Stuffed Zucchini

Stuffed zucchini is a delightful dish that brings together the freshness of summer vegetables with a rich and creamy filling. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends. The combination of ricotta and sun-dried tomatoes gives it a unique flavor profile that everyone will love. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be made in either the oven or an air fryer, making it an easy option for busy cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious meal ready in no time.
• Flavorful Filling: The blend of ricotta and sun-dried tomatoes creates a mouthwatering taste that elevates simple zucchini.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Enjoy this dish baked or air-fried, giving you options based on your kitchen setup.
• Healthy and Satisfying: Packed with nutrients, stuffed zucchini is both filling and nutritious, making it a great choice for any meal.
• Impressive Presentation: These colorful zucchini boats are sure to impress your guests with their vibrant look and delicious aroma.

Tools and Preparation

To make stuffed zucchini efficiently, having the right tools is essential. Gather these items before you start cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Spoon or melon baller
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Perfect for sautéing the filling ingredients evenly, ensuring all flavors meld together beautifully.
• Baking sheet: Provides ample space for your stuffed zucchini to bake evenly without overcrowding.
• Parchment paper: Makes cleanup easier by preventing sticking and allows for hassle-free serving.

Ingredients

Stuffed zucchini is my grandma’s recipe of zucchini filled with mouthwatering ricotta and sun-dried tomato. It’s a quick and versatile meal and it works in the oven or in the air fryer.

For the Zucchini Boats

• 5 zucchini (medium-sized)

For the Filling

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 spring onions (finely chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (pressed or grated)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt (or more to taste)
• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• ¾ cup parmesan cheese (grated)
• ½ packed cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest

How to Make Stuffed Zucchini

Step 1: Prep the Zucchini

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and dry 5 zucchini.
3. Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise.
4. Scoop out the flesh using a spoon or melon baller.
5. Finely chop the scooped-out flesh and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add 3 spring onions (chopped) and 3 cloves garlic (grated); sauté for 2–3 minutes.
3. Stir in the chopped zucchini flesh, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon salt, and ⅛ teaspoon black pepper.
4. Cook for about 5 minutes until moisture evaporates.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

1. Transfer mixture to a bowl.
2. Stir in:
3. 1 cup ricotta cheese
4. ¾ cup parmesan cheese
5. ½ packed cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
6. ½ cup breadcrumbs
7. 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
8. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

1. Fill zucchini boats with stuffing mixture.
2. Place filled zucchinis on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Top with extra parmesan or mozzarella if desired.
4. Bake for 20 minutes (or air-fry at 350°F / 180°C for 12–15 minutes) until golden on top and tender-crisp.
5. Serve warm with a squeeze of lemon juice and fresh basil if you like.

With these easy steps, you’ll create delicious stuffed zucchini that can impress anyone at your table! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Stuffed Zucchini

Stuffed zucchini is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your stuffed zucchini experience.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of stuffed zucchini perfectly.

Serve with Garlic Bread

• Crispy garlic bread adds a satisfying crunch and is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from the dish.

Accompany with Marinara Sauce

• A warm marinara sauce drizzled over the top enhances the Italian flavors and adds moisture to the meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkling fresh basil or parsley on top not only adds color but also provides a fresh taste that brightens up the dish.

Add a Side of Quinoa

• Quinoa offers a nutritious addition, providing protein and fiber while balancing out the flavors of the stuffed zucchini.

How to Perfect Stuffed Zucchini

To make your stuffed zucchini truly exceptional, consider these handy tips for perfection in every bite.

• Choose Fresh Zucchini – Select firm, medium-sized zucchinis for an optimal texture and flavor. Look for ones with smooth skin and no blemishes.

• Don’t Overstuff – Fill each zucchini just enough to allow space for bubbling cheese without overflowing. This helps maintain structure and presentation.

• Mix Flavors – Experiment by adding different herbs like thyme or basil to enhance the filling’s taste. A bit of spice can also add depth.

• Bake Until Golden – Ensure you bake until your stuffed zucchini is golden on top. This creates a delightful contrast between crispy cheese and tender zucchini.

• Serve Warm – Enjoy your stuffed zucchini warm for the best flavor and texture. Reheating may lead to a loss of freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Zucchini

Adding complementary side dishes can enhance your meal even further. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside your stuffed zucchini:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic pair wonderfully, providing comfort alongside the main dish.

2. Roasted Vegetables – Colorful roasted vegetables add both nutrition and vibrant colors to your plate, enhancing visual appeal.

3. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and parmesan cheese tossed in Caesar dressing create a classic side that everyone loves.

4. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet grilled corn adds a seasonal touch, perfect for summer gatherings when serving stuffed zucchini.

5. Pasta Primavera – Lightly sautéed seasonal vegetables mixed with pasta provide a hearty yet healthy side that complements the main dish beautifully.

6. Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs offers subtle flavors that won’t overpower the main attraction while adding texture to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing stuffed zucchini, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the taste and texture of your dish.

• Under-seasoning the filling – Many people forget to season the stuffing adequately. Always taste your filling before you stuff the zucchini and adjust the salt and spices as needed.

• Not draining sun-dried tomatoes – Using oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes can lead to a soggy filling. Make sure to drain and chop them well for a better texture.

• Overcooking zucchini – If you cook the zucchini too long, they can become mushy. Aim for a tender-crisp texture by keeping a close eye on baking or air-frying times.

• Skipping the lemon zest – Lemon zest adds a bright flavor that balances the richness of the cheeses. Don’t skip this step for a more flavorful dish.

• Filling too full – Overstuffing can cause the filling to overflow during cooking. Fill each zucchini boat generously but avoid overfilling for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Stuffed Zucchini

• Wrap individual boats tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Stuffed Zucchini

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave – Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for about 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water, covering until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding stuffed zucchini that may help you perfect your dish.

How do I make stuffed zucchini vegetarian?

You can easily make stuffed zucchini vegetarian by using plant-based cheese and omitting any meat products from your filling recipe.

Can I prepare stuffed zucchini ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the filling and hollow out the zucchini in advance. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve.

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese in stuffed zucchini?

Cream cheese or cottage cheese can be excellent substitutes if you’re looking for alternatives to ricotta cheese in your stuffing.

How do I ensure my stuffed zucchini is not watery?

Ensure that all ingredients, especially sun-dried tomatoes, are well-drained and that you cook out excess moisture from your filling before stuffing.

Can I grill stuffed zucchini instead of baking?

Absolutely! Grilling adds a lovely smoky flavor. Just make sure to secure them well so they don’t fall apart on the grill.

Final Thoughts

Stuffed zucchini is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile! You can customize it with your favorite ingredients or spices. Whether you serve it as a main course or side dish, this recipe is sure to delight your family and friends. Give it a try, and enjoy all its comforting flavors!