Creamy Minced Pork Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Transform your usual dinner fare with these delicious and effortless creamy minced pork stuffed zucchini boats. Zucchini boats make a delightful and nutritious base for any dish, and this recipe combines savory elements like minced pork and Italian tomato sauce to present a hearty meal that satisfies. The combination of vibrant vegetables, aromatic spices, and gooey melted cheese results in a dish that's both comforting and gourmet. Ideal for weeknights or as a party appetizer, these boats pack a punch of flavor with minimal effort. The preparation involves simple steps, including a gentle parboil for the zucchinis, making them easy to scoop and fill. Each bite offers a perfect blend of juicy pork, softened vegetables, rich sauce, and melted cheese. Perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners, this dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike. Its versatility allows you to adapt it to your liking by playing with different spices, sauces, and toppings.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

5 zucchinis
1 bell pepper
400-500 g minced pork
350-400 g Italian tomato pasta sauce with chunks
Cheese, grated

Spices and Sauces:

Salt
Pepper
Paprika powder
Oil for frying

Preparation Time

Total: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Begin by washing the zucchinis thoroughly. Boil water in a large pot and add a pinch of salt.
Place zucchinis in the boiling water and cook for 2-3 minutes. This brief boil softens them enough for easy scooping.
Remove zucchinis from the pot and let them cool slightly. Use a small knife to cut out the center, creating a hollow cavity. Chop the zucchini flesh into small pieces and set aside.
Dice the bell pepper and transfer it along with the zucchini pieces to a heated pan. Add a dash of oil for frying.
Sauté the vegetables over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes until they soften.
Add the minced pork to the pan. Stir together with the vegetables and cook until the pork is browned and no liquid remains, approximately 5 minutes.
Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and paprika powder. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Stir in the Italian tomato pasta sauce. Allow it to blend with the meat and vegetables, reducing the heat to low.
Simmer the sauce for a few minutes to thicken slightly. Keep the pan on high heat throughout cooking, except for this step.
Spoon the cooked mixture evenly into the hollowed zucchinis.
Generously sprinkle grated cheese over the top of each stuffed zucchini.
Preheat the oven to 220-230°C (428-446°F).
Carefully arrange the filled zucchinis on a baking tray.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden hue.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs, if desired.

Tips

Substitutions: For a healthier alternative, use ground turkey or chicken instead of pork.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with mozzarella or cheddar for different flavor profiles.
Vegetable Options: Add mushrooms or spinach to the meat mixture for extra nutrients.
Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated for up to two days.

Nutritions

Calories: Approx. 350 per serving
Protein: 20g
Fats: 25g
Carbohydrates: 15g

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Replace pork with lentils or chickpeas.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Low Carb: Ensure the tomato sauce is sugar-free.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of fresh garden salad.
Pair with crusty garlic bread for a fuller meal.
Sprinkle additional fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving.

Best Places

Da Vittorio - A culinary gem offering exquisite Italian dishes. Location: Via Cantalupa, Brusaporto, Italy.
Le Bernardin - Celebrated for its upscale seafood in a polished setting. Location: 155 W. 51st St, New York City, USA.
Tickets Restaurant - Offering a modern take on traditional Spanish tapas. Location: Av. del Paral·lel, Barcelona, Spain.
The French Laundry - A renowned culinary destination with an emphasis on French and American flavors. Location: Washington Street, Yountville, USA.
Pujol - Known for its innovative Mexican cuisine and vibrant presentation. Location: Tennyson, Mexico City, Mexico.
Quay Restaurant - Offering a stunning view of Sydney Harbour, with menus that celebrate local ingredients. Location: The Rocks, Sydney, Australia.
Gaggan - Famous for its progressive Indian cuisine. Location: Soi Sukhumvit Bangkok, Thailand.
El Celler de Can Roca - Pioneering creative Catalan cuisine. Location: Girona, Spain.
Osteria Francescana - A World-renowned restaurant blending tradition with innovation. Location: Via Stella, Modena, Italy.
Narisawa - Known for its sustainable and innovative use of Japanese ingredients. Location: Minato, Tokyo, Japan.