Zucchini boats are an easy, healthy, and delicious way to enjoy summer’s most versatile vegetable. These zucchini boats are stuffed with a savory mix of sautéed vegetables and melted cheese, then baked to perfection with a crispy breadcrumb topping. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, these cheesy zucchini boats will quickly become a family favorite!
Preparation Time
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 25 minutes
- Total: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 zucchini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 1 red pepper (diced)
- 1 medium carrot (grated)
- A pinch of black pepper
- 50 g cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or your choice)
- 1 tablespoon parsley (chopped)
- 3 tablespoons breadcrumbs
Directions
- Prepare the Zucchini Boats:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds to create a “boat” shape.
- Brush the inside of the zucchini with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
- Place them on a baking tray and bake for 10 minutes to soften slightly.
- Make the Filling:
- While the zucchini is baking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, diced red pepper, and grated carrot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are soft and lightly browned.
- Season with a pinch of black pepper and salt. Stir in the chopped parsley and half of the cheese.
- Assemble the Zucchini Boats:
- Remove the zucchini boats from the oven and fill each one with the vegetable mixture.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of the stuffed zucchini.
- Mix the breadcrumbs with a drizzle of olive oil and sprinkle over the cheese for a crispy topping.
- Bake:
- Return the zucchini boats to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
- Serve:
- Garnish with extra parsley and serve warm. Enjoy as a side dish or a light main course.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these zucchini boats with a fresh salad or alongside a protein like grilled chicken or fish.
- You can also add a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top for extra creaminess.
Cooking Tips
- For extra flavor, add some minced garlic or Italian seasoning to the sautéed vegetables.
- If you like a crunchier top, broil the zucchini boats for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking.
Nutritional Benefits
- Low-Carb: Zucchini is naturally low in carbs, making this recipe perfect for those on a keto or low-carb diet.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Packed with vitamin A and C from the zucchini, red pepper, and carrots, this dish supports a healthy immune system.
- Rich in Fiber: The vegetables provide a good amount of dietary fiber, which is great for digestion.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: This recipe is naturally vegetarian.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
- Low-Calorie: Zucchini boats are a light meal option with low calories but high in nutrients.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fat: 11 g
- Fiber: 4 g
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 175°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
- Freezing: You can freeze the stuffed zucchini boats before baking, then bake them from frozen when ready to eat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly for an easy weeknight dinner.
- Nutritious and Flavorful: Loaded with veggies and cheesy goodness, it’s a delicious way to sneak in more vegetables.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy topping and fun boat shape.
- Versatile: You can change up the filling ingredients to suit your tastes or use up whatever vegetables you have on hand.
Conclusion
Stuffed zucchini boats are a fantastic way to enjoy a light and flavorful meal that’s packed with nutrients. The combination of sautéed vegetables, melted cheese, and a crispy breadcrumb topping makes for a satisfying bite every time. Whether you’re looking for a simple side dish or a fun way to switch up your veggie intake, these zucchini boats will not disappoint. Give them a try, and they might just become a staple in your kitchen!
10 Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other vegetables for the filling?
Yes! You can add mushrooms, spinach, or even corn to the filling. - Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Just use a plant-based cheese and skip the Parmesan for a vegan version. - What type of cheese works best?
Mozzarella, cheddar, or even feta are great options for this recipe. - Do I have to pre-bake the zucchini?
Pre-baking softens the zucchini and ensures they cook evenly, but you can skip this step if you prefer firmer zucchini. - Can I add meat to the filling?
Yes! You can add cooked ground beef, chicken, or sausage to the filling for extra protein. - Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs?
Yes, gluten-free breadcrumbs work perfectly in this recipe. - Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the zucchini boats and refrigerate them before baking. Bake when ready to serve. - What can I serve this dish with?
It pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. - How do I prevent the zucchini from becoming soggy?
You can sprinkle some salt on the zucchini boats and let them sit for 10 minutes, then pat dry before baking to remove excess moisture. - Can I freeze stuffed zucchini boats?
Yes, you can freeze the prepared but unbaked zucchini boats. Bake directly from frozen when ready.