How to Make French Stuffed Zucchini

French stuffed zucchini, known as "courgettes farcies," is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of zucchini with a seasoned filling. This savory recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a dish to impress guests. Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own delicious stuffed zucchini.

Ingredients

  • 4 medium zucchinis
  • 1 cup ground meat (beef, pork, or turkey)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
  • 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup grated cheese (Gruyère or mozzarella)
  • Olive oil for drizzling

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Zucchini

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Wash the zucchini thoroughly and slice them in half lengthwise. With a spoon, carefully scoop out the seeds and some of the flesh, creating a well for the filling. Reserve the scooped flesh for later use.

2. Make the Filling

In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Next, add the ground meat and cook until browned, stirring occasionally.

Once the meat is cooked, stir in the reserved zucchini flesh and diced tomatoes. Add the cooked rice or quinoa, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let the filling simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

3. Stuff the Zucchini

Carefully fill each zucchini half with the meat and rice mixture. Pack the filling gently to ensure it holds together during cooking.

4. Bake the Zucchini

Place the stuffed zucchini halves on a baking dish. Drizzle a little olive oil over the tops for added flavor and moisture. Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over each stuffed zucchini.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender and the cheese is melted and golden brown.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove the stuffed zucchini from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. French stuffed zucchini pairs beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread.

Tips for the Perfect French Stuffed Zucchini

  • Experiment with different fillings: You can use vegetarian proteins, such as lentils or mushrooms, instead of ground meat for a vegetarian option.
  • For extra flavor, consider adding spices such as paprika or cumin to the filling mix.
  • Try drizzling balsamic reduction over the stuffed zucchini just before serving for a gourmet touch.

French stuffed zucchini is not only delicious but also a healthy dish packed with nutrients. Enjoy the savory flavors and make this recipe a staple in your cooking repertoire!