Description
Crispy parmesan veggie fricos from an Italian-inspired muffin pan method deliver golden cheesy crunch with minimal effort. Guests will devour these elegant appetizers that combine simple ingredients into a delightful bite-sized treat for casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese:
- 1.5 cups grated Parmesan cheese
Vegetables:
- 1 cup shredded zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini)
- 1 cup shredded carrot (about 2 medium carrots)
Seasonings and Oils:
- 0.25 teaspoons (¼ teaspoon) black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoons (¼ teaspoon) garlic powder
- 0.25 teaspoons (¼ teaspoon) salt (optional)
- Olive oil or non-stick spray (for greasing the pan)
Instructions
- Prepare the muffin pan by coating each cup with a light layer of olive oil or non-stick spray to ensure easy removal of the fricos.
- Extract excess moisture from zucchini and carrot by placing the shredded vegetables in a clean kitchen towel and firmly squeezing out liquid.
- Create a unified mixture by combining the drained zucchini, shredded carrot, finely grated Parmesan cheese, freshly ground black pepper, aromatic garlic powder, and a pinch of salt in a mixing bowl.
- Thoroughly blend the ingredients until each component is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Carefully distribute the vegetable and cheese blend into the prepared muffin pan, using the back of a spoon to gently compact and shape each portion.
- Position the muffin pan in a preheated oven set to 375F (190C) and bake until the edges transform into a crisp, golden-brown color, approximately 12-15 minutes.
- Allow the fricos to rest in the pan for 5 minutes, enabling them to set and cool slightly.
- Delicately release the fricos from the pan using a small spatula or knife, ensuring they maintain their delicate shape.
- Present the fricos as a versatile accompaniment, either warm or at ambient temperature, perfect as a sophisticated snack, elegant appetizer, or crunchy salad garnish.
Notes
- Choose low-moisture vegetables like zucchini to prevent soggy fricos and ensure crispy texture.
- Pat shredded vegetables thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess water, which helps achieve golden, crunchy edges.
- Experiment with different cheese varieties like aged cheddar or Pecorino Romano for unique flavor profiles and varied textures.
- Consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or basil to elevate the overall taste and provide additional aromatic complexity.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 135
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 50 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg