Indulge in a burst of Italian flavors and fresh produce with this delightful recipe for Ricotta and Sweetcorn Fritters served alongside vibrant zucchini noodles. These fritters encapsulate the essence of Italy, featuring the creamy richness of Perfect Italiano™ Ricotta and the robust notes of grated Perfect Italiano™ Parmesan. Paired with the refreshing zing of zucchini noodles, this dish is a harmonious marriage of textures and tastes. Let’s dive into the history, story, and preparation of this mouthwatering creation.

The roots of fritters can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where variations of fried dough or batter-coated foods were popular across cultures. In Italy, fritters have long been a cherished part of culinary tradition. Historically, these delightful bites were crafted using locally available ingredients to create a simple yet satisfying meal.

In this modern twist, the recipe combines the rich and creamy flavor of Ricotta, a soft Italian cheese known for its versatility, with the distinctive taste of Parmesan, a hard cheese that has graced Italian tables for centuries. The fritters, with their crispy exterior and luscious interior, pay homage to the art of frying cherished by Italian cuisine.

The addition of leeks and sweetcorn not only adds depth of flavor but also represents the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Zucchini, a staple in Mediterranean diets, takes center stage as a healthy alternative to pasta, contributing a burst of color and nutrition.

SERVES 4

COOK TIME: 10 MINS

PREP TIME: 5 MINS

INGREDIENTS

• 400g Perfect Italiano™ Ricotta
• 40g Perfect Italiano™ Parmesan, grated
• 1 leek, sliced
• 1 can sweetcorn, kernels
• 80g flour
• 4 eggs
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 large zucchini, finely sliced or noodled
• 1 red chili, finely sliced
• 1 lemon, juiced
• Salt and pepper to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a mixing bowl, combine Perfect Italiano™ Ricotta and grated Parmesan, sliced leeks, sweetcorn kernels, flour, eggs, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well combined, forming a batter.
2. Using your hands, mold the batter into fritter shapes, ensuring they are compact and well-formed.
3. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the olive oil and let it heat up.
4. Carefully place the fritters in the pan, ensuring they have enough space between them. Cook each fritter until the bottom side is golden brown and crispy.
5. Gently flip the fritters using a spatula and cook the other side until it achieves the same golden brown texture and is cooked through.
6. While the fritters are cooking, prepare the zucchini noodles. You can either spiralize the zucchini or finely slice it, according to your preference.
7. In a separate bowl, toss the zucchini noodles with the finely sliced red chili, freshly squeezed lemon juice, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Ensure the flavors are well distributed.
8. Once the fritters are ready, serve them alongside the zucchini noodles, creating an inviting and colorful arrangement on each plate.
9. Optionally, garnish with extra grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an added burst of flavor and visual appeal.
10. Enjoy this Italian-inspired fusion dish, savoring the contrasts of creamy fritters and refreshing zucchini noodles, all brought together by the richness of Perfect Italiano™ cheeses.

NOTES:

• This recipe serves as a delightful appetizer or a light meal, capturing the essence of Italian flavors while celebrating the versatility of fresh, seasonal produce.