zucchini Flowers. This classic Italian appetizer transforms delicate zucchini blossoms into a crispy, golden delight using a light batter made with sparkling water and flour. The result is a perfectly airy and crunchy texture that melts in your mouth, balanced with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Often served alongside a chilled glass of prosecco, fried zucchini flowers are the epitome of simple yet elegant Italian cuisine. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating summer’s harvest, or simply indulging in seasonal flavors, this recipe is sure to impress.
Crispy, light, and full of flavor, Fried Zucchini Flowers (Fiori di Zucca Fritti) are a must-try Italian delicacy. This simple yet elegant recipe highlights the beauty of seasonal ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. Perfect as an appetizer or a special treat, these golden blossoms will transport you straight to a summer evening in Italy. Pair them with a glass of prosecco or your favorite white wine for the ultimate dining experience.
Fried Zucchini Flowers Recipe: Crispy Fiori di Zucca Fritti
Ingredients:
12 fresh zucchini flowers, picked the day you use them
12 fluid ounces cold Pellegrino (or any cold sparkling water)
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (preferably OO flour)
Fine sea salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Sunflower oil (enough for frying)
Flaky sea salt (for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini Flowers
Carefully inspect each zucchini flower for dirt or insects. Gently open the blossoms and check inside, but do not wash them. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a medium-sized bowl, pour the cold sparkling water. Gradually whisk in the flour, 1/3 cup at a time, to avoid losing the bubbles. The batter should be thin, resembling pancake batter.
Season with fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a well-seasoned cast iron skillet or heavy pan, heat about 1 inch of sunflower oil over medium-high heat.
Step 4: Fry the Zucchini Flowers
Line a tray with paper towels. Dip each zucchini flower into the batter, ensuring they’re fully coated, then allow excess batter to drip off.
Carefully place the coated flowers into the hot oil, frying 6 at a time. Fry until golden brown on one side, then turn with tongs to cook the other side.
Remove to the paper towel-lined tray to drain any excess oil. Repeat with the remaining 6 blossoms.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer the fried zucchini flowers to a serving plate while still hot. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and serve immediately with a chilled glass of prosecco.