These Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a delightful and nutritious way to enjoy zucchini. With a creamy mushroom and cheese filling, they make a perfect side dish or a light main course. The recipe is quick to prepare, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish. Ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these boats are as delicious as they are versatile.
Preparation Time:
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 zucchinis (300-340g), cut in half lengthwise and hollowed out
- 100g mushrooms, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped (about 1/2 cup)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- 150g cream cheese (about 2/3 cup)
- 60-80g cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1/2 to 2/3 cup)
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
Directions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Prepare Zucchini: Cut zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds. Brush with olive oil and place in a baking dish.
- Cook the Filling: Sauté onion, garlic, and mushrooms in olive oil until tender. Mix in cream cheese and season with salt.
- Stuff and Bake: Fill zucchini boats with mushroom mixture, top with shredded cheddar, and bake for 25 minutes.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a fresh salad or alongside grilled meats.
- Enjoy as a main dish with a side of rice or quinoa.
Cooking Tips:
- Add herbs like thyme or oregano to the filling for extra flavor.
- Ensure zucchinis are evenly hollowed to cook uniformly.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Zucchinis are low in calories and high in vitamins.
- Mushrooms provide essential nutrients and antioxidants.
- Cream cheese and cheddar add a creamy texture and calcium.
Dietary Information:
- Contains dairy.
- Can be made gluten-free by ensuring cheese is gluten-free.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, assuming 4 servings):
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 10g
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Delicious and creamy with a healthy twist.
- Quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile and can be customized with your favorite ingredients.
- A crowd-pleaser that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
Conclusion: These Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a fantastic way to enjoy a low-calorie, flavorful meal. The creamy filling and melted cheese offer a delightful contrast to the tender zucchini. Perfect for any occasion, they bring both taste and nutrition to your table. Enjoy this easy-to-make recipe and impress your family and friends with a dish that’s as delicious as it is healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use different types of cheese?
- Yes, substitute with mozzarella, gouda, or your preferred cheese.
- Can I prepare these ahead of time?
- Yes, prepare and stuff the zucchini boats a day before and bake them when ready.
- How can I make this dish vegetarian?
- The recipe is vegetarian; just ensure the cheese used is vegetarian-friendly.
- Can I add meat to the filling?
- Yes, add cooked ground turkey or chicken for additional protein.
- What can I use instead of cream cheese?
- Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative works well.
- Can I use pre-cooked zucchini?
- It’s best to use raw zucchini for better texture.
- How can I make this dish spicier?
- Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling.
- Can I freeze these stuffed zucchini boats?
- Yes, freeze before baking. Thaw and bake when ready to serve.
- How long does it take to bake?
- Bake for about 25 minutes at 200°C (400°F) until tender and cheese is melted.
- Can I use other vegetables?
- Yes, bell peppers, eggplant, or tomatoes are great alternatives.