Italian-Style Zucchini Beef Boats for 8

Ingredients and Weight:

• 8 medium zucchinis (2 pounds)
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 onion, chopped (4 ounces)
• 1/2 green bell pepper, chopped (4 ounces)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (1 ounce)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (1 ounce)
• 1/4 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs (1 ounce)
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (2 ounces)
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Preparation Time:

30 minutes

Cooking Time:

30 minutes

Difficulty Level:

2 (Easy)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. In a large skillet, brown ground beef, onion, and green pepper over medium heat.
4. Stir in parsley, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs.
5. Scoop the beef mixture evenly into zucchini halves.
6. In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
7. Pour the tomato sauce over the zucchini boats.
8. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
9. Bake for 30 minutes, or until zucchini are tender and cheese is melted and bubbly.

Nutritional Information:

Per serving (1 zucchini boat):

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 15 grams
• Carbohydrates: 20 grams
• Fat: 10 grams

Dish Characteristics:

• Savory and hearty
• Stuffed with a flavorful beef and vegetable filling
• Topped with melted cheese
• Perfect for an Italian-themed dinner or as an appetizer

User Comments:

• "These zucchini boats were a hit at our dinner party!"
• "The beef filling was so flavorful and the zucchini cooked to perfection."
• "I loved the combination of the tomato sauce and melted cheese."
• "This dish is easy to make and perfect for a weeknight meal."
• "I added some extra spices to the tomato sauce for a bit of extra kick."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Use firm, medium-sized zucchinis for best results.
• If you don't have Italian-style breadcrumbs, you can make your own by toasting regular breadcrumbs in a skillet with olive oil and Italian herbs.
• Serve with a side of crusty bread or a green salad.