Zucchini and Almond Cream – a delightful and unique condiment, perfect for dressing pasta or spreading on crostini. This creamy creation requires minimal effort, as it is prepared raw, without the need for cooking or heat. As the summer season fades away and autumn approaches, let's savor the colorful flavors a little longer with this green and fresh dish. So, let's embark on the journey of creating this delectable cream and decide how we want to enjoy it later.
Zucchini and Almond Cream: A Marriage of Flavors
Combining vegetables and dried fruits comes together in this exquisite blend, creating a harmonious and tasty combination that requires no cooking.
Ingredients:
- 250g zucchini
- 30g peeled almonds
- olive oil
- salt
- 15g basil
- 60g grated cheese
Procedure:
1. Take the zucchini and thoroughly wash them, cutting off the ends. Grate them using a grater with large holes.
2. Place the grated zucchini in a colander and place a weight on top to remove excess liquid. This step is crucial to prevent the cream from becoming too watery.
3. Set aside the grated cheese.
4. Take the basil and tear it into pieces in a measuring cup. Add the almonds to the basil after properly washing and drying them.
5. In a blender, combine the strained zucchini (let them drain for at least 30 minutes), a drizzle of olive oil, grated cheese, and salt. Blend everything until smooth.
6. Add a little more olive oil and continue blending until the desired consistency is achieved.
And voila! You have created the unique and light zucchini and almond cream. Now, let's explore the various ways we can enjoy this delicious creation.
How to Use Zucchini and Almond Cream:
1. Spreading on Crostini:
Spread a generous amount of the zucchini and almond cream on toasted slices of bread or crostini. The creamy texture and delicate flavors will elevate your appetizers to a whole new level.
2. Dressing Pasta:
Cook your favorite pasta according to the instructions, and before draining it, save a little pasta water. In a separate pan, heat a spoonful of olive oil and add the zucchini and almond cream. Stir until heated through, then add the cooked pasta and a splash of the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until well-coated and serve hot. The creaminess of the zucchini cream combined with the al dente pasta creates a mouthwatering dish that is sure to impress.
3. As a Dip:
Fill a bowl with zucchini and almond cream and serve it alongside an assortment of fresh vegetables, crackers, or breadsticks. This creamy dip will add a burst of flavor to any appetizer platter.
4. Salad Dressing:
Thin the zucchini and almond cream with a little olive oil and vinegar of your choice to create a light and refreshing salad dressing. Toss it with your favorite greens, vegetables, and toppings for a healthy and flavorful salad.
5. Sandwich Spread:
Slather the zucchini and almond cream onto your favorite sandwich bread and layer it with fresh vegetables, cheese, and protein of your choice. The creamy and flavorful spread will take your sandwiches to a whole new level.
There are endless possibilities for enjoying this versatile and delicious zucchini and almond cream. Experiment with various ingredients, spices, and presentations to create your own unique twist. Whether it's a quick and easy appetizer or a satisfying pasta dish, this creamy creation is sure to impress your taste buds. So, go ahead and indulge in the vibrant flavors of the season.
I am Michael, a passionate food enthusiast and part of The Sydney News team. With a culinary background, I am dedicated to sharing simple and quick recipes for both beginners and advanced cooks. One time, while writing a mouthwatering recipe, I accidentally spilled flour all over my laptop, resulting in a comical situation that had us all laughing in the office.