Get ready to revolutionize your dinner plate with these irresistible Baked Stuffed Zucchini Boats - a dish that's not just a meal, but a culinary adventure! Imagine tender zucchini transformed into delectable vessels overflowing with protein-packed quinoa, rich marinara sauce, and a golden, cheesy topping that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Perfect for health-conscious foodies and comfort food lovers alike, this recipe proves that nutritious eating can be incredibly delicious and exciting.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil.
- Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels. Trim off the ends and slice each zucchini lengthwise.
- Using a small spoon, carefully scoop out the inner seeds and flesh, creating a boat-like cavity. Leave about a 1/4-inch thickness of zucchini to maintain structural integrity.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, marinara sauce, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
- Season the quinoa mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Arrange the zucchini boats on the prepared baking sheet, cut side facing up.
- Generously fill each zucchini boat with the quinoa mixture, pressing gently to pack the filling.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of each stuffed zucchini boat.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set and makes the boats easier to handle.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh chopped herbs like basil or parsley before serving.
Tips
- Choose zucchinis that are medium-sized and uniform in shape for the best presentation and even cooking.
- Don't skip scooping out the seeds - this creates the perfect "boat" and prevents watery boats.
- Press the quinoa filling gently to ensure it stays compact during baking.
- Use fresh, high-quality cheese for the most flavorful result.
- Let the boats rest for 5 minutes after baking to help the filling set and make serving easier.
- For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like basil or oregano to the quinoa mixture.
- If you want a protein boost, mix in some cooked ground turkey or chicken to the filling.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg
