Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a light and wholesome dinner made with hollowed-out zucchini filled with a savory mixture of vegetables, grains, and cheese. Baked until tender and golden, they’re a healthy and satisfying vegetarian option that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 30 minutes mins
Total Time 45 minutes mins
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchini
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 red bell pepper diced
- 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice
- 1 cup diced tomatoes canned or fresh
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese divided
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
- Cut zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out the center with a spoon, leaving a 1/4-inch shell. Reserve some of the flesh, chop it, and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, and chopped zucchini flesh. Cook 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in quinoa, diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook another 2–3 minutes until combined.
- Spoon the filling into zucchini halves. Place them in the baking dish.
- Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until zucchini is tender and cheese is melted and golden.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
You can make these zucchini boats ahead of time and bake just before serving.
For a vegan version, use dairy-free cheese.
Add beans or lentils to the filling for extra protein.
For a vegan version, use dairy-free cheese.
Add beans or lentils to the filling for extra protein.
