Zucchini Blossoms

Handle very gently. Store in a single layer in an airtight container lined with a damp paper towel. Best used the day they are picked.

Gently remove the stamen from inside the blossom before cooking.

These are often stuffed with ricotta cheese and herbs, then lightly fried or baked.

They can be added to pasta dishes, frittatas, or used as a delicate garnish.

Blossoms are best cooked quickly to retain their texture.

Ricotta cheese

Herbs (basil, chives, mint)

Garlic

Lemon zest

Parmesan cheese

Light batters for frying

Overcrowding them in the pan when frying, which leads to steaming instead of crisping.

Not cleaning them gently, which can bruise or tear the delicate petals.

Forgetting to remove the pistil or stamen, which can be bitter.