Stuffed zucchini with vegetables and sausages

Stuffed Zucchini with Vegetables and Sausages - A Delicious and Comforting Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Servings: 4

Stuffed zucchinis are a perfect choice for a tasty dinner, easy to prepare and full of flavors. This recipe combines the soft texture of zucchinis with a savory filling of sausages and vegetables, while the tomato sauce adds a touch of freshness. What makes this recipe even more special is its versatility - you can add or substitute vegetables according to your preferences, making each dish a unique experience.

Ingredients needed

- 3 medium zucchinis
- 2 thin sausages
- 1 large onion
- 1 green bell pepper
- 4 champignon mushrooms
- 3 tablespoons of rice
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt, pepper, and paprika to taste
- 1 Knorr mushroom cube
- 1 egg

For the tomato sauce:
- 5 garlic cloves
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon gulyás paste
- 2 Knorr cubes
- Fresh dill (to taste)
- Olive oil (for sautéing)

A bit of history

The filling of vegetables and meat in zucchinis is a traditional recipe that has been prepared in various forms over generations. Whether it's a family meal or a special occasion, stuffed zucchinis are often associated with moments of conviviality and joy. They can be considered a symbol of summer when zucchinis are at their peak freshness.

Step by step: Cooking stuffed zucchinis

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients

Start by washing the zucchinis. Choose young zucchinis that have a finer texture. Cut off the ends and then cut each zucchini lengthwise into four. Using a spoon, scoop out the flesh, leaving a wall about 1 cm thick. Make sure not to destroy the structure of the zucchini, as it will need to hold the filling.

Step 2: Preparing the filling

1. In a pan, without oil, add the sliced sausages. Let them fry until golden and crispy. They will add a savory taste to the filling.
2. Add the finely chopped onion and green bell pepper, continuing to sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Follow with the cleaned and diced mushrooms, and the Knorr mushroom cube. Mix well and let everything sauté for a few minutes.
4. Add the washed rice, seasonings (salt, pepper, paprika), and chopped fresh parsley. Let the mixture cool slightly, then add the egg, mixing well until you achieve a homogeneous composition.

Step 3: Preparing the sauce

1. In another pot, add a little olive oil and sauté the pressed garlic cloves. This will release the intense flavors of the garlic.
2. Add the tomato paste, gulyás paste, and water, adjusting the amount according to the desired consistency. Mix well, then add the Knorr cubes and chopped dill, letting the sauce simmer on low heat for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Assembling the dish

1. Fill each zucchini with the filling mixture, being careful not to pack them too tightly, to allow the rice to expand during cooking.
2. Place the stuffed zucchinis in a baking dish, pouring the tomato sauce over them. Make sure each zucchini is well covered with sauce.
3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven at 180°C for 30 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and let them bake for another 10 minutes to achieve a lightly browned crust.

Useful tips

- Variations of ingredients: You can replace the sausages with ground chicken or turkey, and the mushrooms with zucchini or grated carrot for a vegetarian option.
- Serving: This dish is delicious both hot and cold. It can be served alongside a fresh salad or with a slice of crusty bread.
- Cook more servings: Stuffed zucchinis freeze very well, so you can prepare a larger quantity and keep them for days when you don’t feel like cooking.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is rich in fiber and vitamins, with fresh vegetables as the main ingredients. Zucchini is an excellent source of vitamin C, while the sausages provide essential proteins. A serving of stuffed zucchinis contains about 300 calories, making it a healthy choice for a balanced meal.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen zucchinis? While it is preferable to use fresh zucchinis for a better texture, you can use frozen zucchinis, ensuring that you thaw and drain them well before use.
2. How can I make the recipe spicier? Add a little chili pepper to the filling or use spicy sausages for an extra kick of flavor.
3. What drinks pair best with stuffed zucchinis? A dry white wine or freshly squeezed lemonade with mint will perfectly complement this dish.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to start cooking! This recipe for stuffed zucchinis with vegetables and sausages will surely bring a smile to your loved ones' faces. Enjoy your meal!