Description
Mediterranean stuffed zucchini boats are vibrant vegetarian zucchini halves filled with a flavorful blend of cherry tomatoes, feta, olives, garlic, herbs, and olive oil—perfect as a light main or impressive side.
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchini (8–10 in long)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ½ cup pitted Kalamata olives, chopped
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for filling), plus extra for drizzling
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp ground cumin (optional)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
- Slice zucchini lengthwise and scoop out the flesh, leaving a ¼‑inch shell. Reserve the flesh.
- Place zucchini boats on the baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened (3–4 minutes).
- Chop reserved zucchini flesh and add to the skillet. Cook 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Add tomatoes and olives, season with salt and pepper, and cook for another 5 minutes until tomatoes begin to soften.
- Remove from heat and stir in feta, oregano, cumin (if using), parsley, basil, lemon zest, and half the lemon juice.
- Spoon filling into zucchini boats and gently press. Optionally sprinkle breadcrumbs on top and drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until zucchini is tender and topping is golden.
- Once baked, rest a few minutes. Drizzle with remaining lemon juice, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve.
Notes
- Prep zucchini ahead—hollow out earlier for quicker assembly.
- Make it vegan by using plant-based cheese or omitting it entirely, with nutritional yeast as a substitute.
- Add cooked grains like quinoa or couscous to the filling for more substance.
- Include other veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or corn for extra color and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Category: Main or Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
