Stuffed Zucchini

Stuffed zucchini is a delightful dish that combines fresh vegetables with rich, creamy flavors. This recipe showcases zucchini filled with savory ricotta and sun-dried tomatoes, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a quick weeknight solution, stuffed zucchini is sure to impress. It’s versatile enough to be cooked in the oven or air fryer, catering to your cooking preferences while offering a delicious and satisfying bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed: The combination of ricotta cheese and sun-dried tomatoes creates a rich filling that brings the zucchini to life.
• Versatile cooking methods: Enjoy this dish baked in the oven or air-fried for a quicker option without sacrificing taste.
• Healthy option: Packed with vegetables and nutritious ingredients, stuffed zucchini is a wholesome choice for lunch or dinner.
• Easy preparation: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe is easy to make even for beginner cooks.
• Great for meal prep: Stuffed zucchini can be made ahead of time and stored, making it a convenient meal option for busy days.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools and prepare your kitchen for cooking. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for evenly baking your stuffed zucchini without sticking.
• Parchment paper: Helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier after baking.
• Large skillet: Allows you to sauté ingredients comfortably without overcrowding.
• Mixing bowl: Provides space to combine all filling ingredients efficiently.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious stuffed zucchinis:

For the Zucchini

• 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

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and dry your medium-sized zucchinis thoroughly. Slice them in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh using a spoon or melon baller. Finely chop the scooped-out flesh and set it aside for later use.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped spring onions and pressed garlic; sauté them together for about 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the chopped zucchini flesh along with 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ⅛ teaspoon of black pepper. Cook this mixture for about 5 minutes until most moisture has evaporated.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

Transfer the sautéed mixture into a mixing bowl. Add in 1 cup of ricotta cheese, ¾ cup of grated parmesan cheese, ½ packed cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes, ½ cup of breadcrumbs, and 1 teaspoon of grated lemon zest. Mix everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Fill each zucchini boat generously with the prepared stuffing. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet for easy handling. If desired, sprinkle extra parmesan or mozzarella on top. Bake in your preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or air-fry at 350°F (180°C) for approximately 12–15 minutes until golden on top and tender-crisp. Serve warm with a squeeze of lemon juice and fresh basil if you like!

How to Serve Stuffed Zucchini

Stuffed zucchini is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a light meal or a side dish, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

As a Main Course

• Pair with a fresh salad – A simple green salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the stuffed zucchini perfectly.
• Serve alongside grilled chicken – The flavors of grilled chicken enhance the dish, making it a hearty meal.

With Sauces

• Drizzle with pesto – A touch of homemade or store-bought pesto adds an aromatic flavor.
• Add marinara sauce – A rich marinara sauce brings an Italian flair and moisture to each bite.

For Extra Flavor

• Garnish with fresh herbs – Sprinkling chopped basil or parsley gives the dish a fresh finish.
• Squeeze lemon juice – A dash of lemon juice brightens the flavors and adds a zesty touch.

How to Perfect Stuffed Zucchini

To achieve the best results with stuffed zucchini, keep these helpful tips in mind while preparing your recipe.

• Choose fresh zucchini – Look for firm and shiny zucchini. Fresh vegetables provide better texture and flavor.
• Don’t overfill – Leave some space when filling to prevent overflow during baking, ensuring even cooking.
• Use quality cheeses – Opting for high-quality ricotta and parmesan enhances the overall taste of the stuffing.
• Season well – Taste your filling before stuffing. Adjust salt and pepper to elevate flavors as needed.
• Experiment with fillings – Try adding different ingredients like cooked quinoa or ground meat for variation.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Zucchini

Stuffed zucchini pairs well with many side dishes that can balance its rich flavors. Here are some top suggestions:

1. Garlic Bread – Crunchy, buttery garlic bread complements the softness of stuffed zucchini perfectly.
2. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provide a refreshing contrast to the warm dish.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients to your plate.
4. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing adds protein and fiber while keeping it healthy.
5. Rice Pilaf – Flavored rice pilaf rounds out the meal with its savory notes and fluffy texture.
6. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and zest that balances the creamy stuffed zucchini nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making stuffed zucchini can be easy, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Not scooping enough flesh – Be sure to scoop out enough of the zucchini flesh so that there’s ample space for the delicious filling. This will ensure a perfect balance of flavors.
• Skipping seasoning – Don’t forget to season your filling well. Adding salt and herbs enhances the flavor dramatically and prevents blandness.
• Overstuffing the zucchini – Avoid overfilling your zucchini boats. Leaving a little space allows for even cooking and prevents spills during baking or air frying.
• Ignoring cook times – Cooking times can vary based on your oven or air fryer. Keep an eye on them to ensure they reach a golden, tender state without burning.
• Using stale bread crumbs – Fresh bread crumbs work best for texture and taste. Stale crumbs can lead to a dry filling that lacks flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover stuffed zucchini in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Stuffed Zucchini

• Wrap each stuffed zucchini individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Stuffed Zucchini

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place zucchini on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place one stuffed zucchini on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop – Use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water and cover until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making stuffed zucchini, here are some common ones answered.

What are some variations of Stuffed Zucchini?

You can customize your stuffed zucchini by adding different vegetables, proteins like ground meat, or using different cheeses such as feta or goat cheese for added flavor.

Can I make stuffed zucchini ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffing and hollow out the zucchini a day in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

How can I make stuffed zucchini vegetarian?

Simply omit any meat from the filling and add more vegetables or legumes like black beans or lentils for protein.

What should I serve with Stuffed Zucchini?

Stuffed zucchini pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or even quinoa for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Stuffed zucchini is an amazing dish that brings comfort and flexibility to your table. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, allowing you to customize it according to your tastes. Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or a side, this recipe is sure to impress!