Stuffed Zucchini

Stuffed Zucchini – A Delicacy for Any Dish

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 10 servings

Stuffed zucchini is a savory and versatile recipe that combines the fresh aroma of vegetables with a touch of creativity. This traditional method of preparing zucchini adds a special note to any dish, from stews to casseroles. In this recipe, I will show you step by step how to achieve delicious and aromatic zucchini that can be used in various meals.

A Little Story about Zucchini

Zucchini is an extremely versatile vegetable that can be cooked in countless ways, from frying to baking, boiling, or even pickling. They are known for their low calorie content and richness in nutrients, including vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. In many cultures, zucchini is considered a symbol of summer, being harvested fresh and used in various seasonal recipes. Preparing stuffed zucchini is a wonderful way to preserve the flavors of summer for the colder months.

Necessary Ingredients

- 10 medium zucchinis
- 1 jar of tomato sauce (about 400 ml)
- 3 bunches of fresh tarragon
- 1 large head of garlic
- Water
- Salt (for blanching)

Preparing the Ingredients

1. Zucchini: Choose fresh zucchinis with a firm texture and uniform color. Avoid scratched or spotted zucchinis. Peel them and cut off the ends.
2. Tarragon: Ensure that the tarragon is fresh and green. It will add an irresistible aroma to the dish. Wash it under cold running water and chop it finely.
3. Garlic: Peel the head of garlic and slice it thinly. Garlic will provide an intense flavor to the zucchini.

Step by Step – Preparing Stuffed Zucchini

1. Blanching the Zucchini: In a large pot, add water and a tablespoon of salt. Bring the water to a boil. Add the peeled zucchinis and let them boil for 2-3 minutes. This step helps to homogenize the texture and flavors.

2. Draining the Zucchini: After boiling, drain the zucchinis in a colander and let them cool slightly. Then, make a long cut in each zucchini, but without cutting all the way through, so as to create a sort of "pocket" for the filling.

3. Filling the Zucchini: In each cut, insert 1-2 slices of garlic and a little chopped tarragon. This will add a deep flavor and delicious taste. Repeat the process for all the zucchinis.

4. Packing the Zucchini: Place the zucchinis in a sterilized jar. If there are any leftover zucchinis after filling, slice them and add them to the jar. They will be just as delicious!

5. Adding the Tomato Sauce: Pour the tomato sauce over the zucchinis, ensuring they are completely covered. The sauce will enrich the flavor and help preserve the vegetables.

6. Boiling the Jars: Line a pot with newspapers to prevent the jars from breaking during boiling. Wrap each jar of zucchini in newspaper and place them in the pot. Add water halfway up the jars. Put the pot on low heat and let it boil for one hour.

Serving and Recommendations

Stuffed zucchini is particularly delicious as a side dish for meat or fish dishes. They can also be added to stews or casseroles, where their flavors blend perfectly with those of other vegetables. Additionally, you can serve them alongside a fresh salad to balance the intense taste.

Variations and Tips

- Spices: Experiment with different herbs, such as basil or dill, to vary the flavors.
- Fillings: You can add feta cheese or parmesan between the slices of zucchini for an extra flavor boost.
- Preservation: Stuffed zucchini keeps well in jars, and once opened, they should be consumed within 3-4 days.

Nutritional Benefits

Zucchini is low in calories (about 17 calories per 100 g), making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain their weight. They also contain antioxidants, which help combat inflammation and support overall health.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen zucchini? It is recommended to use fresh zucchini for optimal flavor and texture, but if you have frozen zucchini, make sure they are well drained before using.
2. Can I add other vegetables to the jar? Yes, you can add carrots, bell peppers, or onions, but ensure that all vegetables have a similar cooking time.
3. What is the best way to consume stuffed zucchini? You can use them in hot dishes or in cold salads, adding balsamic vinegar or olive oil for extra flavor.

With this stuffed zucchini recipe, you will manage to bring a touch of summer to your table, regardless of the season. Try it, and you will discover how easy and delicious it can be to enjoy seasonal vegetables! Bon appétit!