Zucchini Cordon Bleu

The Zucchini Cordon Bleu is a vegetarian variant of the classic dish of the same name that usually involves meat. In this version, zucchini acts as a wrapper for the cheese and ham. Here’s the recipe:

Ingredients

• 2 large zucchini.
• 200 g of sliced cheese (such as Emmental or Fontina).
• 100 g of sliced cooked ham.
• Flour as needed.
• 2 eggs.
• Breadcrumbs as needed.
• Salt and pepper as needed.
• Oil for frying.

Preparation

1. Start by washing and slicing the zucchini lengthwise into thin slices, about 3-4 mm thick. You can use a mandoline to get even slices.
2. Lightly heat the zucchini slices on a grill or in a non-stick pan to soften them, making them more malleable.
3. Take a slice of zucchini, lay a slice of cheese and one of cooked ham on it, then cover with another slice of zucchini.
4. Press the edges of the zucchini well to seal them and form the “cordon bleu”.
5. Dip each cordon bleu first in flour, then in beaten egg, and finally in breadcrumbs, ensuring the breading adheres well.
6. Heat the oil in a pan and when it’s hot, fry the zucchini cordon bleu until golden on both sides.
7. Drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil and serve hot.

You can also add finely chopped aromatic herbs like thyme or rosemary to the breadcrumbs for a more aromatic flavor. Serve these cordon bleu with a fresh salad or a sauce of your choice.

Curiosity

Although the term “Cordon Bleu” originally refers to a high-end French dish, this term is now commonly used to describe dishes in which chicken or meat are stuffed with cheese and ham, then breaded and fried or baked. The vegetarian variation with zucchini is an excellent alternative for those who want a lighter and meatless version.