Looking for a dish that’s not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor? These Stuffed Zucchini Boats are the perfect solution! They are a fantastic way to turn a simple vegetable into a satisfying meal. Whether you’re aiming for a healthy dinner or a fun side dish, these boats will leave you satisfied and wanting more.
Imagine sinking your teeth into tender zucchini filled with a delightful mixture of savory ingredients. They are versatile enough to suit any palate, and you can easily customize the stuffing to include your favorite proteins or grains. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that will impress both family and friends alike.
Delicious Stuffed Zucchini Boats
These Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a delightful blend of tender zucchini, seasoned ground meat, tomatoes, and cheese.
They are baked to perfection for a satisfying dish that’s bursting with flavor.
The zucchini provides a subtle sweetness, while the stuffing adds a hearty, savory punch.
Ingredients Overview
For a successful preparation, gather essential components such as medium zucchinis, ground meat, and tomatoes.
The inclusion of aromatic onions and garlic enhances the flavor profile, while Italian seasoning adds that Mediterranean touch.
Don’t forget the cheeses—mozzarella and Parmesan—for that perfect melt and richness.
Preparation Process
Begin by preheating the oven, which sets the stage for the baking process.
Next, prepare the zucchinis by scooping out their centers, creating the perfect vessel for the savory filling.
Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant, then add your choice of ground meat until browned, creating the filling that will bring these boats to life.
Filling the Zucchini Boats
Once the filling is ready, it’s time to assemble the zucchini boats.
Spoon the meat mixture generously into each hollowed zucchini half, pressing gently to compact it.
This ensures every bite is packed with flavor and texture.
Baking to Perfection
Drizzle the tops with olive oil and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Baking in a preheated oven allows the zucchinis to soften while the cheese bubbles and turns golden brown.
The aroma that fills your kitchen during this time is a hint of deliciousness to come.
Garnishing and Serving
Once baked, remove the stuffed zucchini boats from the oven and let them cool slightly.
A final touch of fresh herbs like basil or parsley adds not just color, but a fresh flavor contrast.
Serve these vibrant boats warm, and watch them disappear from the table in no time!
Delicious Stuffed Zucchini Boats
These Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a delightful blend of tender zucchini, seasoned ground meat, tomatoes, and cheese. They are baked to perfection for a satisfying dish that’s bursting with flavor. The zucchini provides a subtle sweetness, while the stuffing adds a hearty, savory punch.
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchinis, halved lengthwise
- 1 pound ground turkey or beef
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil for drizzling
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Zucchini: Scoop out the center of each zucchini half to create boats, leaving about 1/4-inch of flesh. Set aside the scooped-out zucchini flesh.
- Cook the Filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the chopped onion and garlic until softened. Add the ground turkey or beef and cook until browned. Stir in the diced tomatoes, reserved zucchini flesh, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Fill the Zucchini: Place the zucchini halves in a baking dish. Spoon the meat mixture into each zucchini boat, pressing gently to pack it down.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the stuffed zucchini boats, followed by a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Drizzle the tops lightly with olive oil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve warm.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 10g