Stuffed Zucchini boats

Are you looking for a delightful and nutritious way to enjoy your veggies? Look no further than these stuffed zucchini boats! Bursting with flavor, they are perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. This recipe brings together the heartiness of ground Italian sausage with the fresh tastes of vegetables, all housed in tender zucchini. It’s a meal that strikes the perfect balance between health and comfort food, making it a wonderful addition to your culinary repertoire.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Stuffed zucchini boats are not only visually appealing, but they also pack a punch in terms of flavor and nutrition. Zucchini is low in calories, making it a fantastic base for a filling dish. This recipe utilizes a savory blend of Italian sausage, bell peppers, diced tomatoes, and aromatic spices to create a filling that will have everyone coming back for more. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some extra veggies into your diet. Whether you’re a meat-lover or a vegetarian, this dish is versatile enough to accommodate various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

• 6 medium zucchini
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, peeled and diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground Italian sausage
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 1 bell pepper, seeded and diced
• 28 ounces canned diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Fresh oregano, chopped, for garnish

How To Make Stuffed Zucchini boats

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is warming up, wash your zucchini under cool water, then slice them in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, carefully scoop out the insides of the zucchini, creating a hollowed-out boat. Set the scooped-out flesh aside for later use.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Sausage

Next, add the ground Italian sausage to the skillet. Cook until well browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Add Vegetables and Seasoning

Stir in the reserved zucchini flesh, diced bell pepper, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Allow this mixture to cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. Finally, add the drained canned diced tomatoes and mix well, cooking for another couple of minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 5: Stuff the Zucchini

Remove the skillet from heat. With a spoon, generously fill each hollowed zucchini half with the sausage and vegetable mixture. Place the stuffed zucchini boats in a baking dish.

Step 6: Cheese it Up!

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over all the stuffed zucchini. Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the oven for about 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Once out of the oven, let the zucchini boats sit for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped oregano before serving. Enjoy your delicious stuffed zucchini boats!

Expert Tips

• Choose firm zucchini for better structure when baking.
• If you prefer more spice, consider using hot Italian sausage.
• You can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting the sausage with a plant-based alternative.
• For a more colorful dish, use a mix of different bell peppers.

Variations and Customizations

• Swap out the ground sausage for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add cooked rice or quinoa to the filling for more texture and substance.
• Incorporate other vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for additional nutrients.
• Top with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or feta, for a unique flavor twist.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftover stuffed zucchini boats can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also reheat them in the microwave, although the texture may not be quite as good as oven reheating.

FAQ

Can I make stuffed zucchini boats ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed zucchini boats up to the baking step, cover, and store them in the refrigerator overnight. When ready to bake, simply pop them in the oven and adjust the baking time as needed.

What can I do with the scooped-out zucchini flesh?

The scooped-out zucchini can be added to sauces, soups, or mixed into the filling for added moisture and flavor. Don’t let it go to waste!

Are zucchini boats gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as the ingredients (such as the sausage) do not contain gluten. Always check labels if you’re following a gluten-free diet.

Can I freeze stuffed zucchini boats?

Yes, stuffed zucchini boats can be frozen! After cooking, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.

Conclusion

Stuffed zucchini boats bring a burst of flavor and nutrition in a simple, yet impressive dish. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a simple weeknight meal. With endless possibilities for customization and a recipe that is straightforward and fun to make, you’ll love adding this dish to your collection of favorites. So go ahead and give these stuffed zucchini boats a try—they might just become a regular staple in your kitchen! Enjoy every bite!