A new take on zucchini: Gourmet rings with ham and cheese

Instead of onion rings, I make zucchini rings, but I don't fry them in breadcrumbs; I serve them in a much tastier version. This way, they transform from a party snack into a dish that can be served during a formal dinner. Here's the recipe.

Zucchini rings are the perfect way to use a large zucchini, which usually has such overgrown seed cavities that it's hard to find a use. It's easier to cut rings from a large zucchini, which you then simply need to wrap in delicious toppings and bake.

A large zucchini needs special handling. It doesn't have as soft a skin as a younger one, and its seed cavity is usually so overgrown that you don't know what to do with it. That's why the recipe for zucchini rings is so unique — not only does it provide a solution for a large zucchini, but you also prepare a dish worthy of a master kitchen.

Depending on the size of the zucchini you're working with, you can use a glass or a small cup to help you cut perfect rings. However, remember that each ring will be wrapped in a slice of cured ham, so the shape doesn't have to be perfect.

Ingredients:

            
• 1 large zucchini
• 10-20 slices of cured ham (depending on the number of rings)
• 100-200 grams of yellow cheese
• 50-100 grams of dried tomatoes
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley
• Garlic or BBQ sauce for serving

Preparation:

1. Wash the zucchini and cut it into thick slices (you can peel it beforehand if the skin is too tough).
2. Cut out the seed cavities from the slices.
3. Grate the yellow cheese and chop the dried tomatoes.
4. Place the yellow cheese and dried tomatoes on the zucchini rings, pressing gently so the toppings stick to the zucchini.
5. Wrap each zucchini ring in a slice of long-aged ham at an angle.
6. Bake the rings at 200°C until the ham is browned and the vegetable slightly softens.
7. Serve the prepared rings with garlic or BBQ sauce.