Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini

Feta cheese stuffed zucchini is a delightful dish that brings together the fresh flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. This recipe offers a perfect blend of creamy feta, rich Gruyere, and tangy Greek yogurt, all nestled in tender zucchini. Ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a light lunch, a festive appetizer, or a healthy side dish at dinner, this dish is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vitamins and low in carbs, this dish fits perfectly into a balanced diet.
• Easy to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious recipe even on busy days.
• Versatile Options: Customize your stuffing by adding different herbs or spices to suit your taste.
• Great for Meal Prep: These stuffed zucchinis can be made ahead of time and stored for quick meals throughout the week.
• Visually Appealing: The vibrant colors of the zucchini and filling make it an attractive addition to any table.

Tools and Preparation

To make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and browning of your stuffed zucchinis.
• Mixing bowl: Allows easy combining of ingredients without mess.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes cutting through the zucchini effortless.
• Spoon: Useful for scooping out the zucchini flesh and filling them with your delicious mixture.

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Ingredients

Feta cheese stuffed zucchini is light, and appetizing with a herby-lemony flavor. Stuffed with feta, Gruyere, and Greek yogurt.

For the Zucchini

• 675 grams (3 medium) zucchinis

For the Filling

• 150 grams (1 cup + 1 tbsp) crumbled feta cheese
• 90 grams (½ cup) Greek yogurt strained
• 20 grams (1 medium) spring onion
• 40 grams (½ cup) grated Gruyere cheese
• ½ lemon zest
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (+ a little bit extra to drizzle on top)
• ⅓ teaspoon dried oregano (+ a little bit extra to sprinkle on top)

How to Make Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C / 390°F. This ensures that your stuffed zucchinis cook evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

1. Wash and dry the zucchinis.
2. Cut each zucchini in half lengthwise.
3. Use a spoon to scoop out some of the flesh to create space for the stuffing. Set aside the scooped-out flesh for later use if desired.

Step 3: Make the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine crumbled feta cheese, strained Greek yogurt, chopped spring onion, grated Gruyere cheese, lemon zest, garlic powder, chopped parsley, olive oil, and dried oregano.
2. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 4: Stuff the Zucchini

1. Spoon the filling into each hollowed zucchini half generously.
2. Drizzle a little olive oil over each stuffed zucchini for added flavor.

Step 5: Bake

Place the stuffed zucchinis in a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until they are tender and golden brown on top.

Enjoy your delicious Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini as an appetizer or side dish!

How to Serve Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini

Feta cheese stuffed zucchini is a delightful appetizer that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet meal at home, these stuffed zucchinis can be paired with many options.

With a Fresh Salad

• A light green salad with mixed leaves and a lemon vinaigrette complements the dish perfectly.

As Part of a Mezze Platter

• Include your stuffed zucchini alongside hummus, olives, and pita bread for a Mediterranean-inspired feast.

Drizzled with Extra Olive Oil

• A drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances the flavors and adds richness to each bite.

Paired with Grilled Chicken

• Serve alongside grilled chicken breast seasoned with herbs for a heartier meal.

With Whole Grain Bread

• Toasted whole grain bread makes for a satisfying side that balances the freshness of the zucchini.

How to Perfect Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini

To make sure your feta cheese stuffed zucchini turns out fantastic every time, follow these simple tips.

• Choose firm zucchinis – Select zucchinis that are firm and free from blemishes for the best results.
• Preheat your oven – Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking and proper melting of the cheeses.
• Mix cheeses well – Combine feta and Gruyere thoroughly for an even distribution of flavors throughout the stuffing.
• Adjust seasoning – Taste your filling before stuffing and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
• Don’t overstuff – Fill zucchinis generously but avoid overstuffing to prevent spillage during baking.

Best Side Dishes for Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini

Pairing side dishes with feta cheese stuffed zucchini can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Quinoa Salad – A refreshing salad made with quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and parsley, dressed lightly with lemon juice.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and eggplant roasted until tender add color and flavor.
3. Herbed Couscous – Fluffy couscous tossed with fresh herbs offers a light yet satisfying accompaniment.
4. Greek Tzatziki Sauce – A cool yogurt-based sauce provides a creamy contrast to the savory stuffed zucchinis.
5. Steamed Broccoli – Simple steamed broccoli drizzled with lemon juice adds nutritional value and balance.
6. Chickpea Salad – A hearty salad featuring chickpeas, red onion, parsley, and olive oil brings protein and fiber to the table.
7. Bulgur Wheat Pilaf – Flavorful bulgur cooked with spices creates a nutty side that pairs well with the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing feta cheese stuffed zucchini, it’s easy to make some common errors that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Boldly overstuffing: Avoid cramming too much filling into the zucchini, as this can lead to uneven cooking. Stick to the recommended amounts for the best result.

• Boldly skipping the seasoning: Feta cheese has flavor, but don’t forget to season the filling properly. Use garlic powder and herbs like oregano to enhance taste.

• Boldly undercooking: Zucchini needs enough time in the oven to soften and blend flavors with the filling. Ensure you follow the cooking time for perfect results.

• Boldly neglecting moisture: Zucchini can release water while baking. If your filling is too wet, it may become soggy. Consider straining yogurt or using drier feta cheese.

• Boldly ignoring presentation: How you arrange your zucchini can influence its appeal. Take a moment to drizzle olive oil and sprinkle herbs on top before serving.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Feta cheese stuffed zucchini will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini

• Wrap each stuffed zucchini tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini

• Boldly using the oven: Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.

• Boldly utilizing the microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes or until hot.

• Boldly opting for stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or water, covering it until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about feta cheese stuffed zucchini that may help clarify any doubts you have:

What is Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini?

Feta cheese stuffed zucchini is a delicious appetizer made by hollowing out zucchinis and filling them with a mixture of feta, Greek yogurt, and herbs, then baking until tender.

How do I prepare zucchinis for stuffing?

To prepare zucchinis, wash them thoroughly, then slice off the ends and cut each one in half lengthwise. Scoop out some flesh with a spoon to create space for your filling.

Can I use different cheeses in Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini?

Yes! Feel free to mix up the cheeses. You could use goat cheese or even mozzarella as alternatives while maintaining a similar texture and flavor profile.

How long do I need to bake Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini?

Bake your feta cheese stuffed zucchini at 200°C (390°F) for about 45 minutes or until they are tender and golden on top.

Final Thoughts

Feta cheese stuffed zucchini is not only light and flavorful but also versatile. You can customize this recipe by adding different vegetables or spices according to your taste preferences. Give it a try; it makes a fantastic appetizer or side dish!