Follow these steps for perfect results
zucchini
sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick slices
plum tomatoes
halved
red onion
cut into 1/4-inch thick rings
olive oil
kosher salt
rustic white bread
crusts removed, cut into bite-size cubes
red wine vinegar
garlic
smashed and minced
canola oil
cake flour
baking powder
club soda
goat cheese
zucchini blossoms
fresh basil leaves
baby arugula
Heat a grill or grill pan.
Toss the zucchini, tomatoes, and onions gently with olive oil and salt.
Grill the zucchini, tomatoes, and onions until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Toss the bread cubes with red wine vinegar, minced garlic, 1 tablespoon olive oil, a sprinkle of water, and salt.
Chop the grilled vegetables.
Add the chopped grilled vegetables to the bread mixture.
Toss gently together and season with salt, to taste.
Heat the canola oil to 375 degrees F.
Whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, a pinch of salt, and club soda to make a batter.
Spoon the goat cheese into a piping bag.
Cut a hole in the piping bag.
Gently fill each zucchini blossom with goat cheese.
Dip each filled zucchini blossom into the batter.
Carefully place the battered blossoms into the hot oil.
Cook until lightly puffed and golden brown.
Remove the fried zucchini blossoms from the oil.
Drain the fried zucchini blossoms on a paper towel.
Season the fried zucchini blossoms immediately with salt.
Fry the fresh basil leaves in the hot oil until just crisped.
Set aside the fried basil leaves.
Toss the baby arugula with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and a splash of red wine vinegar.
Divide the arugula among 4 plates.
Mold the panzanella into a ring mold.
Place the molded panzanella on a plate.
Repeat with remaining plates.
Top each panzanella portion with 1 fried zucchini blossom.
Drizzle each plate with olive oil.
Top each plate with a fried basil leaf.
Expert advice for the best results
Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the zucchini blossoms to prevent them from becoming soggy.
Don't overcrowd the grill when cooking the vegetables.
Season the panzanella generously with salt and pepper.
Everything you need to know before you start
20 minutes
The panzanella can be made a few hours ahead of time.
Arrange the arugula salad on the plate, top with the panzanella ring, and garnish with the fried zucchini blossom and basil leaf.
Serve as a light lunch or appetizer.
Pairs well with the flavors of the salad and fried blossoms
Discover the story behind this recipe
Zucchini blossoms are a traditional ingredient in Italian cuisine.
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