How to make successful stuffed zucchini: the essential tip for summer 2024
Star vegetable of the summer Soft and golden stuffed Anti-waste recipe Top cooking tips
Why are stuffed zucchini summer?
As soon as the season is in full swing, it's impossible to resist the call of stuffed zucchini . Soft in the center, golden on top, they bring life to summer tables. Whether you prefer classic dishes (sausage or beef, rice, herbs) or a fan of veggie versions (quinoa, feta, chickpeas), they're the perfect family dish.
Plus, it's a great way to reduce waste : recycle stale bread, leftover vegetables, or meat. Courgettes are popular from June to September, but you can easily find them at good greengrocers until October.
And if you want to save time, consider air frying : fast cooking, melting zucchini and well-gratinated stuffing, without heating up the kitchen. Perfect for summer evenings when you want to spend more time outside than behind the stove! 🔥
Ideas for variation & serving 🥗
Veggie sun version
Swap out the meat for a quinoa, sun-dried tomato, feta, and fresh herb combo. It's incredibly flavorful, and even meat-eaters love it. For a Mediterranean touch, add a few black olives and a drizzle of olive oil before baking.
Express stuffed zucchini
In a hurry? Slice the zucchini into thick rounds, hollow out the center slightly, and use leftover ratatouille or Bolognese as the base for the stuffing. Ten to fifteen minutes in the air fryer or oven, and it's ready!
Smart support
Serve your stuffed zucchini with a blended yogurt sauce (yogurt, lemon, mint, and blended garlic), a baby leaf salad, or fragrant rice. It's fresh, filling, and perfect for a complete meal.
Barbecue/grill option
Want to take things to the next level? Place your stuffed zucchini (pre-steamed) on the barbecue grill to give them an irresistible smoky note. A must-try at your next summer party!
The essential tip for making them a success
Budget, purchases & useful equipment
Budget-wise , zucchini remains one of the most affordable vegetables in peak season. At the market or your local greengrocer, aim for firm zucchini with smooth, shiny skin and medium size (too big = spongy flesh, too small = not much stuffing possible). Prices are at their lowest from June to September, so take advantage of this time to cook with family or friends.
To save time when cooking, check out our air fryer comparison : you'll find models suited to perfectly cooking your stuffed vegetables, gratins, and summer vegetables. If you prefer traditional cooking, a conventional oven or even a barbecue (with a fine grill) will do the job perfectly.
Fancy a vitamin-packed stuffed zucchini? Use a blender to mix the filling (tomatoes, herbs, cream cheese) and create a creamy base to slide under the breadcrumbs.
For even more ideas each week, explore our selection of homemade recipes on Neary's Recipes of the Week . Stuffed zucchini takes pride of place, whether it's a veggie, Mediterranean, or quick version!
FAQ
How to prevent zucchini from releasing too much water once stuffed?
Pre-cook the zucchini a little (steam or microwave), then let it drain well upside down. You can also lightly salt the inside after scooping it out to encourage drainage. This will keep the stuffing soft and not soggy.
Can stuffed zucchini be prepared in advance?
Yes! Prepare them in the morning or the day before, keep them chilled (uncooked), and bake them just before serving. They also freeze very well, even pre-cooked. Practical for a "ready-to-gratin" meal during the week.
Which meat or alternative should I choose for stuffing?
Classic: sausage meat, ground beef, chicken, or veal. Vegetarian version: quinoa, red lentils, chickpeas, cream cheese, crumbled tofu, or even leftover roasted vegetables. The important thing is to season generously with herbs, spices, and a binder.
How to get a nicely gratinated top?
Breadcrumbs, grated cheese (Parmesan, Emmental, mozzarella, etc.), and a drizzle of olive oil before baking or air frying. For even more crunch, consider panko or sunflower seeds.
What other summer recipes can you try with zucchini?
In addition to stuffed vegetables, try grilled zucchini on the barbecue, raw carpaccio with olive oil, or cold veloutés blended in a blender. You'll find plenty of ideas on our recipe of the week page!
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