Ingredients and Weight:
- 4 large Zucchini (about 1 pound)
- 1 pound lean ground meat (such as beef or turkey)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup chopped fresh mushrooms
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg (for binding)
Preparation Time:
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Difficulty Level:
Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Slice the zucchini lengthwise into quarters and scoop out the seeds, leaving the skin on.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, cooked rice, mushrooms, green onions, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add the beaten egg and mix until all ingredients are combined.
- Fill the zucchini shells with the meat mixture.
- Place the filled zucchini in a baking dish and bake for 45 minutes, or until the filling is cooked through.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approx. 300 per serving (based on 8 servings)
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 25g
Dish Characteristics:
- This dish is a combination of vegetables and meat, offering a rich and satisfying flavor.
- The use of zucchini adds a unique texture and flavor to the traditional meat casserole.
- It is easy to customize with different meats or vegetables, making it a great dish for any occasion.
User Comments:
- "The combination of zucchini and meat was unexpected but delightful."
- "This dish was so easy to make, yet it was impressive enough for a dinner party."
- "The texture of the zucchini added a nice crunch to the dish."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Make sure to use lean ground meat to reduce the fat content.
- Adjust the seasoning according to personal preference.
- If desired, you can add other vegetables such as bell peppers or olives for more flavor and texture.
- This dish can be served as a main course or as a side dish, depending on the occasion and other dishes being served.