Stuffed zucchini is a delightful dish that combines the freshness of summer squash with a savory filling, creating a satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and delicious. This recipe offers a juicy and flavorful twist on traditional stuffed zucchini, making it a standout choice for any occasion.
🥒 Ingredients
To prepare this delectable stuffed zucchini, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1 lb (450g) ground turkey or beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cooked rice (or quinoa for a gluten-free option)
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese (or a mix of mozzarella and parmesan)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for extra texture)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained (or use fresh tomatoes)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a kick)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)SELFThe Mediterranean Dish
👩🍳 Instructions
- Prepare the Zucchini:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Wash the zucchinis thoroughly.
- Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise.
- Using a spoon, carefully scoop out the center of each half, leaving a sturdy shell.
- Place the hollowed zucchini halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.Clean & Delicious+1Food.com+1
- Cook the Filling:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet.
- Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add the ground turkey or beef to the skillet.
- Cook until the meat is browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
- Season with salt, pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Stir in the cooked rice (or quinoa), diced tomatoes, and half of the grated mozzarella cheese.
- Mix everything together until well combined.The Plant Based School
- Stuff the Zucchini:
- Spoon the prepared filling into each zucchini half, pressing gently to pack the mixture.
- Top each stuffed zucchini with the remaining grated mozzarella cheese.
- If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese for added texture.
- Bake:
- Place the stuffed zucchinis in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the stuffed zucchinis from the oven.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil.
- Serve hot as a main dish or a hearty side.Spend With Pennies+1lacucinaitaliana.com+1Love and Lemons
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
These juicy stuffed zucchinis pair wonderfully with:
- A crisp green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette.
- Garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up any delicious juices.
- A side of roasted vegetables or steamed asparagus for added nutrition.
🧾 Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 600mgClean & Delicious
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
🌿 Variations and Tips
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground meat with a plant-based protein like lentils or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
- Cheese Lovers: Add a layer of ricotta or cream cheese to the filling for a richer taste.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the filling for added heat.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the stuffed zucchinis ahead of time and refrigerate. Bake them just before serving for a convenient meal.
This stuffed zucchini recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Its versatility allows for various adaptations to suit different dietary preferences and tastes. Enjoy preparing and savoring this dish with your loved ones!
