Stuffed zucchini

Stuffed Zucchini with Ground Meat – A Savory and Comforting Recipe

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of Servings: 4

Discover the charm of stuffed zucchini, a unique recipe that combines the delicate flavor of vegetables with the rich texture of ground meat. This recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of nostalgia, reminding you of family meals from childhood when every ingredient was carefully chosen, and cooking was an art and a joy.

Basic Ingredients:

- 5 medium-sized zucchinis (choose zucchinis that are slightly less watery, as they will be easier to stuff and maintain a pleasant texture)
- 500 g ground meat (you can use beef, pork, or a combination, depending on your preferences)
- 1 large onion (the onion adds sweetness and depth to the filling)
- 3-4 ripe tomatoes (fresh tomatoes provide a vibrant taste, but you can also use canned tomatoes in the colder season)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t forget that these spices are essential to highlight the flavors)

Preparation Techniques:

1. Preparing the zucchinis: Wash the zucchinis well and cut them in half horizontally. Use a spoon to scoop out the flesh, being careful not to pierce the skin. These "shells" will become the perfect containers for the filling.

2. The filling: Start by finely chopping the onion and the flesh scooped out from the zucchinis. Heat a pan over medium heat and add a little oil to sauté the onion. Sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the finely chopped zucchini flesh and continue to cook for another 5 minutes, stirring constantly.

3. Adding the meat: In the same pan, add the ground meat. Give it time to brown slightly, stirring occasionally. This step is essential to develop a rich flavor in the filling. Once the meat is cooked, add the diced tomatoes. Let the mixture simmer on low heat until the tomato juice reduces, about 10-15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Stuffing the zucchinis: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Use a spoon to fill the zucchini shells with the meat mixture. Place them in a baking dish, and top with slices of fresh tomatoes for added color and flavor. Drizzle everything with a splash of olive oil and add a cup of water to the dish to maintain moisture.

5. Baking: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake the zucchinis for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and let them brown nicely for another 30 minutes.

Serving: Stuffed zucchinis are delicious both warm and at room temperature. You can serve them with a fresh green salad or basmati rice to complete the meal. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley on top adds a touch of freshness and color.

Practical Tips:

- Choosing zucchinis: Look for zucchinis with smooth and firm skin. Avoid those with spots or that are soft.
- Variations of the filling: You can add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even feta cheese to the filling for a different flavor. A vegetarian option can include quinoa or rice instead of meat.
- Maintaining moisture: If the zucchinis are very large, you risk the filling becoming dry. Adding water to the dish, as mentioned above, will help maintain a moist environment during baking.

Nutritional Information: This recipe is an excellent source of protein and fiber, thanks to the combination of meat and zucchinis. Additionally, tomatoes provide an important intake of antioxidants and vitamins. Each serving has approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the type of meat used.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I use another type of meat? Yes, you can experiment with chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
- Is it possible to make stuffed zucchinis in advance? Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day ahead and stuff the zucchinis before baking them.
- What are the best spices for this recipe? Besides salt and pepper, you can add dried basil or oregano for an extra flavor boost.

Try this stuffed zucchini with ground meat recipe, perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. With every bite, you will feel the warmth and love that is in every ingredient. Enjoy!