Cold ricotta and zucchini meatballs (perfect for the beach!)

Lunch by the Sea Lunch by the Sea If you're looking for a light, nutritious recipe that's loved by kids, these cold ricotta and zucchini meatballs are the perfect solution.
Perfect to prepare in advance, they can be enjoyed cold under the umbrella, on a trip or as a savoury post-swim snack.
Plus, there's no need to fry them: you can cook them in an air fryer or in the oven for a healthy and tasty result.

Ingredients (for about 12 meatballs)

• 250 g fresh cow's ricotta (well drained)

• 1 medium zucchini

• 2 tablespoons of wholemeal breadcrumbs

• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 egg (optional)

• Chopped parsley to taste

• A pinch of salt

• Extra virgin olive oil (spray or brush)

Preparation

1. Prepare the courgette
   Wash the zucchini, grate it with a coarse grater, and squeeze it thoroughly with a clean cloth. This step is essential to prevent the meatballs from becoming too moist.

2. Mix the ingredients
   In a bowl, combine the drained zucchini, drained ricotta, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt.
   If you want a thicker consistency, add the egg too.

3. Shape the meatballs
   Mix until the dough is soft but workable. If it's too runny, add a little breadcrumbs.
   With slightly wet hands, form small meatballs and arrange them on a plate.

4. Cooking

   • Air fryer: Preheat oven to 180°C. Arrange the meatballs in a basket lined with perforated parchment paper or sprayed with oil. Cook for 12-14 minutes, turning halfway through.

   • In a traditional oven: cook at 180°C static for about 20 minutes, until golden.

5. Let it cool completely
   Let them rest and cool thoroughly before storing them in an airtight container: they will be perfect to enjoy cold even hours later.

Helpful tips

• 🧒 Perfect for children : they are soft, delicate and easily digestible.

• 🧊 Storage : They keep in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can also freeze them once cooked.

• 🏖️ Beach version : combine them with vegetable sticks and fresh fruit (like watermelon or melon) for a complete and balanced meal to take to the beach.

• 🧼 Cleaning the air fryer : Soak the basket in hot water and a drop of detergent for 10 minutes, then rinse with a soft sponge.

Visit our shop for offers on all products guaranteed for 5 years!