Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Stuffed zucchini boats are a delicious and healthy dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish. This versatile recipe allows you to get creative with the fillings, making it a perfect way to use up any leftover ingredients in your fridge. Whether you’re a vegetarian or a meat lover, there’s a stuffed zucchini boat recipe out there for everyone. So, let’s dive in and explore the world of stuffed zucchini boats!

Ingredients:

• 4 medium zucchini
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh, leaving about a ¼ inch thick shell. Reserve the flesh for later use.

3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.

4. Add the bell pepper and the reserved zucchini flesh to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.

5. Stir in the cooked quinoa and diced tomatoes. Season with dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

6. Place the hollowed-out zucchini boats in a baking dish. Spoon the filling mixture into each boat, pressing it down gently.

7. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of each zucchini boat.

8. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

9. Remove from the oven and let the stuffed zucchini boats cool for a few minutes before serving.

Variations:

Feel free to experiment with different fillings and toppings to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas:

• Add cooked ground meat such as beef, turkey, or chicken to the filling mixture for a heartier option.
• Include other vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or corn for added flavor and texture.
• Top the stuffed zucchini boats with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking for a crispy finish.
• Drizzle a tangy sauce like marinara or pesto over the top for an extra burst of flavor.

Stuffed zucchini boats are not only delicious but also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Whether you’re looking for a healthy weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to serve at a gathering, these zucchini boats are sure to be a hit. So, grab some zucchinis and get creative in the kitchen!