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Stuffed Zucchini

A flavorful dish featuring tender zucchini stuffed with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and cheese, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights at home.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 medium medium zucchinis Fresh and firm for best texture.
  • 1 pound ground meat (beef, turkey, or halal-friendly sausage) Choose your preferred meat.
  • 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa Use your favorite grain.
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup cheese (mozzarella or parmesan), shredded For topping.
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, scoop out the flesh, leaving about 1/4 inch for the shell. You can chop the scooped-out flesh and add it to the filling if you like!
  3. In a large skillet, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sauté until softened (about 2-3 minutes). Stir in the ground meat, breaking it apart as it cooks, until fully browned. Drain any excess fat.
  4. Once the meat is cooked, add the chopped zucchini flesh, cooked rice (or quinoa), tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
  5. Carefully spoon the meat and rice mixture into the hollowed zucchini halves, packing it gently as you fill.
  6. Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the stuffed zucchinis.
  7. Place the stuffed zucchinis in a baking dish and pour 1/4 cup of water into the bottom of the dish to prevent drying. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  8. Once baked, let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Stuffed Zucchini can store well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.