Fried Zucchini Blossoms Stuffed with Basil Ricotta

Step 1

Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine the ricotta, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and basil. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2

Using a pastry bag, fitted with a small round tip, pipe roughly 1 to 1½ teaspoons of ricotta mixture into the center of each zucchini blossom. The blossoms should be able to close on their own - do not overfill or the mixture will spill during frying.

Step 3

Prepare the Batter: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Slowly pour in the seltzer water, and whisk until combined. It should bubble and eventually become the consistency of a thin yogurt. Season mixture with salt. Set aside.

Step 4

Fry the Zucchini Blossoms: Add oil to a large straight-sided sauté pan until it is roughly 2-inches deep. Place over medium-high heat until the temperature reaches 375°F (190°C). Line a plate with paper towels and set aside.

Step 5

Dip a few stuffed zucchini blossoms into the batter, allowing any excess batter to fall. Fry the blossoms (4 to 5 at a time; do not overcrowd the pan), flipping as needed, until golden brown on all sides. They should bubble aggressively once they hit the hot oil.

Step 6

Lift the fried blossoms with a slotted spoon or spide, and place on the paper towel lined plate to absorb excess oil. Sprinkle with salt immediately. Repeat until all of the zucchini blossoms have been fried. Serve hot with lemon wedges for squeezing.