Uncle Larry Adventures

Italian Classics · Lazio

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Fiori di Zucca Fritti

Fiori di zucca fritti: zucchini blossoms stuffed with mozzarella and a piece of anchovy, dipped in a light batter and fried crisp — a Roman favorite.

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Fiori di Zucca Fritti

Fried stuffed zucchini blossoms

Italian antipasto board with cured meats, olives and cheese on a dark table

The short version

Fiori di zucca fritti: zucchini blossoms stuffed with mozzarella and a piece of anchovy, dipped in a light batter and fried crisp — a Roman favorite.

Prep
20 min
Cook
10 min
Total
30 min
Serves
4 servings

Ingredients

4 servings
  • 12 zucchini blossoms, stamens removed
  • 4 oz low-moisture mozzarella, cut into 12 sticks
  • 6 anchovy fillets, halved (optional)
  • ¾ cup flour
  • ¾ cup very cold sparkling water
  • Oil for frying
  • Flaky salt
View list

Instructions

  1. 01

    Stuff the flowers. Tuck a stick of mozzarella and a piece of anchovy into each blossom and twist the petals closed.

  2. 02

    Make the batter. Whisk the flour and cold sparkling water until just smooth — a few lumps are fine.

  3. 03

    Fry. Dip each flower and fry at 350°F for 2–3 minutes, turning once, until pale gold.

  4. 04

    Serve. Drain on a rack, salt and serve immediately.

Larry’s rule: Pick the blossoms in the morning when they're open. By afternoon they close up and fight you.

Quoting or citing this recipe? Credit “Uncle Larry Adventures” andlink to this page.

Before you cook

What to know about Fiori di Zucca Fritti

What it is

Fiori di Zucca Fritti is a antipasti recipe rooted in the direct, savory cooking of Lazio and Rome. This version makes 4 servings in 30 min and focuses on the technique that gives the dish its characteristic texture and flavor.

Why this method works

The method builds flavor in a deliberate order: stuff the flowers, then make the batter, then fry. Following that sequence keeps the main ingredients distinct while bringing the finished dish together.

Key ingredients and what they do

  • 12 zucchini blossoms, stamens removed — supports the dish's balance, texture and regional character.
  • 4 oz low-moisture mozzarella, cut into 12 sticks — contributes salt, richness and structure; its moisture and temperature affect the finish.
  • 6 anchovy fillets, halved (optional) — supports the dish's balance, texture and regional character.
  • ¾ cup flour — provides the recipe's main structure, so its cooking time and texture matter.

Smart substitutions

For the most reliable result, keep the main ingredient and technique unchanged. Swap only like for like, then adjust salt, moisture and cooking time to taste.

Make ahead and leftovers

Prepare the components ahead and assemble near serving time to protect crisp and creamy textures.

What to serve with it

  • Serve before the meal with olives, cheese and bread.
  • Arrange as part of a larger antipasto spread.

Did you make this?

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Questions Larry gets asked

How long does fiori di zucca fritti take to make?
About 30 min start to finish — roughly 20 min of prep and 10 min of cooking. That yields 4 servings.
What do you need to make fiori di zucca fritti?
7 ingredients, starting with 12 zucchini blossoms, stamens removed, 4 oz low-moisture mozzarella, cut into 12 sticks, 6 anchovy fillets, halved (optional). The full list with quantities is on this page.
How do you start fiori di zucca fritti?
Stuff the flowers: Tuck a stick of mozzarella and a piece of anchovy into each blossom and twist the petals closed.
How do you know when fiori di zucca fritti is done?
Serve. Drain on a rack, salt and serve immediately.
What is the most common mistake with fiori di zucca fritti?
Pick the blossoms in the morning when they're open. By afternoon they close up and fight you.
Can you make fiori di zucca fritti ahead of time?
Yes. Cool it completely, refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 3 days and reheat gently — covered, over low heat or in a 325°F oven — so it warms through without drying out. It is a appetizer that reheats well.

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Credit “Uncle Larry Adventures” and link to this recipe page.

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