Zucchini Rings Filled with Ground Meat and Rice Noodles

This delicious and visually appealing dish brings together flavorful zucchini rings filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and a blend of spices. The combination is both comforting and nutritious, making it a great choice for a family dinner. Topped with a cheese-and-tomato sauce, these stuffed zucchini rings are baked to perfection, ensuring a crispy exterior and a tender, juicy filling. Accompanied by a side of rice noodles soaked in a fragrant vegetable broth, this meal is both fulfilling and satisfying. It offers a creative way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet in a way that's both tasty and hearty. With a preparation time of just over an hour, this dish is perfect for those evenings when you want to cook something special without spending too much time in the kitchen. Embellished with fresh herbs, it not only looks inviting but also tantalizes the taste buds. Adaptable to various dietary needs, this recipe is a surefire way to impress your family or guests with something a little different. Delight in the melding of textures and flavors in every bite, and enjoy this innovative approach to a classic favorite.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

0.260 kg zucchini
0.100 kg ground meat
0.034 kg onions
0.040 kg rice (cooked)
0.014 kg cheese
0.070 kg tomatoes
0.006 kg garlic
0.040 kg egg

Spices and Sauces

0.005 kg cumin
0.005 kg spices (your choice)
0.006 kg fresh herbs
Mayonnaise, as needed

Additional

0.080 kg rice noodles
0.300 kg vegetable broth

Preparation Time

Total Time: 80 minutes
Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Zucchini: Cut the zucchini into rings about 5-7 cm thick, removing the seeds to create a hollow center.
Parboil the Zucchini: Boil the zucchini rings in salted water for about 5 minutes to soften them slightly.
Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine the ground meat with finely chopped onions, cooked rice, egg, salt, and any other spices you prefer. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
Stuff the Zucchini: Fill the hollowed-out zucchini rings with the prepared meat mixture, ensuring it is firmly packed.
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 200°C (about 392°F).
Bake the Zucchini: Place the stuffed zucchini rings in a preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes.
Prepare the Sauce: Grate the cheese, and combine with blanched, chopped tomatoes and minced garlic. Add a bit of mayonnaise for creaminess.
Top with Sauce: Once the zucchini has baked for 20 minutes, take them out of the oven and pour the cheese and tomato sauce over them.
Continue Baking: Return to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is golden.
Prepare the Noodles: While the zucchini finishes baking, pour boiling vegetable broth over the rice noodles and let them soak for 5-8 minutes until soft.
Plate the Dish: On a large plate, lay a bed of rice noodles as the base.
Add the Zucchini Rings: Place the baked stuffed zucchini rings on top of the noodles.
Garnish: Decorate with freshly chopped herbs for added color and flavor.
Serve Warm: Enjoy your beautifully presented dish while hot for the best taste.

Tips

Substitutions: Use turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner protein option.
Cheese Options: Swap out regular cheese for mozzarella or feta for different flavors.
Vegetarian Variant: Replace meat with lentils or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
Sauce Enhancement: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a hint of spice.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Protein: 20 g
Fats: 15 g
Carbs: 30 g

Variations

Experiment with different veggies: carrots or bell peppers can be added to the stuffing for extra crunch.
For a gluten-free option, ensure all spices and sauces used are certified gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with a crisp, refreshing salad of greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a well-rounded meal.
A glass of light white wine complements the delicate flavors of the dish.

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