Zucchini Boats
Why did the zucchini join the gym? It wanted to squash the competition.
No but seriously, if you want to squash your competition at a dinner party, this recipe is for you. These Zucchini Boats are easy to make and packed with fresh vegetables, and black beans, all topped with melted cheese (the best part obvi). cue the image of a melted cheese pull
This recipe is also a fun and tasty way to get in some veggies, which I know you don’t have enough of.
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 cup cheese (I love using gouda)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh with a spoon, leaving about 1/4-inch thick shells. Reserve the scooped-out zucchini flesh and chop it finely.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute.
Add the diced bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and the chopped zucchini flesh. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Stir in the black beans, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
Place the zucchini halves in a baking dish, cut side up. Spoon the filling mixture into each zucchini half, pressing it down gently to fit as much filling as possible.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of each stuffed zucchini.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
Thank you for choosing this recipe! I hope it brings joy and delicious flavors to your table. Happy cooking and bon appétit!