Spinach, Mushroom, and Ricotta Stuffed Zucchini Recipe
A wholesome and delicious recipe featuring fresh zucchini boats stuffed with a savory blend of sautéed spinach, mushrooms, and creamy ricotta cheese, baked to tender perfection. This dish is perfect as a light lunch or a satisfying vegetarian dinner option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 medium zucchini
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
Other Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F to ensure it’s ready for baking the stuffed zucchini boats later.
- Prepare zucchini boats: Slice the zucchini in half lengthwise, then carefully scoop out the seeds and some flesh to create hollow boats for the filling.
- Sauté mushrooms: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, add the sliced mushrooms, and cook them until they turn golden and tender, about 5 minutes.
- Cook spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet with mushrooms and cook until the spinach wilts down.
- Season vegetables: Season the sautéed mushrooms and spinach with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Mix with ricotta: Transfer the cooked vegetables to a bowl and combine thoroughly with ricotta cheese to create a creamy stuffing mixture.
- Fill zucchini boats: Spoon the ricotta and vegetable mixture into each zucchini boat, distributing evenly.
- Bake: Arrange the filled zucchini boats on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the filling is heated through.
Notes
- You can add grated Parmesan cheese on top before baking for a cheesy crust.
- For a vegan version, substitute ricotta cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Adding minced garlic while sautéing mushrooms enhances flavor.
- Use larger zucchini for more filling or extra servings.
- Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
Keywords: stuffed zucchini, ricotta, spinach, mushroom, vegetarian, baked zucchini boats
