Description
Delicious and healthy Bruschetta Quinoa Zucchini Boats are a Mediterranean-inspired dish perfect for a light lunch or side. Zucchini halves are scooped, filled with a savory mix of quinoa, cherry tomatoes, garlic, fresh basil, and balsamic vinegar, then baked to tender perfection and topped with melted cheese or a vegan alternative.
Ingredients
Scale
Zucchini Boats
- 4 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise and scooped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or parmesan cheese (optional)
- Additional basil for garnish
Bruschetta Quinoa Filling
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare zucchini: Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a baking dish. Scoop out the centers of the halved zucchini using a spoon, leaving about ¼ inch of flesh to create “boats.” Place them cut side up in the baking dish and lightly brush with olive oil.
- Bake zucchini shells: Bake the prepared zucchini halves for 10 minutes to slightly soften them and prepare for stuffing.
- Prepare filling: While the zucchini bakes, combine cooked quinoa, diced cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Stir thoroughly to blend the flavors.
- Stuff zucchini: Remove the zucchini from the oven and spoon the bruschetta quinoa mixture evenly into each boat.
- Add cheese and finish baking: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or parmesan cheese evenly over the filled zucchini boats if using. Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for another 10–12 minutes until zucchini is tender and cheese is melted.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from oven and garnish with additional fresh basil. Serve warm or at room temperature for a delightful meal.
Notes
- For a vegan version, omit the cheese or substitute with plant-based cheese alternatives.
- These zucchini boats can be served warm or at room temperature, making them versatile for any occasion.
- This dish makes a beautiful light lunch or side dish, perfect for Mediterranean-inspired meals.