What You’ll Need:
- Zucchini flowers
- Mozzarella cheese
- Anchovy fillets
- Olive oil
- Freezer bags or containers
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini Flowers
Start by gently washing the zucchini flowers under cold water to remove any dirt or insects. Once clean, carefully remove the pistils from inside each flower, as they can be bitter. Pat the flowers dry using a paper towel.
Step 2: Stuff the Flowers
Take a piece of mozzarella and an anchovy fillet, and gently place them inside each zucchini flower. Be careful not to overstuff the flowers, as mozzarella tends to expand when frozen. Fold the petals back to seal the filling inside.
Step 3: Arrange for Freezing
Line a baking sheet or tray with parchment paper. Place the stuffed zucchini flowers on the tray, making sure they are not touching each other. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the flowers to prevent freezer burn and add flavor.
Step 4: Flash Freeze
Put the tray with the zucchini flowers in the freezer for about 1-2 hours or until they become firm. This flash freezing step will prevent the flowers from sticking together when stored in a container or bag.
Step 5: Store in Freezer Bags or Containers
Transfer the partially frozen zucchini flowers into freezer bags or containers. Be sure to label them with the date and contents for easy identification. Removing any excess air from the bags or using airtight containers will help prevent freezer burn.
Step 6: Final Freeze
Return the filled bags or containers to the freezer and store them at a consistent temperature below freezing. Ideally, use the zucchini flowers within 6-8 months to ensure optimal flavor and quality.
Step 7: Thaw and Serve
To enjoy the deliciousness of frozen zucchini flowers, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before using. Once thawed, you can use them in various dishes, such as pasta, risotto, or even as an appetizer on their own.
Now you can savor the taste of these delicate treats even during the cooler months! By freezing zucchini flowers with mozzarella and anchovies, you ensure that the joys of summer continue to delight your taste buds throughout the year.