Zucchini is a versatile squash rich in vitamins, minerals, and plant compounds. It may offer several health benefits, ranging from improved digestion to a lower risk of heart disease. When cooked, zucchini is very high in Vitamin A which is important as it is used to maintain healthy vision and ensure the normal functioning of your organs and immune system.

This recipe is super easy to make and very versatile. I made mine as an Italian version with tomato sauce and ground turkey but you can also make a Mexican version using taco seasonings and ingredients. Either way, this is a healthy and nutritious meal that is also fun for the kids!

Ingredients (*NOTE: this is the recipe for 1, so just multiply ingredients by how many you want to make)

1 Zucchini
1 clove garlic
1/4 cup diced onion
1/4 cup diced mushrooms
4 oz ground turkey (or other protein of choice)
1/2 cup tomato sauce of choice (look for low sugar options)
2 Tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tbsp parmesan cheese
1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional if you don’t like a little heat)
1/4 tsp italian seasoning
Salt and Pepper to taste

Directions:

Preheat oven to 415 degrees
Cut zucchini in half and scrape out the seeds with a spoon
Season zucchini with a little olive oil, salt and pepper
place zucchini cut side down on baking dish and put it in the oven, let cook for about 10 minutes
While zucchini is cooking, heat olive oil in a saute pan
Add garlic and red pepper flakes and let cook for about 30 seconds
Add onions and mushrooms and cook until onions are translucent
Add red wine vinegar to deglaze the pan
Add ground turkey, season with salt and pepper and cook until meat is brown (about 5-8 minutes)
Once meat is cooked, add tomato sauce and seasonings and let simmer for 3-4 minutes
Pull zucchini out of the oven, scoop turkey mixture into the cavities of the zucchini boats
Sprinkle with cheese and place back in the oven to cook for about 3 minutes, until cheese has melted
Remove from the oven, and enjoy!

Stuffed Zucchini Boats