Sure! Here’s a delicious recipe for stuffed zucchini rounds that’s both savory and satisfying. It’s perfect for a light meal or an appetizer.
Stuffed Zucchini Rounds
Ingredients:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup ground turkey or chicken (optional for a non-vegetarian version)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or parsley
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray
Instructions:
- Prepare the Zucchini:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Wash the zucchinis and cut off the ends. Slice them into 1/2-inch thick rounds. You should end up with about 16-20 rounds depending on the size of your zucchinis.
- Using a small spoon or a melon baller, carefully scoop out the center of each round, creating a small well for the filling. Be sure to leave a small border around the edges so the rounds hold their shape.
- Prepare the Filling:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- If using ground turkey or chicken, add it to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon. If you prefer a vegetarian option, skip this step.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Remove from heat and stir in the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella, fresh herbs, sun-dried tomatoes (if using), and dried oregano. Mix until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stuff the Zucchini Rounds:
- Arrange the zucchini rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased with cooking spray.
- Spoon the filling into each zucchini round, pressing down slightly to pack it in. Be generous with the filling, as it will shrink a little during baking.
- Bake:
- Spray the tops of the stuffed zucchini rounds lightly with cooking spray or drizzle a little olive oil over them.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the tops are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve:
- Allow the zucchini rounds to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Tips:
- If you prefer a more substantial filling, you can add cooked quinoa or rice to the mixture.
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling.
- These stuffed zucchini rounds make a great party appetizer or a side dish for grilled meats.
Enjoy your delicious stuffed zucchini rounds! They’re a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, veggie-packed treat that’s full of flavor and texture.
