Ingredients

• 4 round courgettes (zucchini)
• 4 eggs
• 30 g of Emmental cheese (grated)
• 4 teaspoons of Parmesan cheese
• Half an onion (finely chopped)
• 1 clove of garlic (minced)
• Olive oil (for cooking)
• Salt (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Courgettes

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Hollow Out the Courgettes: Wash the courgettes thoroughly and cut off the tops (set them aside). Using a spoon, scoop out the insides, leaving enough of the outer layer so the courgettes can hold their shape.
3. Blanch the Courgettes: To soften the courgettes, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the hollowed courgettes and blanch them for about 3-5 minutes, then remove and set them aside to drain.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Cook the Onion and Garlic: In a pan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Whisk the Eggs: In a bowl, whisk the 4 eggs together, then stir in the sautéed onions and garlic, the grated Emmental cheese, and 2 teaspoons of Parmesan cheese. Add salt and pepper to taste.
3. Stuff the Courgettes: Place the hollowed courgettes in a baking dish. Spoon the egg mixture into each courgette until they are full. Sprinkle the remaining 2 teaspoons of Parmesan on top for a crispy, cheesy finish.

Step 3: Bake the Courgettes

1. Bake in the Oven: Place the stuffed courgettes in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the egg mixture is set and the courgettes are tender.
2. Broil for Crispiness: If you prefer a crispier top, you can switch to the broil setting in the last 3-5 minutes to achieve a golden, crispy layer of cheese.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, let the stuffed courgettes cool for a few minutes before serving. You can garnish with some fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for an extra burst of flavor.
2. Serve Warm: These stuffed courgettes are best served warm, either as a main dish or as a side to complement a protein or salad.

Cooking Tips

1. Choose the Right Courgettes: Round courgettes work best for this recipe because they are easy to hollow and fill. However, if you can’t find round courgettes, larger regular zucchinis can also be used.
2. Customize the Filling: Feel free to add additional ingredients to the filling such as chopped ham, bacon, or sautéed mushrooms to enhance the flavor.
3. Grate Your Own Cheese: For a richer flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan and Emmental cheese rather than pre-packaged grated cheese.
4. Avoid Overcooking the Courgettes: When blanching the courgettes, don’t cook them for too long as they will become too soft and might collapse during baking.

Storage

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
• Freezing: You can freeze the stuffed courgettes before baking. After stuffing them, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. To cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as per the instructions.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 200 kcal
• Protein: 12 g
• Fat: 14 g
• Carbohydrates: 6 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 450 mg

These values may vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used, especially the type and amount of cheese.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?

• Yes, you can substitute the Emmental and Parmesan with other cheeses such as cheddar, Gruyère, or mozzarella. Each cheese will bring a slightly different flavor profile to the dish.

2. How do I know when the courgettes are done baking?

• The stuffed courgettes are done when the eggs are fully set, and the tops are golden and slightly crispy. You can check by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, they are ready.

3. What can I serve with stuffed courgettes?

• Stuffed courgettes pair well with a light green salad, roasted potatoes, or grilled chicken. They also make a fantastic vegetarian option on their own.

4. Can I make this recipe in advance?

• Yes, you can prepare the stuffed courgettes ahead of time, refrigerate them, and bake them just before serving. This is especially helpful if you’re preparing for a dinner party.

5. Can I use regular courgettes instead of round ones?

• Absolutely. If you can’t find round courgettes, you can cut regular courgettes in half lengthwise and hollow them out to create space for the filling.

Conclusion

These Stuffed Courgettes with Eggs and Cheese are a fantastic dish that can easily become a family favorite. They are nutritious, delicious, and simple to make, with the flexibility to adjust the filling according to your taste. Whether you’re making them as a quick dinner or serving them as an impressive side dish at a party, this recipe is sure to satisfy. With its balance of flavors from the eggs, cheese, garlic, and onions, these courgettes are a great way to enjoy a healthy and filling meal. Happy cooking!