Cheesy Zucchini Pizza Boats
Indulge in a deliciously innovative take on pizza with these Cheesy Zucchini Pizza Boats! These guilt-free delights feature zucchini as a nutritious base, lightly brushed with fragrant garlic and olive oil. Each boat is loaded with rich marinara sauce, plenty of gooey mozzarella, and topped with mini pepperoni for that authentic pizza taste. A sprinkle of fresh oregano adds a burst of flavor, making these pizza boats the perfect appetizer or healthy meal option. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, they're sure to impress even the pickiest eaters with their vibrant flavors and satisfying textures!
12
Servings
120
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
small zucchini
6 (halved lengthwise)
olive oil
1 tablespoon (to brush)
garlic clove
1 (finely minced)
salt
to taste
black pepper
to taste
marinara sauce
1 cup (for topping)
shredded mozzarella cheese
1.5 cups (6 oz) (for topping)
parmesan cheese
1/3 cup (finely shredded for topping)
mini pepperoni
1/3 cup (for topping)
fresh oregano
2 tablespoons (chopped for garnish)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2
Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a Silpat liner for easy cleanup.
3
Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise and pat the insides dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
4
Arrange the zucchini halves cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet.
5
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil and minced garlic. Use a brush to lightly coat the top of each zucchini half with the garlic oil mixture.
6
Generously season the tops with salt and black pepper to taste.
7
Add a heaping tablespoon of marinara sauce to each zucchini half, spreading it while leaving a small border around the edges.
8
Sprinkle an even layer of shredded mozzarella cheese onto the sauced zucchinis, followed by a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
9
Distribute the mini pepperoni slices evenly on top, positioning them primarily in the center as the cheese will melt and spread.
10
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 18 minutes, depending on your desired zucchini tenderness and crispness.
11
Once cooked, remove from the oven and finish with a generous sprinkle of chopped fresh oregano before serving.
Nutrition Information
7g
Fat
6g
Carbs
6g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Cheesy Zucchini Pizza Boats?
Cheesy Zucchini Pizza Boats are a healthy, low-carb alternative to traditional pizza, using halved zucchini as the base instead of dough, topped with marinara, cheese, and pepperoni.
How many calories are in one serving of these pizza boats?
Each serving contains approximately 120 calories.
How long does it take to bake zucchini pizza boats?
The zucchini boats should be baked for 12 to 18 minutes at 400°F (200°C), depending on your preferred level of tenderness.
Are these zucchini pizza boats gluten-free?
Yes, because the recipe uses fresh zucchini instead of a flour-based crust, it is naturally gluten-free.
How can I prevent the zucchini from becoming soggy?
After slicing the zucchini in half, pat the insides dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before adding toppings.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the mini pepperoni or replace it with your favorite plant-based topping to make it vegetarian.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 400°F (200°C).
How many zucchini are required for this recipe?
This recipe calls for 6 small zucchini, which are halved to create 12 boats.
Is this recipe considered low-carb or Keto-friendly?
Yes, with only 6g of carbohydrates per serving, it is an excellent choice for low-carb and Keto lifestyles.
What kind of cheese is used in this recipe?
The recipe uses a combination of shredded mozzarella cheese for meltability and parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Can I use dried oregano instead of fresh?
Yes, while fresh oregano provides a vibrant garnish, you can use a smaller amount of dried oregano if fresh is unavailable.
Do I need to peel the zucchini before baking?
No, you do not need to peel them. The skin helps hold the shape of the boat and contains many nutrients.
How much protein is in each serving?
Each serving provides 6g of protein.
What is the best way to apply the garlic oil?
Mix the olive oil and minced garlic in a small bowl, then use a pastry brush to lightly coat the top of each zucchini half.
Can I use a different sauce besides marinara?
Absolutely! You can experiment with pesto, alfredo sauce, or even a spicy arrabbiata for different flavor profiles.
How do I store leftover zucchini pizza boats?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I reheat these in the microwave?
While you can use a microwave, reheating them in the oven or an air fryer is recommended to maintain the texture of the zucchini.
What size zucchini should I use?
Small to medium zucchinis are best as they are more tender and have smaller seeds than large ones.
Are these suitable for a party appetizer?
Yes, they are excellent finger foods and appetizers because they are easy to hold and serve.
How much fat is in one serving?
One serving contains 7g of fat.
Do I need to use parchment paper?
It is recommended to use parchment paper or a Silpat liner to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Can I add other vegetable toppings?
Yes, finely chopped bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms make great additional toppings.
Is this a quick meal for weeknights?
Yes, it is categorized as a '< 30 Mins' recipe, making it perfect for busy evenings.
Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?
Yes, yellow summer squash has a similar texture and will work perfectly with this recipe.
How many servings does this recipe make?
The recipe makes 12 servings.
Should I remove the seeds from the zucchini?
For small zucchinis, it is not necessary. If using larger zucchinis, you may want to scoop out some of the center to make more room for sauce.
What should I look for to know they are done?
The zucchini should be tender when pierced with a fork, and the cheese should be melted and slightly golden.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the mozzarella and parmesan with your favorite vegan cheese alternatives.
Are these spicy?
The base recipe is mild, but you can add red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicy kick.
Is it better to use fresh or jarred marinara?
Both work well. Use a high-quality jarred marinara to save time, or homemade for extra flavor.