Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Step-by-step instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your stuffed zucchini boats:

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
Wash the zucchini and slice them in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the center flesh, leaving about 1/4-inch thick shells for the boats.
Chop the scooped-out flesh and set it aside.
In a skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant.
Stir in the sliced mushrooms and chopped zucchini flesh. Cook for approximately 3-4 minutes until the mushrooms are soft.
Add fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted (or heated through if using frozen spinach). Remove from heat.
Transfer the cooked vegetables to a bowl and let cool slightly. Once cooled, mix in the ricotta, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and oregano until well combined.
Place the zucchini halves in a baking dish and fill each boat generously with the ricotta mixture. If you wish, sprinkle some mozzarella cheese on top.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the tops are golden and the zucchini is tender.
For a finishing touch, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired, and serve warm.

Best ways to enjoy it

Stuffed zucchini boats can be served in various ways. They make a delightful main dish accompanied by a light salad, or enjoy them as a substantial side dish alongside grilled meats or seafood. For added flavor, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper can elevate its taste, or drizzle a bit of balsamic reduction for a sweet twist.

Storage and reheating tips

To keep your leftovers fresh, store any uneaten stuffed zucchini boats in an airtight container in the fridge. They will last for about 3-4 days. If you want to save some for later, these boats can also be frozen—just make sure they’re properly wrapped. To reheat, microwave individual servings or warm them in the oven until heated through.

Helpful cooking tips

Always choose zucchini that feels firm to the touch for the best texture.
To enhance flavor, consider adding fresh herbs such as basil or thyme.
If you like a little heat, include some red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
Experiment with different cheeses in the filling, such as feta or goat cheese, for a unique twist.

Creative twists

This recipe is highly adaptable, so feel free to get creative! You can swap in different vegetables like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes. For a protein boost, incorporate cooked quinoa or shredded chicken into the filling. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, try using eggplant boats instead of zucchini.

FAQs

How long does it take to prepare stuffed zucchini boats?

Preparing and cooking stuffed zucchini boats takes about 40 to 50 minutes, making it a great option for a quick dinner.

Can I make these stuffed zucchini boats vegetarian?

Absolutely! The base of this recipe is vegetarian-friendly, and you can easily adjust other ingredients to suit your diet.

How do I store leftover stuffed zucchini boats safely?

Store any leftover stuffed zucchini boats in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.