Stuffed Zucchini

Published: June 29, 2025

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation – Stuffed zucchini can be ready in just under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthy Ingredients – Packed with veggies and lean proteins, this dish is both nutritious and filling.
Versatile Cooking Methods – Enjoy this recipe baked or air-fried, giving you options based on your kitchen setup.
Flavorful Filling – The combination of ricotta, parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes provides a burst of flavor in every bite.
Great for Meal Prep – Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make stuffed zucchini efficiently, having the right tools at hand is essential. Here are some items that will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Skillet
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Spoon or melon baller
Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

Skillet – Ideal for sautéing vegetables quickly to develop flavors before mixing them into the filling.
Baking sheet – Ensures even cooking while providing ample space to arrange your stuffed zucchini boats.
Parchment paper – Helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze after baking.

Ingredients

For the Stuffing

5 zucchini (medium-sized)
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 spring onions (finely chopped)
3 cloves garlic (pressed or grated)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt (or more to taste)
⅛ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup ricotta cheese
¾ cup parmesan cheese (grated)
½ packed cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon grated lemon zest

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Stuffed Zucchini

Step 1: Prep the Zucchini

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Wash and dry 5 medium-sized zucchinis.
Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise.
Scoop out the flesh using a spoon or melon baller. Finely chop this flesh and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
Add 3 finely chopped spring onions and 3 grated cloves of garlic; sauté for 2–3 minutes.
Incorporate the chopped zucchini flesh along with 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ⅛ teaspoon of black pepper.
Cook for about 5 minutes until most moisture evaporates.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

Transfer the mixture from the skillet into a mixing bowl.
Stir in 1 cup of ricotta cheese, ¾ cup of grated parmesan cheese, ½ packed cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and ½ cup of breadcrumbs.
Add in 1 teaspoon of grated lemon zest and mix until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Fill each zucchini boat with the stuffing mixture generously.
Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet for easy handling.
If desired, top with extra parmesan or mozzarella cheese.
Bake for about 20 minutes or air-fry at 350°F (180°C) for approximately 12–15 minutes until golden on top and tender-crisp.
Serve warm with a squeeze of lemon juice and fresh basil if desired.

Enjoy your homemade stuffed zucchini as a delightful main course or side dish!

How to Serve Stuffed Zucchini

Stuffed zucchini is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a light meal or a hearty side, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your stuffed zucchini experience.

As a Main Course

Pair with Salad – Serve your stuffed zucchini alongside a fresh garden salad for a light and refreshing meal.
Add Garlic Bread – Enjoy with warm garlic bread to soak up any delicious juices from the zucchinis.
Include Quinoa – A side of quinoa adds protein and makes the dish more filling while complementing the flavors.

As a Snack

Cut into Slices – Slice the stuffed zucchini into bite-sized pieces for an easy appetizer or snack option.
Serve with Dipping Sauce – Pair with marinara or yogurt sauce for added flavor and enjoyment.

On a Buffet Table

Make it Finger Food – Serve mini stuffed zucchinis at parties, allowing guests to enjoy them as finger food.
Create a Veggie Platter – Include stuffed zucchini in a larger veggie platter with hummus and assorted dips for variety.

How to Perfect Stuffed Zucchini

To make your stuffed zucchini even more delicious, try these helpful tips. They will ensure that each bite is bursting with flavor and texture.

Bold Preparation of Zucchini – Always wash and dry your zucchinis thoroughly before cutting. This helps maintain their freshness and flavor.
Bold Flavor Enhancements – Experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme to add unique flavors to your filling.
Bold Cheese Options – Mix in different cheeses such as feta or goat cheese for added creaminess and tanginess.
Bold Cooking Time Adjustments – Monitor the cooking time closely; every oven varies. Ensure they are golden on top but not overcooked.
Bold Serving Temperature – Serve warm for the best taste, but they can also be enjoyed at room temperature for casual gatherings.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Zucchini

When serving stuffed zucchini, consider pairing it with complementary side dishes that enhance the overall meal. Here are some great options:

Bold Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables brings color and nutrition to your plate.
Bold Couscous Salad – A light couscous salad with lemon and herbs can balance the richness of the stuffing.
Bold Greek Yogurt Dip – A cool yogurt dip adds creaminess and tang, perfect for dipping pieces of zucchini.
Bold Steamed Green Beans – Simple steamed green beans offer a fresh crunch that pairs nicely with stuffed zucchini.
Bold Tomato Soup – A warm bowl of tomato soup provides a comforting contrast to the savory zucchini boats.
Bold Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes add heartiness to your meal, making it even more satisfying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Stuffed zucchini can be a delightful dish, but small mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common pitfalls to watch for.

Skipping the Zucchini Prep – Not properly prepping the zucchini can lead to watery filling. Always scoop out enough flesh to create space for the stuffing and ensure it cooks evenly.
Overcooking the Filling – Cooking the filling too long can dry it out. Aim for a tender mix that retains moisture, ensuring a flavorful and juicy result.
Ignoring Seasoning – Under-seasoned stuffed zucchini can taste bland. Don’t forget to taste your filling and adjust salt and spices before stuffing.
Not Using Enough Cheese – Cheese adds richness and flavor. Make sure to use the recommended amounts of ricotta and parmesan; feel free to add more if you love cheesy goodness!
Filling Too Generously – Overstuffing zucchini boats can cause them to overflow. Fill generously but leave some space for expansion during cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Duration – Stuffed zucchini can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Containers – Use airtight containers to keep them fresh longer.

Freezing Stuffed Zucchini

Duration – You can freeze stuffed zucchini for up to 2 months.
Containers – Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.

Reheating Stuffed Zucchini

Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the stuffed zucchini on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Microwave – Place the stuffed zucchini on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking periodically until hot.
Stovetop – For stovetop reheating, heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water, cover, and steam the zucchini gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Stuffed Zucchini?

Stuffed zucchini is a dish made by hollowing out zucchini halves and filling them with various ingredients like cheese, vegetables, or meats. It’s versatile and can be tailored to your taste!

Can I Use Other Vegetables Besides Zucchini?

Absolutely! While this recipe focuses on stuffed zucchini, you can use bell peppers, eggplants, or even large mushrooms as alternatives for stuffing.

How Do I Customize Stuffed Zucchini?

You can customize stuffed zucchini by adding ingredients like cooked ground meat, herbs, or different types of cheese. Feel free to experiment based on what you have at home!

Is Stuffed Zucchini Healthy?

Yes! This dish is packed with nutrients from vegetables and offers protein from cheese. It makes for a healthy meal option that is low in calories yet satisfying.

Final Thoughts

Stuffed zucchini is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making it perfect for any meal occasion. With its combination of flavors from ricotta and sun-dried tomatoes, this dish is sure to please everyone at your table. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients! Enjoy creating your own version of this fantastic recipe!