Zucchini Flowers

Blossoms of the zucchini plant, known as zucchini flowers, are delicate edible treats, prized as a culinary delicacy. Light orange to yellow in colour, they have a tender texture and a mildly sweet, herbal flavour. Most commonly, these flowers are stuffed with ricotta, herbs or cheese and then fried in a crispy batter. Popular as a garnish for soups, risottos and pasta dishes, they have a long tradition in Mediterranean cuisine, particularly in Italian and Greek gastronomy. Harvested early in the morning while fully open, they are best used as soon as possible after picking, as they wilt very quickly.