Looking for a delightful way to elevate your weeknight dinner? Dive into the vibrant world of "Stuffed Zucchini Herbed Quinoa"! This vegetarian dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a wholesome explosion of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. With tender zucchini shells filled with a savory quinoa mixture, this recipe is perfect for anyone seeking a healthy yet satisfying meal. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-make dish that’s sure to become a new favorite!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup onion, diced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your stuffed zucchinis cook evenly and thoroughly.
- Begin by preparing the zucchinis. Wash them under cold water to remove any dirt. Cut each zucchini in half lengthwise, and use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and some of the flesh, creating a hollow space for the filling. Be careful not to scoop too much, as you want the zucchini to maintain its structure.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, diced cherry tomatoes, chopped parsley, diced onion, garlic powder, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Using a spoon, carefully fill each hollowed zucchini half with the quinoa mixture. Press down gently to ensure the filling is packed in but not overflowing.
- Place the stuffed zucchinis in a baking dish. If desired, drizzle a little extra olive oil over the top for added flavor and moisture.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to help retain moisture during cooking. This will prevent the zucchinis from drying out.
- Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. This allows the zucchinis to soften and the flavors to meld.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This will help the tops of the stuffed zucchinis to brown slightly and become more flavorful.
- Once cooked, remove the baking dish from the oven and let the stuffed zucchinis cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious and nutritious Stuffed Zucchini Herbed Quinoa!
Tips
- Choose the Right Zucchini: Opt for medium-sized zucchinis that are firm and have a vibrant color. They should be free of blemishes for the best flavor and texture.
- Cook Quinoa Perfectly: If you’re cooking quinoa from scratch, rinse it well before cooking to remove any bitterness. Use a 2:1 water-to-quinoa ratio for fluffy results.
- Customize Your Filling: Feel free to add other vegetables or spices to the quinoa mixture, such as bell peppers, corn, or even a sprinkle of cheese for added richness.
- Don’t Overstuff: When filling the zucchini, pack the mixture gently to avoid overflowing. This helps the zucchinis maintain their shape and ensures even cooking.
- Check for Doneness: Zucchini should be tender but not mushy. You can test them with a fork; they should easily pierce but hold their structure.
- Garnish for Flavor: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or cilantro right before serving can enhance the dish’s freshness and presentation.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed zucchinis ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just pop them in the oven when you're ready for a delicious meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
