Why Make This Recipe
Savory Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a great choice for anyone looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal. They are packed with nutrients and are very versatile. You can customize them based on your taste or the ingredients you have on hand. Plus, they are easy to prepare and perfect for both lunch and dinner.
How to Make Savory Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchini
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds to create boats.
- In a bowl, combine cooked quinoa, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Spoon the mixture into the hollowed-out zucchini halves.
- If desired, sprinkle cheese on top.
- Place the stuffed zucchini boats on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
How to Serve Savory Stuffed Zucchini Boats
These stuffed zucchini boats can be served warm right out of the oven. They make a great main dish or a hearty side for any meal. For a complete dinner, pair them with a simple salad or some crusty bread.
How to Store Savory Stuffed Zucchini Boats
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can be kept for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop them in the microwave or place them in the oven until heated through.
Tips to Make Savory Stuffed Zucchini Boats
- Make sure to scoop out enough of the zucchini to hold the filling but avoid breaking through the bottom.
- Feel free to add other ingredients like bell peppers, onions, or any leftover veggies.
- For extra flavor, you can add some taco seasoning or hot sauce to the filling.
Variation
You can easily change the filling depending on what you like or have available. For example, you can substitute quinoa with rice or lentils. You can also swap black beans for chickpeas or add ground meat for a non-vegetarian option.
FAQs
1. Can I prepare these zucchini boats ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and scoop out the zucchini in advance. Just assemble and bake them when you’re ready to eat.
2. What type of cheese can I use?
You can use any cheese you like! Cheddar, mozzarella, or even feta can work well.
3. Are zucchini boats gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free quinoa and double-check other ingredients for gluten content.
