Mediterranean Stuffed Zucchini

Ingredients and Weight:

1. Zucchini - 8 medium, about 1 pound (450 grams)
2. Ground meat (such as beef or turkey) - 1 pound (450 grams)
3. Rice - 1 cup (cooked)
4. Olives - ½ cup, pitted and sliced
5. Sun-dried tomatoes - ¼ cup, chopped
6. Feta cheese - ½ cup, crumbled
7. Fresh herbs (such as oregano, basil) - 2 tablespoons, chopped
8. Salt and pepper - to taste
9. Oil - 2 tablespoons, for cooking

Preparation Time: 45 minutes (plus cooking time for rice)

Cooking Time: 1 hour

Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the zucchini in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and some of the flesh to create a cavity for stuffing.
3. In a large bowl, mix the ground meat, cooked rice, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, and fresh herbs. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Fill the zucchini cavities with the meat mixture.
5. Arrange the stuffed zucchini in a baking dish and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the zucchini is tender and the filling is cooked through.
6. Remove from the oven and let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Nutritional Information:

(Based on provided ingredients)

• Calories: Approximately 400-500 per serving (depending on the type of ground meat used)
• Fat: 20-30 grams
• Carbohydrates: 25-35 grams
• Protein: 20-30 grams

Dish Characteristics:

• A unique combination of Mediterranean flavors with the traditional American taste for stuffed vegetables.
• The dish offers a balance of flavors with the salty feta cheese, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes contrasting with the mild zucchini and ground meat.
• A great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.

User Comments:

1. "This dish was a hit at my dinner party! The combination of flavors was exceptional."
2. "I loved the stuffed zucchini. It was a new and tasty way to enjoy vegetables."
3. "The dish was easy to make and the ingredients were easy to find at my local supermarket."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Be careful not to overstuff the zucchini as it may burst during baking.
• Use a good quality ground meat for best results.
• Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference.
• If you want to add more vegetables, you can mix in some cooked bell peppers or mushrooms into the filling.