Baked Stuffed Zucchini A Healthy and Delicious Recipe That Everyone Will Love
This baked stuffed zucchini recipe is a delightful and healthy alternative to deep-fried dishes, offering a fresh and flavorful combination of tender zucchini, juicy tomatoes, garlic, cheese, and perfectly baked eggs. This dish is easy to prepare, packed with nutrients, and perfect for a light lunch, dinner, or as a side dish. The creamy cheese and eggs add richness, while the fresh parsley brings a burst of flavor. Let’s get started with this no-fry, oven-baked zucchini recipe that will drive everyone crazy!
Ingredients:
For the Zucchini Base:
Zucchini: 2 medium-sized
Salt: to taste
Ground Black Pepper: to taste
Garlic Powder: to taste
Olive Oil: for greasing
For the Filling:
Tomato: 1 medium, chopped
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
Zucchini Flesh: scooped out from the zucchini
Fresh Parsley: to taste, chopped
Cheese: 100 g (3.5 oz), grated
Salt: to taste
Ground Black Pepper: to taste
Garlic Powder: to taste
Mayonnaise: 2 tablespoons
For Topping:
Eggs: 4 large
Salt: to taste
Chopped Tomatoes: a little, for topping
Grated Cheese: a little, for topping
Fresh Parsley: for sprinkling
Servings: 4 stuffed zucchini halves
Total Time: 1 hour
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Zucchini Base
Prepare the Zucchini: Start by washing 2 medium-sized zucchinis. Cut off the tops and slice each zucchini in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to carefully scoop out the flesh, creating a hollow center for the filling. Reserve the scooped-out zucchini flesh for the filling.
Season the Zucchini: Sprinkle the inside of the hollowed-out zucchinis with salt, ground black pepper, and garlic powder. Lightly brush the insides with olive oil to help the zucchini roast beautifully in the oven.
2. Prepare the Filling
Mix the Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the chopped tomato, minced garlic, and diced zucchini pulp that you set aside earlier. Add fresh chopped parsley and grated cheese.
Season the Filling: Season the mixture with salt, ground black pepper, and garlic powder to taste. Finally, add 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise and mix everything well until combined. The mayonnaise adds a creamy texture and enhances the flavor of the filling.
3. Stuff and Assemble the Zucchini
Fill the Zucchini: Spoon the prepared filling evenly into the hollowed-out zucchinis, pressing down gently to pack it in.
Add Eggs and Toppings: Crack an egg into each filled zucchini half, letting the egg sit on top of the filling. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the eggs. Add a little extra chopped tomato on top, followed by a sprinkle of grated cheese. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
4. Bake the Zucchini
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (355°F).
Bake: Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender, the eggs are cooked to your liking, and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
5. Serve
Cool Slightly and Serve: After baking, let the stuffed zucchinis cool slightly before serving. Serve them warm, garnished with additional fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy the great taste and pleasure of these healthy, oven-baked stuffed zucchinis!
Nutrition Information (Per Stuffed Zucchini Half, Based on 4 Servings)
Calories: 250 kcal
Protein: 13 g
Carbohydrates: 9 g
Dietary Fiber: 2 g
Sugars: 4 g
Total Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 6 g
Cholesterol: 215 mg
Sodium: 300 mg
Tips for Perfect Baked Stuffed Zucchini
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, herbs, and ripe tomatoes will enhance the flavor of the filling and make the dish more vibrant.
Customize Fillings: Feel free to customize the filling by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach, or substituting the cheese with your favorite variety.
Egg Cooking Time: Adjust the baking time depending on how you like your eggs—longer for a fully set yolk or shorter for a runny center.
These baked stuffed zucchinis are not only a healthier alternative to fried dishes but also a delicious and versatile meal that you can enjoy any time of the day. With their creamy, cheesy filling and perfectly baked eggs, these zucchinis are sure to impress everyone at the table. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful recipe!