🥒💚 Zucchini Roll with Ham & Cream Cheese

Light, elegant savory roll — perfect for brunch, party platters, or a fresh snack.

Ingredients

• 3 medium zucchini (about 600 g / 1.3 lb), grated and well drained
• 4 large eggs
• 1/3 cup (40 g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
• 8–10 oz (225–280 g) cream cheese, softened
• 2–3 tbsp sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional — for a lighter filling)
• 8–10 slices deli ham (or smoked turkey)
• Fresh herbs: chopped chives, parsley or dill (2 tbsp) — optional
• Olive oil or nonstick spray for pan/linen

Equipment

• Large mixing bowls, fine sieve or cheesecloth
• Baking sheet (approx. 11×15 inch / jelly-roll pan) + parchment paper
• Plastic wrap or clean kitchen towel

Instructions

1. Prep zucchini: Grate zucchini and place in a fine sieve or clean kitchen towel. Press or squeeze firmly to remove as much liquid as possible (this keeps the base from becoming soggy).
2. Make batter: In a bowl whisk eggs, then stir in drained zucchini, flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until evenly combined.
3. Bake the base: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment and lightly oil it. Spread the zucchini mixture into an even layer (about 8–10mm / ⅓–½ in thick). Bake 15–18 minutes until set and lightly golden.
4. Prepare filling: Meanwhile, beat the softened cream cheese with sour cream (if using) and chopped herbs until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning.
5. Assemble roll: When the zucchini sheet is done, remove and let cool 3–5 minutes. Flip it onto a clean piece of parchment or plastic wrap (so the top is now down). Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly, leaving a small edge. Lay ham slices over the cream cheese.
6. Roll up: Starting from the short side, use the parchment/plastic to help roll the zucchini into a tight log. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up (this makes slicing neat).
7. Serve: Remove plastic, slice into 1–1.5 cm (½ in) rounds with a sharp knife. Arrange on a platter and garnish with additional herbs if desired. Serve chilled or at cool room temperature.

Tips & Variations

• Extra flavor: Mix a teaspoon of Dijon or whole-grain mustard into the cream cheese.
• Vegetarian: Replace ham with roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or grilled eggplant slices.
• Make ahead: Roll can be made a day ahead and kept covered in the fridge; slice just before serving.
• Slicing tip: Chill well and use a serrated knife in a sawing motion for perfect rounds.