Stuffed Zucchini Recipe

This Stuffed Zucchini Recipe is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for dinner or as a side. It features tender zucchini halves filled with a delicious mixture of minced meat, vegetables, mushrooms, pineapple, and cheese, making it a delightful combination of savory and sweet. Topped with Parmesan and baked to perfection, this dish is sure to impress!

Preparation Time:

  • Prep time: 25 minutes
  • Cook time: 30 minutes
  • Total time: 55 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 3 zucchini, halved and cored
  • Olive oil (for drizzling and frying)
  • Salt (to taste)
  • Paprika (to taste)
  • Garlic powder (to taste)
  • Dried dill (to taste)
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 250 g mushrooms, chopped
  • 200 g canned pineapple, cut into small pieces
  • 300 g minced meat (beef, pork, or mixed)
  • Pepper (to taste)
  • 200 g cheese, grated
  • 50 g Parmesan, grated (for topping)

Directions:

  1. Prepare the Zucchini:
    • Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F).
    • Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise and peel the skin if desired.
    • Use a spoon to scoop out the core, creating a hollow space for the filling.
    • Drizzle the zucchini with olive oil, then season with salt, paprika, garlic powder, and dried dill.
    • Bake the zucchini halves for 15 minutes.
  2. Prepare the Filling:
    • Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
    • Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
    • Add the chopped garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes.
    • Add the chopped mushrooms, season with salt, paprika, and garlic powder, and fry for 2-3 minutes.
    • Stir in the chopped pineapple and cook for 1-2 more minutes.
  3. Cook the Minced Meat:
    • In another pan, heat some olive oil and cook the minced meat until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
    • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
    • Once cooked, mix the minced meat with the vegetable-mushroom-pineapple mixture.
  4. Assemble the Zucchini:
    • Remove the baked zucchini from the oven.
    • Fill each zucchini half with the prepared meat and vegetable mixture.
    • Top each filled zucchini with grated cheese.
  5. Bake Again:
    • Return the stuffed zucchini to the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes at 200°C.
    • After baking, sprinkle the stuffed zucchini with grated Parmesan and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Serve:
    • Let the stuffed zucchini cool for a few minutes before serving.
    • Enjoy this delicious and nutritious dish, packed with flavor and texture!

Cooking Tips:

  • Customize the Filling: You can substitute the minced meat with ground turkey, chicken, or a vegetarian option like lentils or quinoa.
  • Add Spice: For a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper with the seasoning.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Balanced Flavor: The combination of savory meat, earthy mushrooms, and sweet pineapple creates a perfect balance of flavors.
  • Nutrient-Rich: Zucchini is low in calories but high in vitamins and fiber, while the meat provides protein and the mushrooms add antioxidants.
  • Versatile: This dish works as both a main course or a side, and you can modify the filling to suit your tastes.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Zucchini: High in vitamins A and C, low in calories, and packed with fiber.
  • Mushrooms: Rich in antioxidants and B vitamins.
  • Minced Meat: A great source of protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc.

Storage Information:

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
  • Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through.

Conclusion:

This Stuffed Zucchini is a perfect dish for those looking to enjoy a healthy and delicious meal. The combination of juicy zucchini, seasoned meat, vegetables, and melted cheese makes it a satisfying and crowd-pleasing recipe. It’s quick to prepare, full of flavor, and ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions!

Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
    • Yes, substitute the minced meat with plant-based meat, lentils, or quinoa.
  2. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
    • Absolutely! Fresh pineapple works just as well and adds a lovely sweetness.
  3. Can I freeze stuffed zucchini?
    • Yes, freeze the stuffed zucchini after baking for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven until fully warmed through.
  4. What can I serve with this dish?
    • Serve with a fresh salad, rice, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
  5. Can I add other vegetables to the filling?
    • Feel free to add bell peppers, spinach, or carrots to the filling mixture.