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Stuffed Zucchini Boats with Mushrooms and Spinach

This dish features zucchini halved and hollowed out, then filled with a savory mixture of sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and fresh spinach, combined with creamy cheese. The boats are baked until tender and golden, resulting in a comforting, visually appealing presentation with a slightly crispy top and tender filling.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Calories: 210

Ingredients
  

  • 4 zucchinis medium-sized
  • 2 cups mushrooms sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups fresh spinach chopped
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese or alternative soft cheese
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 cup shredded cheese for topping, optional

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Sauté pan
  • Spoon
  • Knife

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise and use a spoon to carefully scoop out the flesh, creating hollow boats. Place the zucchini halves on a baking sheet.
  2. Chop the scooped zucchini flesh into small pieces. Heat the olive oil in a sauté pan over medium heat.
  3. Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds, until it’s golden and you can smell the aroma filling the kitchen.
  4. Add the chopped zucchini flesh and cook, stirring occasionally, until it softens and starts to turn golden, about 5 minutes.
  5. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become tender, another 4-5 minutes, filling the air with a savory aroma.
  6. Add the chopped spinach to the pan and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
  7. Mix in the ricotta cheese, season with salt and pepper, and stir until combined into a creamy filling.
  8. Spoon the filling into each zucchini boat, pressing gently to pack it in.
  9. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each stuffed zucchini for melted, crispy topping.
  10. Bake in the preheated oven until zucchinis are tender and the cheese is golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.
  11. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Serve warm, garnished with additional herbs if desired.