Il Cucinologo
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Zucchini Involtini with Ragù

17/11/2023

I can guide you in preparing zucchini involtini with ragù, a dish that combines the lightness of zucchini with the richness of a good meat sauce. Here is the recipe:

Ingredients

  • 3-4 large zucchini
  • 300 g ground meat (beef, pork, or a mix of the two)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 500 ml tomato passata
  • 100 ml red wine
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Grated Parmesan
  • Fresh basil (optional)
  • Oil for frying

Preparation

  1. Ragù preparation: In a large pan, sauté the onion and garlic with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil until golden. Add the ground meat and brown it well. Deglaze with red wine and let the alcohol evaporate. Stir in the tomato passata, salt and pepper, and simmer over low heat for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally. If desired, add fresh basil toward the end of cooking.

  2. Zucchini preparation: Meanwhile, wash the zucchini and slice them thinly lengthwise using a mandoline or sharp knife. Heat a drizzle of oil in a pan and grill the zucchini slices on both sides until lightly golden. Place them on paper towels to remove excess oil.

  3. Assembling the involtini: Take a zucchini slice, place a spoonful of ragù inside, then roll it up to form the involtino and secure with a toothpick if needed.

  4. Final cooking: Arrange the involtini in a baking dish, sprinkle with grated Parmesan, and bake at 180 °C for about 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is nicely golden.

  5. Finishing: Serve the involtini hot, garnished if desired with fresh basil leaves for a touch of color and freshness.

This dish can be customized in many ways. For example, you can add mozzarella inside the involtini for a stretchier version. It’s a delicious way to enjoy zucchini with a touch of traditional Italian cooking.

Trivia

Involtini are a versatile format in Italian cuisine and can be prepared with many filling variations, such as meat, cheeses, and vegetables. Zucchini involtini are an excellent way to incorporate more vegetables into the diet and can be served as a main course or a rich, flavorful side dish.