Delicious Italian-Style Zucchini Boats Recipe

4 stars
3.97 (18)
Delicious Italian-Style Zucchini Boats Recipe
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
30 mins
Total Time:
40mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on November 08, 2023

Enjoy a flavorful and healthy meal with these Italian-style zucchini boats. Sautéed vegetables, cheese, and breadcrumbs come together to create a filling and satisfying dish. This recipe is perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking for a meatless dinner option. With only 30 minutes of preparation and cooking time, it's an easy and quick recipe to add to your weekly rotation. Serve these zucchini boats as a main dish or as a side to complement any Italian-inspired meal.

Ingredients

  • 4 medium zucchinis
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil leaves

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to carefully scoop out the seeds and flesh, leaving a hollow center for the filling.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add the bell pepper and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for another 3 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
  5. Season the vegetable mixture with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
  6. Fill each zucchini boat with the sautéed vegetable mixture, dividing it evenly among the boats.
  7. Place the filled zucchini boats on a baking sheet or in a baking dish.
  8. In a small bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and chopped fresh basil. Mix well.
  9. Sprinkle the cheese and breadcrumb mixture evenly over the zucchini boats.
  10. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
  11. Remove from the oven and let the zucchini boats cool for a few minutes before serving.
  12. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves, if desired.
  13. Serve the Italian-style zucchini boats as a main dish or as a side. Enjoy!

Interesting Facts

  • Zucchini belongs to the squash family and is technically a fruit, although often considered a vegetable in culinary contexts.
  • Zucchini is low in calories and high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a nutritious addition to any meal.
  • The word 'zucchini' comes from the Italian word 'zucchino,' which means 'small squash.'