Zucchini Cottage Cheese Spring Rolls (Air Fryer)

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🥢 Introduction:

These Zucchini Cottage Cheese Spring Rolls are a fresh, crunchy take on classic spring rolls with a healthy twist. Packed with grated zucchini, creamy cottage cheese, herbs, and wrapped in rice paper, they’re air-fried until golden and crisp — no deep frying required! Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian appetizer or a guilt-free snack, these rolls deliver big on flavor without the extra oil.

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🧺 Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 1 medium zucchini, grated and squeezed to remove excess moisture
• 1 cup cottage cheese (use low-fat if desired)
• 1 small carrot, grated
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional for heat)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh coriander (cilantro)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon roasted cumin powder (optional)

For Wrapping and Cooking:

• 8–10 rice paper sheets (spring roll wrappers)
• Olive oil spray or a brush of oil
• Water for softening the wrappers

Optional Dipping Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes or sriracha
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil

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🍴 Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. Grate the zucchini and squeeze out the excess water using a clean towel or cheesecloth.
2. In a bowl, mix grated zucchini, cottage cheese, grated carrot, garlic, green chili (if using), coriander, mint, salt, pepper, chili flakes, and cumin powder.
3. Mix until well combined. The mixture should be moist but not watery.

Step 2: Wrap the Rolls

1. Fill a shallow bowl or large plate with warm water.
2. Dip one rice paper sheet into the water for about 10–15 seconds, just until soft but not mushy.
3. Lay the softened wrapper flat on a clean surface.
4. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the zucchini-cottage cheese filling near the center.
5. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll it up tightly like a burrito.
6. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.

Step 3: Air Fry the Rolls

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes.
2. Lightly spray or brush the rolls with a bit of oil.
3. Place rolls in the air fryer basket in a single layer (don’t overcrowd).
4. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
5. Remove and let them cool slightly.

Step 4: Prepare the Dipping Sauce (Optional)

1. In a small bowl, mix all sauce ingredients until combined.
2. Adjust flavor to taste — more sweetness, heat, or tang depending on preference.

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🌱 Serving Suggestions:

• Serve warm with dipping sauce.
• Great as an appetizer, snack, or light lunch with a side salad.
• For a vegan version, use crumbled tofu instead of cottage cheese.

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🧑‍🍳 Tips & Variations:

• Add protein: Toss in some crumbled paneer or tofu for extra bulk.
• Switch up herbs: Use basil or dill for a different flavor profile.
• No rice paper? Use thin wrappers like phyllo or lettuce leaves (not for air frying).
• Make ahead: Assemble the rolls and refrigerate; air fry just before serving.

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