Ingredients and Weight:
- 4 medium zucchini (about 1.5 pounds)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Difficulty Level: 2 (Easy)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- Cut zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh, leaving about 1/4-inch thick walls. Brush zucchini boats with olive oil.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking up any large lumps.
- Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
- Stir in tomato sauce, kidney beans, and corn. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, or until sauce thickens.
- Stuff zucchini boats with the ground beef mixture.
- Sprinkle with cheddar cheese and parsley.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until zucchini is tender and cheese is melted.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 350 per serving
- Protein: 25 grams
- Fat: 15 grams
- Carbohydrates: 40 grams
Dish Characteristics:
- Savory and flavorful with a blend of ground beef, vegetables, and cheese.
- Zucchini provides a healthy and low-carb base.
- Perfect for a main course or as a side dish.
User Comments:
- "These stuffed zucchini boats were a hit with my family. They were so easy to make and packed with flavor." - Sarah M.
- "I love the combination of the ground beef, corn, and cheese. It's like a mini casserole in a zucchini boat." - John G.
- "These boats were the perfect size for a meal. I made them for a dinner party and everyone raved about them." - Emily S.
Special Precautions and Tips:
- When scooping out the zucchini flesh, be careful not to cut through the bottom of the boats.
- If your zucchini boats are too small, you can cut them into thirds or quarters.
- To make the dish vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with lentils or beans.