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Spinach, Mushroom, and Ricotta Stuffed Zucchini

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Tender zucchini boats filled with creamy ricotta, sautéed spinach, and mushrooms make this dish a healthy and satisfying vegetarian favorite.

Ingredients

4 medium zucchini (cut in half lengthwise)

1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)

1/2 cup onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

1/2 cup ricotta cheese

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 tsp dried oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for topping)

Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Zucchini:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds using a spoon, creating a hollow center. Place the zucchini halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with a little olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Set aside.

Cook the Filling:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Add the chopped mushrooms and cook for another 4-5 minutes until the mushrooms release their moisture and become tender.
Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 2 minutes, just until the spinach wilts.
Remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.

Stuff the Zucchini:
In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper. Once the veggie mixture has cooled, fold it into the ricotta mixture until well combined.
Spoon the mixture evenly into the hollowed-out zucchini halves, pressing it down slightly to pack the filling.

Bake the Zucchini:
Place the stuffed zucchini on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the filling is golden brown on top.
If desired, sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the top of the stuffed zucchini during the last 5 minutes of baking and return to the oven to melt.

Serve:
Remove the zucchini from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Serve warm.

Notes

You can use low-fat ricotta cheese to make this dish lighter.

If you like a bit of crunch, sprinkle some breadcrumbs over the top before baking.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.