Zucchini Waffle with Smoked Salmon and Greens

zucchini waffle smoked salmon and greens
Photo: Ngoc Minh Ngo
Prep Time:
30 mins
Total Time:
55 mins
Servings:
4

Take waffles for a savory spin by adding grated zucchini, Gruyere, scallions, and fresh dill to the batter. Finish with garlicky sauteed spinach, creme fraiche, and smoked salmon for a restaurant-worthy brunch dish.

Ingredients

  • 2 medium zucchini (each 9 ounces), coarsely grated

  • Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper

  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

  • 1 clove garlic, smashed

  • 10 ounces baby spinach

  • ½ cup unbleached all-purpose flour

  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten

  • ½ cup finely grated Gruyere

  • 2 scallions, trimmed and thinly sliced (¼ cup)

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill, plus sprigs for serving

  • Vegetable-oil cooking spray

  • ¼ cup creme fraiche or sour cream

  • 4 ounces thinly sliced smoked salmon

Directions

  1. Sprinkle zucchini with 1 teaspoon salt; toss to coat. Transfer to a colander and let stand 10 minutes. Meanwhile, heat oil and garlic in a medium skillet over medium-high until garlic begins to sizzle. Add spinach and cook, tossing, until wilted, 2 to 3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

  2. Preheat a waffle iron to medium. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Squeeze zucchini dry in a large potato ricer or a clean kitchen towel; transfer to a bowl. Stir in eggs, cheese, scallions, and dill. Pour over flour mixture and gently stir to combine. (Batter will be very thick.)

  3. Spray waffle iron with cooking spray. Spoon one-quarter of batter (about 1/2 cup) into center; spread into a 5-inch circle and close. Cook until golden brown and crisp, 7 to 9 minutes. Transfer directly to the rack of a 200-degree oven to keep warm while cooking remaining waffles. Serve warm, with spinach, creme fraiche, and salmon, sprinkled with dill sprigs and pepper.

Cook's Notes

The secret to a tender (not gummy) waffle is to cook it all the way through. The cooking time will vary based on your waffle iron; shoot for a moderate heat and cook until golden brown and crispy. Then test the first waffle by slicing into the center: It should look fluffy!

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