Savory Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Boats
Elevate your vegetable side dishes with these Savory Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Boats. Fresh, tender zucchini is sliced in half and hollowed out, then filled with a delectable mix of butter, crushed garlic, and a generous layer of cheesy goodness. Perfectly baked to achieve a tender-but-crisp texture, this dish is not only flavorful but also a healthy addition to any meal. Ideal for family dinners, gatherings, or as a delightful snack. Enjoy the combination of garlic and cheese in every bite!
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Zucchini
4 (medium, sliced lengthwise and scored diagonally)
Shredded Cheese
1/2 cup (your choice (mozzarella or cheddar work well))
Parmesan Cheese
2 tablespoons (grated)
Cracked Pepper
to taste (freshly cracked)
Butter
1 tablespoon (melted)
Crushed Garlic
1/2 teaspoon (fresh or jarred)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2
Slice the zucchini lengthwise and carefully scoop out some of the flesh to create boats, being sure to leave about 1/4 inch of the outer flesh for stability.
3
Score the tops of the zucchini gently with a diagonal pattern to allow for even cooking and added flavor absorption.
4
Place the zucchini halves in a baking dish, cut side up.
5
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with crushed garlic, then brush this mixture evenly over the zucchini halves.
6
Sprinkle the shredded cheese and grated Parmesan over the zucchini, ensuring an even distribution.
7
Season with cracked pepper according to your taste.
8
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender yet still slightly crisp and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9
Serve warm and enjoy your deliciously savory side dish!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Boats?
They are a vegetable side dish where medium zucchini are sliced, hollowed out, and filled with a mixture of butter, garlic, and cheese before being baked.
How many zucchini do I need for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 4 medium zucchini.
What is the best way to slice the zucchini?
Slice the zucchini lengthwise to create two long halves.
How much of the zucchini flesh should I scoop out?
Leave about 1/4 inch of the outer flesh to ensure the boats remain stable during cooking.
What does it mean to score the zucchini?
Scoring involves cutting a shallow diagonal pattern into the top of the zucchini flesh to help it cook evenly and absorb flavors.
What temperature should I set my oven to?
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius.
What type of cheese works best for the filling?
A mix of shredded cheese like mozzarella or cheddar along with grated Parmesan is recommended.
Can I use jarred garlic for this recipe?
Yes, you can use either fresh or jarred crushed garlic.
How much butter is used in the recipe?
The recipe uses 1 tablespoon of melted butter.
How long do the zucchini boats need to bake?
Bake them for 15 to 20 minutes.
How do I know when the zucchini boats are finished cooking?
The zucchini should be tender but still slightly crisp, and the cheese should be melted and bubbly.
Is this recipe considered low carb?
Yes, it is a low carb and healthy vegetable side dish.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
Can I use olive oil instead of butter?
Yes, olive oil can be used as a substitute for butter if you prefer.
What kind of pepper should I use?
Freshly cracked pepper is recommended to season to your taste.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this is a vegetarian-friendly dish.
Do I need to peel the zucchini first?
No, you should leave the skin on to help the boat hold its shape.
Can I add protein to these zucchini boats?
While this is a side dish, you could add cooked ground meat or sausage to the filling to make it a main meal.
What should I do with the scooped-out zucchini flesh?
You can chop it up and add it to soups, stir-fries, or even mix it back into the cheese filling.
Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes, you can cook them in an air fryer at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 8 to 12 minutes until tender.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free.
What should I serve these with?
They pair well with grilled chicken, steak, or a fresh garden salad.
Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?
Yes, yellow summer squash can be used in place of zucchini with similar results.
How do I store leftover zucchini boats?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze these after baking?
Zucchini has a high water content and may become mushy after freezing and thawing, so it is best enjoyed fresh.
How should I reheat leftovers?
Reheat them in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through to maintain the texture.
Can I add breadcrumbs to the topping?
Yes, adding Panko or Italian breadcrumbs can provide an extra crunch.
Is the garlic flavor very strong?
The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of garlic for 4 zucchini, providing a savory balance without being overpowering.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
You can scoop and score the zucchini in advance, but for the best texture, wait to add the butter and cheese until just before baking.
What is the total preparation and cook time?
Including prep and baking, the dish takes approximately 25 to 30 minutes to complete.