Stuffed Zucchini
Servings: 10 boats (2 per serving)
- 5 (5) zucchini medium-sized
- 1 tablespoon (1 tablespoon) olive oil
- 3 (3) spring onions finely chopped
- 3 cloves (3 cloves) garlic pressed or grated
- 1 teaspoon (1 teaspoon) dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon (1 teaspoon) salt or more to taste
- ⅛ teaspoon (⅛ teaspoon) black pepper
- 1 cup (250 grams) ricotta cheese
- ¾ cup (60 grams) parmesan cheese grated
- ½ packed cup (90 grams) sun-dried tomatoes chopped
- ½ cup (70 grams) breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon (1 teaspoon) grated lemon zest
- Prep the Zucchini – Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and dry 5 zucchini, slice in half lengthwise, and scoop out the flesh with a spoon or melon baller. Finely chop the scooped-out flesh and set aside.
- Cook the Filling – In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add 3 spring onions (chopped) and 3 cloves garlic (grated); sauté for 2–3 minutes. Stir in the chopped zucchini flesh, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon salt, and ⅛ teaspoon black pepper. Cook about 5 minutes until the moisture evaporates.
- Mix the filling – Transfer mixture to a bowl. Stir in 1 cup ricotta cheese, ¾ cup parmesan cheese, ½ packed cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped), ½ cup breadcrumbs, and 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble and Bake – Fill zucchini boats with the stuffing and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Top with extra parmesan or mozzarella if desired. Bake for 20 minutes (or air-fry at 350°F / 180°C for 12–15 minutes) until golden on top and tender-crisp. Serve warm with a squeeze of lemon juice and fresh basil, if you like.
SUBSTITUTIONS
- Zucchini –> eggplant.
- Olive oil –> vegetable oil.
- Green onions –> one small onion or shallot.
- Oregano –> dried mint, parsley, thyme, or basil.
- Ricotta cheese –> vegan ricotta.
- Parmesan cheese –> vegan parmesan cheese.
- Breadcrumbs –> gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Sun-dried tomatoes –> olives or chopped marinated artichoke hearts.
- Zucchini size – Go for medium-sized as they are easier to stuff and hold their shape better.
- Use the flesh – It adds flavor and moisture to the filling, but make sure to sauté it first to remove excess water.
- Filling shouldn’t be too wet – That’s why we add a bit of breadcrumbs. Add more if you think it’s necessary.
- Cheese mix – We recommend ricotta for creaminess and parmesan for umami and savory taste. Feel free to swap pecorino, shredded mozzarella, or feta. Vegan? Use non-dairy ricotta and cheese.
