Stuffed zucchini boats are a classic comfort food that can be easily made vegan. This recipe for Vegan Stuffed Zucchini Boats is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a satisfying and healthy meal.
Why You’ll Love These Vegan Stuffed Zucchini Boats
These vegan stuffed zucchini boats are:
- Flavorful: The filling is made with a savory blend of vegetables, herbs, and spices that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Nutritious: Zucchini is a low-calorie vegetable that is a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The filling is also packed with nutrients from the vegetables and legumes.
- Easy to make: This recipe is straightforward to follow, even for beginner cooks.
- Versatile: You can easily customize the filling to your liking by using different vegetables, herbs, and spices.
Ingredients You Will Need
- 4 medium zucchini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chopped mushrooms
- 1 cup chopped bell pepper
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Vegan stuffed zucchini boats ingredients laid out on a wooden table
Let’s Get Cooking!
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
- Prepare the zucchini boats: Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and pulp, creating a hollowed-out boat.
- Make the filling: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add remaining filling ingredients: Stir in mushrooms and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5 minutes more. Add black beans, diced tomatoes, quinoa, parsley, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until heated through.
- Stuff the zucchini boats: Spoon the filling into the hollowed-out zucchini boats.
- Bake: Place the stuffed zucchini boats in a baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the filling is heated through.
A person scooping out the seeds and pulp from a zucchini half.
Tips for the Best Vegan Stuffed Zucchini Boats
- Choose the right zucchini: Look for zucchini that are firm and have smooth skin. Avoid zucchini that are too large, as they will be watery.
- Don’t overcook the zucchini: The zucchini should be tender but not mushy.
- Get creative with the filling: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as corn, spinach, or carrots, to the filling. You can also add different herbs and spices to your liking.
- Make it cheesy: For a cheesy flavor, sprinkle the stuffed zucchini boats with vegan parmesan cheese before baking.
“Using quinoa in the filling not only adds a boost of protein and fiber, but it also gives the boats a delightfully nutty flavor and satisfying texture,” says Chef Amelia Green, author of “The Plant-Based Plate.”
Vegan stuffed zucchini boats baking in a baking dish.
Vegan Stuffed Zucchini Boat FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffed zucchini boats up to a day in advance. Cover and store in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover stuffed zucchini boats can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze stuffed zucchini boats?
While you can freeze them, it’s not ideal as the zucchini can become mushy upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or shortly after reheating.
What can I serve with vegan stuffed zucchini boats?
These boats are delicious on their own or served with a side of salad, roasted vegetables, or a grain of your choice.
Can I use different vegetables in the filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative and use your favorite vegetables. Mushrooms, bell peppers, corn, spinach, and carrots would all be delicious additions.
“This recipe is incredibly versatile! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavor profiles by incorporating spices like smoked paprika, cumin, or even a touch of chili powder,” suggests Chef Green.
Two vegan stuffed zucchini boats plated and ready to eat.
Enjoy!
These vegan stuffed zucchini boats are a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for any night of the week. With their flavorful filling and nutritious ingredients, they are sure to become a new favorite!
