Stuffed zucchini

Delicious stuffed zucchini recipe: a perfect combination of flavor and texture

Stuffed zucchinis are a dish that brings a touch of spring to any meal. This recipe will not only delight your taste buds but will also add a splash of color and health to your plate. The zucchinis, with their fine texture, are perfect for being filled with a delicious combination of meat, vegetables, and aromatic spices. Moreover, it is an easy-to-make recipe, ideal for both family meals and special occasions.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 5

Necessary ingredients:
- 5 medium zucchinis
- 500 g ground pork
- 100 g rice (preferably basmati for a fluffier texture)
- 2 medium onions
- 1 large carrot (for added sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon chopped dill (fresh is ideal)
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for a touch of freshness)
- 3-4 sprigs of fresh thyme (its aroma is unmistakable)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika (for a hint of color and flavor)
- 5 cherry tomatoes (optional, for decoration)
- 1 egg (for better binding of the filling)

For the sauce:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a deep flavor)
- 400 g canned tomatoes
- 200 ml water
- 2 tablespoons pomegranate sauce (adds a touch of sweetness and acidity)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for a rich taste)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the zucchinis: Wash the zucchinis well under cold water and remove the ends. Cut them in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the flesh, leaving a margin of about 1 cm. You can keep the flesh to use later in the filling or in other dishes.

2. Preparing the filling: In a pan, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sauté the finely chopped onion until it becomes translucent. Add the grated carrot and continue to sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened.

3. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, rice, sautéed vegetables, zucchini flesh (if desired), dill, parsley, thyme, salt, pepper, and sweet paprika. Add the beaten egg and mix well until homogeneous. The filling should be moist but not too runny.

4. Filling the zucchinis: Using a spoon, fill each half of the zucchini with the meat mixture. Place the stuffed zucchinis in a baking dish.

5. Preparing the sauce: In a bowl, mix the canned tomatoes, water, smoked paprika, and pomegranate sauce. Pour the obtained sauce over the stuffed zucchinis, ensuring they are evenly covered.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake the zucchinis for 30 minutes. After this interval, remove the foil and let them bake for another 10 minutes to brown nicely.

7. Serving: Take the zucchinis out of the oven and let them cool slightly. You can decorate each half with a cherry tomato on top for an attractive and fresh look. Serve them warm, alongside a green salad or a side of rice.

Practical tips and tricks:
- If you want a healthier option, you can replace the pork with chicken or turkey.
- Add some spices like oregano or basil for a Mediterranean flavor.
- You can enrich the filling with mushrooms or chopped red peppers to add more vegetables.
- Stuffed zucchinis can also be prepared in advance and frozen. Make sure to let them cool completely before storing.

Nutritional benefits:
Zucchinis are an excellent source of vitamins (A, C, K) and minerals (manganese, potassium) and are low in calories, making them ideal for a balanced diet. Pork provides protein and iron, while the rice complements the dish with complex carbohydrates, offering long-term energy.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use large zucchinis? It is recommended to use young and medium zucchinis to achieve a more pleasant texture. Large zucchinis may have a less appetizing flesh.
- How can I store stuffed zucchinis? Stuffed zucchinis can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. They can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- What side dish pairs best? A fresh salad or mashed potatoes are excellent options to complement this dish.

Stuffed zucchinis are more than just a simple dish; they are a true celebration of flavors! This recipe will bring you not only the satisfaction of a delicious meal but also the joy of cooking something special for your loved ones. Don't hesitate to experiment and bring your own variations to this classic recipe!