Delicious Stuffed Zucchini with Ricotta Filling

Imagine sinking your fork into tender zucchini boats filled with a creamy, rich ricotta blend. This stuffed zucchini recipe not only satisfies cravings but also makes for a vibrant, healthy dish. Perfect for summertime when zucchini is abundant, it’s a versatile recipe that can be served as a delightful appetizer or a light main course.

This recipe showcases a delightful combination of flavors and textures, where the mild taste of zucchini complements the creamy, slightly tangy ricotta filling. Add a sprinkle of herbs, and you have a dish that’s bursting with freshness. It’s a fantastic way to impress guests or simply treat yourself to something special.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow. It’s not just about the taste; it’s about creating a dish that looks gorgeous on your table.

Irresistibly Creamy Ricotta Stuffed Zucchini

Stuffed zucchini is a delightful dish that showcases the abundant flavors of summer produce. Starting with tender zucchinis, each boat is filled with a savory blend of creamy ricotta and a mix of aromatic herbs.

This recipe promises not only a satisfying taste but also a stunning visual appeal. The golden, melted cheese atop the zucchini creates a beautiful contrast against the vibrant green of the vegetable.

Ingredients for a Flavorful Filling

The primary components of this dish include the star ingredient, zucchini, along with rich ricotta, savory Parmesan, and gooey mozzarella. These cheeses blend together to provide a creamy texture that fills each bite with flavor.

To enhance the taste, garlic and Italian seasoning are mixed into the filling, adding depth and character. Fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, are perfect for garnishing and amplifying the freshness of the dish.

Preparation Steps for an Easy Cook

Preparing stuffed zucchini is straightforward and doesn’t require advanced culinary skills. Start by preheating the oven and prepping the zucchinis to create the perfect boats for your delicious filling.

After mixing the ricotta and other ingredients, generously spoon the mixture into the zucchini halves. A drizzle of olive oil over the top adds richness and helps achieve that coveted golden color during baking.

Cooking to Perfection

Once the zucchinis are filled, they are covered and baked to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Removing the cover for the last few minutes intensifies the browning, resulting in a bubbly, inviting cheese topping.

This baking method not only enhances the taste but also transforms the dish into a gorgeous centerpiece when served. The aroma that fills the kitchen during baking is simply irresistible.

Serving Suggestions and Pairing

These stuffed zucchini boats can be served as a main dish or a captivating appetizer. Pair them with a crisp salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

For an added touch, a light drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs right before serving can elevate the presentation. This dish is sure to impress at gatherings, bringing both beauty and flavor to the table.

Nutritional Benefits of Zucchini

Zucchini is not only low in calories but also packed with essential nutrients. This makes stuffed zucchini a healthy choice for a filling meal without compromising on taste.

The ricotta filling adds protein and calcium, contributing to a well-balanced dish. Enjoying this recipe is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while savoring a rich, creamy flavor.

Ingredients

• 4 medium zucchinis
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
• Olive oil for drizzling

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds to create boats.
2. In a medium bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Spoon the ricotta mixture into the hollowed zucchinis, filling them generously.
4. Place the stuffed zucchinis in a baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the tops are golden and bubbly.
6. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 4
• Calories: 220 kcal
• Fat: 14g
• Protein: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 8g