Zucchini Boats with Minced Meat

This delightful recipe features zucchini as the main star, offering a creative way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. The dish involves transforming zucchinis into "boats" that are filled with a savory mixture of minced meat, carrots, and onions. This recipe is both nutritious and satisfying, perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. The combination of vegetables and protein makes it a well-rounded meal, and the addition of cheese provides a delicious, gooey topping. Ideal for those who love flavorful meals, this dish will impress with its blend of textures and flavors. You can easily adjust the spices to suit your taste preferences, making it a flexible option for different palates. The preparation is straightforward, making it suitable for both novice and seasoned cooks. Whether you’re a fan of zucchini or new to using it in your cooking, this recipe will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen. Pair it with a fresh salad or crusty bread to complete the meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis
• 1 kg minced meat
• 2 small carrots, grated
• 2 small onions, chopped
• Salt to taste
• Cheese, well-melting type, grated

Spices

• Spice mix of your choice

Preparation Time

• Total time: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Zucchini: Peel the zucchinis and cut them lengthwise in half. Scoop out the middle to create boat-like structures.
2. Blanch the Zucchini: Bring a pot of water to a boil, adding 1 teaspoon of salt per liter of water. Blanch the zucchini halves by placing them in the boiling water, and once the water resumes boiling, remove them and allow them to drain on a paper towel.
3. Cook the Meat: Heat a pan over medium heat and add the minced meat. Break the meat into smaller pieces as it cooks.
4. Add Vegetables: Once the meat starts browning, add the grated carrots and chopped onions to the pan.
5. Season the Filling: Stir in your chosen spice mix and add approximately 100 ml of water to deglaze the pan. Continue cooking until all the water has evaporated.
6. Fill the Zucchini Boats: Place the blanched zucchinis on a baking tray. Spoon the cooked meat mixture into each zucchini boat, filling them generously.
7. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the grated cheese over the filled zucchinis for a gooey finish.
8. Bake in the Oven: Preheat the oven to 220 degrees Celsius. Bake the zucchini boats for about 20 minutes, adjusting the time based on the size of the zucchinis.
9. Monitor Cooking: Keep an eye on the cheese to ensure it melts and bubbles without burning.
10. Test for Doneness: The zucchinis should be tender and the cheese melted and slightly browned.
11. Cool Slightly: Allow the boats to cool for a few minutes before serving to help the filling settle.
12. Serve: Transfer the zucchini boats to serving plates and pair with your chosen sides.

Tips

• Substitute Meat: For a vegetarian option, replace minced meat with lentils or chickpeas.
• Spice it Up: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Cheese Variety: Use mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
• Protein: 25g
• Fats: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 15g

Variations

• Vegan Version: Use vegan cheese and replace minced meat with crumbled tofu or tempeh.
• Mediterranean Twist: Add chopped olives and sun-dried tomatoes to the meat mixture.

Serving Suggestions

• Sides: Serve with a mixed green salad or garlic bread.
• Garnish: Top with fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving.

Best Places

• La Zucca – A cozy restaurant offering a wide variety of zucchini dishes. Location: Via Dietro San Sebastiano, 7/A, Venice, Italy.
• The Zucchini Bar – Known for innovative veggie-based dishes. Location: 39 St Paul's Rd, London, UK.
• Zucchini Cafe & Restaurant – Famous for their zucchini stuffed with local ingredients. Location: Hinodeya Building 5th floor, 1-5-14 Nihonbashikakigaracho, Tokyo, Japan.
• Cafe Zucchini – Offers a fresh, seasonal menu focusing on zucchini. Location: Seminyak, Bali, Indonesia.
• Zucchini Blossom Cafe – Highly rated for their delightful zucchini boats. Location: 16/14 Lorraine Dr, Calgary, Canada.
• Zucchini & Mint – Combines Mediterranean flavors with creative zucchini dishes. Location: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Dubai, UAE.
• Green Zucchini Restaurant – Offers organic and healthy meals centered around zucchini. Location: 415 S Teller St, Lakewood, USA.
• Bistro Zucca – An Italian place celebrating zucchini in traditional recipes. Location: Rue de l'Arbre Bénit 72, Brussels, Belgium.
• Zucchini Paradise – A vegetarian haven in the heart of the city. Location: Via Appia Nuova, 178, Rome, Italy.
• The Zucchini House – Known for creative, tasty zucchini creations. Location: Albert Cuypstraat 63, Amsterdam, Netherlands.