Stuffed zucchini is a delightful dish that brings together the natural flavors of fresh vegetables with a rich and creamy filling. This recipe is perfect for those who love light yet satisfying meals, and it’s a great way to enjoy zucchini without the need for frying. The combination of mushrooms, onions, garlic, and cheeses creates a savory filling that pairs beautifully with the tender zucchini. Best of all, this dish is easy to prepare and can be ready in just a few simple steps. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side dish, these stuffed zucchinis are sure to impress!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• Zucchinis (2, 300-340g): Zucchinis are the star of this dish, providing a mild, slightly sweet flavor that complements the rich filling. They’re low in calories and packed with nutrients, making them a healthy choice for any meal.
• Mushrooms (100g, finely chopped): Mushrooms add an earthy, umami flavor to the filling. They’re also a great source of vitamins and minerals, and their texture mimics that of meat, making this dish hearty and satisfying.
• Onion (1/2, finely chopped): Onions bring a slight sweetness and depth of flavor to the filling, balancing the richness of the cheese.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Garlic adds a punch of flavor, making the filling aromatic and flavorful.
• Salt (to taste): Salt enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients, ensuring the dish is well-seasoned.
• Cream Cheese (150g): Cream cheese adds a smooth, creamy texture to the filling, making it rich and indulgent.
• Cheddar Cheese (60-80g, shredded): Cheddar cheese adds a sharp, tangy flavor and helps create a melty, gooey top when the zucchinis are baked.
• Olive Oil (1-2 tablespoons): Olive oil is used for sautéing the vegetables, adding a rich, slightly fruity flavor to the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Zucchinis: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the flesh, creating a hollow space for the filling. Set the hollowed zucchinis aside.
2. Make the Filling: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the Mushrooms: Stir in the finely chopped mushrooms and continue to sauté until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes. Season with salt to taste.
4. Mix in the Cream Cheese: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the cream cheese until it’s fully melted and the mixture is well combined. This will create a rich and creamy filling.
5. Stuff the Zucchinis: Spoon the filling into the hollowed-out zucchinis, pressing it down gently to fill them completely.
6. Top with Cheddar Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the stuffed zucchinis.
7. Bake: Place the stuffed zucchinis in a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender and the cheese on top is melted and golden brown.
8. Serve: Once baked, remove the zucchinis from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy!

Tips for Success

1. Choose Fresh Zucchinis: For the best results, choose zucchinis that are firm, with smooth skin and no blemishes. Fresh zucchinis will hold their shape better during baking and provide a more pleasant texture.
2. Customize the Filling: Feel free to customize the filling to suit your taste. You can add cooked ground meat, different vegetables, or even a handful of cooked rice or quinoa for added texture and flavor.
3. Don’t Overcook the Zucchinis: Keep an eye on the baking time to ensure the zucchinis stay tender but not mushy. Overcooking can cause them to lose their shape and become too soft.
4. Make It Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed zucchinis ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This makes them a convenient option for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests.
5. Serve with a Side: These stuffed zucchinis pair well with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or a light pasta dish for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250-300
• Protein: 10g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 5g
• Sodium: 400mg

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of cheese? Yes, you can substitute the cheddar cheese with other types like mozzarella, feta, or gouda. Each will bring a different flavor profile to the dish.

2. Can I make this recipe vegan? Absolutely! You can replace the cream cheese with a vegan alternative and use dairy-free cheese for the topping. The rest of the ingredients are already plant-based.

3. Can I freeze the stuffed zucchinis? Yes, you can freeze the stuffed zucchinis before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, bake from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

4. What can I serve with stuffed zucchinis? These stuffed zucchinis are quite filling on their own, but they pair well with a side of rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them alongside grilled chicken or fish for a heartier meal.

5. Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini? Yes, this recipe works well with other hollowed-out vegetables like bell peppers, eggplants, or large tomatoes. Adjust the baking time as needed depending on the vegetable used.

Conclusion

Stuffed zucchinis are a versatile and delicious way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. By baking them instead of frying, you get a healthier dish that’s still packed with flavor. The creamy, cheesy filling is a perfect match for the tender zucchini, and the whole dish comes together with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, these stuffed zucchinis are sure to be a hit. Try this recipe today, and enjoy the compliments from your family and friends