Stuffed Zucchini Surprise is a delicious and versatile dish that allows you to get creative with the filling. Here’s a basic recipe for stuffed zucchini, but feel free to customize it based on your preferences:
Ingredients:
- 4 medium-sized zucchini
- 1 pound ground meat (beef, turkey, chicken, or a meat substitute for a vegetarian option)
- 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite melting cheese)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise, and scoop out the seeds and flesh, leaving about a 1/4-inch border. Set aside the hollowed zucchini halves.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened.
- Add the ground meat to the skillet and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
- Stir in the diced bell pepper and tomatoes, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Remove the skillet from heat and mix in the cooked rice or quinoa.
- Place the hollowed zucchini halves in a baking dish. Spoon the meat and vegetable mixture into each zucchini half, pressing it down slightly.
- Top each stuffed zucchini with shredded cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
- Serve the stuffed zucchini hot, and enjoy your delicious Stuffed Zucchini Surprise!
Feel free to experiment with different ingredients for the filling, such as mushrooms, black beans, corn, or your favorite herbs and spices.
