Mediterranean Stuffed Zucchini Boats with Herby Crumbs

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever fancy a bit of Greece without the airfare? Honestly , Stuffed Zucchini Boats are your ticket! These are bursting with Mediterranean flavours. They are both comforting and kinda fancy, you know?

Brief Overview

Originating from Mediterranean cuisine, these Filled Zucchini are a celebration of fresh ingredients. This recipe is moderately easy, taking about 1 hour to complete.

It will make 4 servings, enough for a family dinner.

Main Benefits

Zucchini is low in calories and rich in vitamins. These Stuffed Zucchini are perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal.

I reckon this recipe is special because it brings the taste of the Greek islands straight to your kitchen.

Let's Talk About Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Think of Stuffed Zucchini Boats as a warm hug on a plate. This Mediterranean zucchini recipe is more than just a meal.

This baked zucchini dish is a flavour adventure! It is honestly my go-to for using up summer squash recipes from the garden.

We're making Loaded Zucchini Boats stuffed with ground lamb, tangy tomatoes, and salty feta. The aroma alone is enough to transport you to a sunny taverna. It seriously is.

What Makes This Recipe Tick?

The magic lies in the balance of flavours. The savoury ground lamb recipes paired with the fresh herbs and the creamy feta. It's a proper flavour explosion.

And let's not forget the herby breadcrumb topping! It adds a satisfying crunch that honestly takes these Best Stuffed Zucchini Boats to the next level.

These are not just Stuffed Zucchini ; they're a delicious experience.

What You Need To Cook Best Stuffed Zucchini Boats

You will need some lovely zucchini and the stuffing elements. Don't fret. I'll list the ingredients to cook delicious Best Stuffed Zucchini Boats so you can nail this on the first go.

Ingredients & Equipment for Bangin' Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Alright, let's talk shopping! Getting the right bits and bobs is key for killer Stuffed Zucchini Boats . Honestly, the fresher the ingredients, the better the flavour. No soggy zucchinis allowed!.

Main Ingredients: The Starry Lineup

Here’s what you need for my Mediterranean Zucchini Recipe :

• 4 medium zucchini (about 8 inches/20 cm each). Look for firm, unblemished zucchini, yeah?
• 1 tablespoon olive oil ( 15 ml )
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (about 1/2 cup )
• 2 cloves garlic, minced. Go on, chuck in an extra clove if you're feeling spicy!
• 1/2 pound ground lamb ( 225 g ). Quality is key here, folks. Find yourself some proper free range lamb!
• 1 can diced tomatoes ( 14.5 ounces/411g ). Don’t drain them! That juice is flavour gold.
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped (about 1/4 cup ). Get the ones in brine, not oil.
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese ( 30g ). Salty, tangy goodness.
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano (or 1 teaspoon dried). Fresh is best but dried works in a pinch.
• Salt and black pepper to taste. Seasoning is everything, innit?

Seasoning Notes: Flavour Town

Don't skimp on the herbs! Fresh oregano is amazing. It elevates baked zucchini dishes to another level. If you're stuck, dried oregano will do, just use less.

Garlic powder in the herby crumbs? Absolute game changer. Trust me. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a cheeky kick.

And always, always taste and adjust the seasoning!

For the ground lamb recipes , a little cumin or coriander can add a warm, earthy depth. Try a squeeze of lemon juice at the end to brighten everything up.

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple

You don’t need a fancy kitchen to make these best stuffed zucchini boats . Here's what I reckon is essential:

• A baking dish (about 9x13 inches ) Something oven proof, obviously.
• A large skillet. For browning the lamb, innit?
• A small bowl. For the herby crumbs.
• A melon baller or spoon for hollowing out the zucchini. A teaspoon works, but it's a faff.
• Chopping board and chef's knife. Obvious, really.

Right then, let's get cooking these loaded zucchini boats .

Alright, let's talk Stuffed Zucchini Boats . I've made so many of these over the years, honestly, they’re practically a summer staple in my kitchen.

They are definitely the Best Stuffed Zucchini Boats . Perfect for using up all those garden summer squash recipes . Trust me, once you nail this, you’ll be making them all the time.

You can adapt the recipe easily using different Zucchini boat variations .

Cooking Mediterranean Stuffed Zucchini Boats

This recipe is for Mediterranean zucchini recipe , using a tasty mix of ground lamb and feta. It's hearty, flavourful, and pretty darn good for you.

You'll have delicious Baked zucchini dishes .

Prep Steps: Mise en Place is Your Friend

Right, before you even think about turning on the hob, get everything prepped. I cannot stress this enough! Chop your onion, mince your garlic, get your herbs ready, and measure out all your ingredients.

This is essential mise en place. It’ll save you a heap of time and stress later. Trust me, been there, done that, nearly set the kitchen on fire because I was faffing around.

step-by-step: Boat Building Time!

1. Prep the Zucchini: Cut 4 medium zucchini in half lengthwise. Scoop out the insides, leaving a 1/4 inch border . Salt the zucchini halves.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Sauté 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves in 1 tablespoon olive oil until softened.
3. Brown the Lamb: Brown 1/2 pound ground lamb in the skillet. Drain the grease!
4. Simmer Filling: Add 1 can diced tomatoes , 1/2 cup chopped Kalamata olives , 1 tablespoon chopped oregano , salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes . Stir in 1/4 cup feta cheese .
5. Make Crumbs: Combine 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs , 2 tablespoons olive oil , 2 tablespoons chopped parsley , 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese , and 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder .
6. Stuff and Top: Spoon the lamb mixture into the zucchini halves. Sprinkle with breadcrumbs.
7. Bake: Bake at 375° F ( 190° C) for 30- 35 minutes , until zucchini is tender.

Pro Tips for Epic Loaded Zucchini Boats

Firstly, don’t overcrowd the pan! Give those Stuffed Zucchini boats some space to breathe, yeah? They'll cook more evenly. Secondly, taste as you go! Seasoning is key.

Before you stuff the zucchinis, taste the filling and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. You can also make the filling ahead of time.

Honestly, I do it all the time when I’m short on time during the week. It makes life so much easier when you’re just trying to chuck something healthy and delicious on the table.

These Filled Zucchini are truly easy to make!

Alright, so you've nailed the Stuffed Zucchini Boats , and you're probably thinking, "Right, what now?". Here’s how to make 'em shine, store 'em like a pro, and even tweak 'em to fit your picky eater cousin's dietary needs.

I have made a big batch of these Best Stuffed Zucchini Boats for a casual party I hosted last week.

Recipe Notes: Ace Your Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Serving Suggestions: Plating Like a Pro

Listen, it’s all about the presentation, innit? For these Loaded Zucchini Boats , think Mediterranean chic. A splodge of Greek yogurt or a dollop of tzatziki adds a creamy coolness.

Honestly, a side of crusty bread for mopping up all those juicy bits is a must. And a nice Greek salad? Sorted! It's all about making these Stuffed Zucchini feel like a proper meal.

Storage Tips: Keep 'Em Fresh

Right, so you've got leftovers. No worries.

• Refrigeration: Pop those Filled Zucchini into an airtight container and they’ll be grand in the fridge for 3-4 days .
• Freezing: If you want to freeze, let them cool completely first. I'd suggest freezing them before baking for best results. Wrap them well in cling film, then foil. They'll be good for up to 2 months .
• Reheating: For fridge leftovers, a quick blast in the microwave or oven will do the trick. If frozen, thaw them in the fridge overnight, then bake until heated through. Just make sure they’re piping hot.

Zucchini Boat Variations: Mix It Up!

Fancy a change? This Mediterranean zucchini recipe is versatile.

• Dietary Adaptations: Go veggie by swapping the lamb for cooked quinoa or lentils. Easy peasy!
• Seasonal Swaps: If zucchini's not in season, try using other summer squash recipes like patty pans. They work a treat.

Nutrition Basics: Goodness in a Boat

Each serving of these Baked zucchini dishes is roughly 350 calories. You get a good hit of protein (25g), moderate fats (20g), and some carbs (15g).

Plus, the tomatoes are packed with vitamins. It's a pretty balanced meal, if you ask me! You could also try other Ground lamb recipes .

Right then, go forth and get stuffing! I have really enjoyed the recipe of Stuffed Zucchini Boats ; they are easier than you think, and dead tasty.

Don't be afraid to experiment and make them your own. You've got this!