Stuffed zucchini

Delicious Stuffed Zucchini Recipe

Stuffed zucchini is a classic dish, full of flavor and love from grandparents, combining simple ingredients with cooking techniques that bring a delicious meal to life. This recipe is not only an excellent way to use fresh zucchini, but also a versatile dish, perfect for lunches or dinners. Let's venture together into preparing these stuffed zucchinis, which are sure to delight any meal.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1 cup of rice
- 1 large onion
- 1 carrot
- 2 eggs
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 3 large tomatoes
- 3 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 500 g of pork pulp (beef or chicken can also be used, depending on preference)
- A few green onion stalks for garnish

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the zucchinis: Start by washing the zucchinis under a stream of cold water. Use a sharp knife to peel them, then, with a spoon, scoop out the flesh inside, being careful not to ruin their shape. You can keep the flesh for the filling.

2. Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, add a little olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until it becomes translucent. Add the grated carrot and continue to cook for a few minutes, stirring frequently. This step will add sweetness to your mixture.

3. Add the meat: Cut the pork pulp into small cubes and add it to the skillet. Cook until the meat is lightly browned. This will give flavor and texture to your filling. Next, add the scooped zucchini flesh. This will provide a pleasant consistency and extra nutrients to the filling.

4. The rice and spices: Add the rice to the skillet, along with a cup of water. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano. Mix well and let it simmer on low heat until the water evaporates and the rice is almost cooked. This step will ensure that the filling is full of flavors.

5. Cooling the filling: After the filling has cooked, let the mixture cool for a few minutes. Once cooled, add the beaten eggs and chopped parsley. These ingredients will bind the filling and give it a fresh flavor.

6. Fill the zucchinis: Using a spoon, fill the zucchinis with the meat and rice mixture, making sure to fill them well but not overstuffing. This is the perfect moment to add your personal touch: you can add feta cheese or chopped olives for extra flavor.

7. Preparing for the oven: Place the stuffed zucchinis in a baking dish. Slice the tomatoes and place them on top of each zucchini. Add grated cheese on top to achieve a golden and delicious crust at the end. In a bowl, mix a cup of water with a tablespoon of tomato paste and pour the mixture into the dish.

8. Baking: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for about 40 minutes. This step will allow the zucchinis to cook evenly and the filling to become juicy.

9. Serving: Once the zucchinis are ready, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly. You can garnish them with chopped green onions for a fresh and colorful appearance. Serve them warm, alongside a green salad or a side of rice.

Useful tips:

- Choose medium-sized zucchinis, as they have a more tender texture and cook evenly.
- You can also use chicken or turkey for a lighter and less fatty version.
- If you like a spicier taste, you can add a few slices of hot peppers to the filling.
- These stuffed zucchinis are delicious even cold, so you can prepare them in advance and serve them at a picnic or summer meal.

Nutritional benefits:

Zucchinis are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, being rich in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants. Combining them with lean meat and whole grain rice makes this recipe a healthy dish, full of proteins and healthy carbohydrates, ideal for a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use larger zucchinis?
Yes, but make sure to scoop them well, as the flesh can be more bitter.

2. Can I prepare this recipe without meat?
Sure, you can replace the meat with lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.

3. How can I store the stuffed zucchinis?
They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. They can be easily reheated in the oven or microwave.

This stuffed zucchini recipe is not just a tasty dish but also a way to bring family and friends together. Whether you serve it as a main course or as a side dish, stuffed zucchinis are a fantastic choice for any occasion. I encourage you to try them and discover the flavor of these delights. Enjoy your meal!