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PIZZA STUFFED ZUCCHINI BOATS

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Fun and Easy Low Carb Pizza Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Looking for a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional pizza? Try making these fun and easy low-carb Pizza Stuffed Zucchini Boats! Packed with flavor and all your favorite pizza toppings, these zucchini boats are a great way to enjoy a guilt-free meal that’s perfect for any occasion. They taste so amazing that you won’t even miss the sluggish carbs. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet or simply looking for a nutritious meal, these zucchini boats are sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

  • 4 zucchini
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed rosemary
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded provolone cheese
  • 1/3 cup mini pepperoni
  • 1/4 cup sliced black olives
  • Chopped fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Preparation

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. Prepare the Zucchini: Slice the zucchini in half lengthwise. Using a small spoon, scoop out the seeds and a little bit of the flesh, leaving about 1/4 to 1/2 inch of flesh on the zucchini. Place the prepared zucchini, scooped side up, on the prepared baking sheet.

Cooking the Filling

  1. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a medium-sized skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until soft, approximately 5 minutes. Reduce the heat to low and add the minced garlic, crushed rosemary, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
  2. Combine Ingredients: Remove the pan from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Stir in the marinara sauce, 3/4 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese, and 1/4 cup of the shredded provolone cheese until well combined.

Assembling the Zucchini Boats

  1. Fill the Zucchini: Scoop the sauce and cheese mixture into the hollowed-out zucchini halves. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and provolone cheeses evenly over the top of each zucchini boat.
  2. Add Toppings: Top each zucchini boat with mini pepperoni slices and sliced black olives.

Baking

  1. Bake: Place the zucchini boats in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly browned.

Serving

  1. Garnish and Serve: Remove the zucchini boats from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh basil. Serve promptly.

Tips for Perfect Pizza Stuffed Zucchini Boats

  • Choose the Right Zucchini: Smaller zucchini cook up more tender, and their skin is less tough and not bitter like oversized zucchini. Choose zucchini that are firm and free of cuts and blemishes.
  • Cooking Time Variations: Different cooking times will produce slightly different results. Baking for 15 minutes will give you slightly crisp-tender zucchini, while 20 minutes will yield softer, more tender zucchini.
  • Cheese Options: Use any good melting cheese such as mozzarella, provolone, provel, or fontina. If desired, you can also top with grated Parmesan or grated Romano for extra flavor.
  • Pepperoni Substitute: If you cannot find mini pepperoni, substitute with regular-sized chopped pepperoni.
  • Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the microwave at reduced power to prevent the zucchini from becoming mushy.
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FAQ

Can I make these zucchini boats ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the zucchini boats ahead of time. Assemble them up to the point before baking, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake them in the preheated oven as directed.

Can I freeze stuffed zucchini boats?

Freezing zucchini boats is not recommended as the texture of the zucchini can become mushy after thawing. It’s best to enjoy them fresh.

What other toppings can I use?

Feel free to get creative with your toppings! You can add cooked sausage, mushrooms, bell peppers, or any other favorite pizza toppings.

How do I prevent the zucchini from becoming too watery?

Scooping out the seeds and some of the flesh helps reduce excess moisture. Also, avoid overbaking the zucchini to maintain a firmer texture.

Are there other low-carb alternatives to zucchini?

Yes, you can use other low-carb vegetables like bell peppers or eggplant as an alternative to zucchini for stuffing.

Can I use homemade marinara sauce?

Absolutely! Homemade marinara sauce can add a personalized touch and extra freshness to your zucchini boats.

Nutrition Information

  • Calories: 294kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Protein: 16g
  • Fat: 21g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2g
  • Cholesterol: 43mg
  • Sodium: 883mg
  • Potassium: 815mg
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 9g
  • Vitamin A: 1034IU
  • Vitamin C: 42mg
  • Calcium: 324mg
  • Iron: 2mg

These Pizza Stuffed Zucchini Boats are not only delicious but also a nutritious and fun way to enjoy all the flavors of pizza without the extra carbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful addition to your next gathering, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table!

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