Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini

Feta cheese stuffed zucchini is a delightful dish that combines fresh, vibrant flavors with a healthy twist. This recipe showcases the versatility of zucchini, making it perfect for appetizers, light meals, or even as a side dish at gatherings. Each bite is packed with the creamy goodness of feta and Gruyere cheeses, complemented by the refreshing taste of herbs and lemon zest.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of feta cheese and Gruyere creates a rich and savory filling, while lemon zest adds a bright note.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients, this dish is gluten-free and low in carbs, making it ideal for health-conscious eaters.
• Versatile Dish: Great as an appetizer or a main course, these stuffed zucchinis can be served at any occasion, from casual dinners to festive gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Below are some items you’ll need to prepare this flavorful dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Grater

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A sturdy baking dish ensures even cooking and browning of your stuffed zucchinis.
• Knife: A sharp knife helps you easily cut through the zucchini and chop ingredients effectively.
• Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl provides ample space to combine all your stuffing ingredients without mess.

Ingredients

Feta cheese stuffed zucchini is light, appetizing with a herby-lemony flavor. Stuffed with feta, Gruyere, and Greek yogurt.

For the Zucchini

• 675 grams (3 medium) zucchinis

For the Filling

• 150 grams (1 cup + 1 tbsp) crumbled feta cheese
• 90 grams (½ cup) Greek yogurt strained
• 20 grams (1 medium) spring onion
• 40 grams (½ cup) grated Gruyere cheese
• ½ lemon zest
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (+ a little bit extra to drizzle on top)
• ⅓ teaspoon dried oregano (+ a little bit extra to sprinkle on top)

How to Make Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C / 390°F. This ensures that your zucchinis cook evenly and achieve a delicious golden brown color.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

1. Wash the zucchinis thoroughly under running water.
2. Cut each zucchini in half lengthwise.
3. Scoop out some flesh from the center using a spoon to create space for the filling.

Step 3: Make the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine crumbled feta cheese, strained Greek yogurt, chopped spring onion, grated Gruyere cheese, lemon zest, garlic powder, chopped parsley, olive oil, and dried oregano.
2. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 4: Stuff the Zucchini

1. Spoon the filling mixture into each hollowed-out zucchini half.
2. Drizzle a little olive oil on top for added flavor.

Step 5: Bake the Zucchini

Place the stuffed zucchinis in a baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until they are tender and lightly browned on top.

Enjoy your delicious feta cheese stuffed zucchini as an appetizer or light meal!

How to Serve Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini

Feta cheese stuffed zucchini is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.

With a Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully, balancing the richness of the stuffed zucchini.

Accompanied by Roasted Vegetables

• Serve with a medley of roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers and carrots, for added flavor and color on the plate.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle additional chopped parsley or mint on top before serving for an extra burst of freshness and color.

As Part of a Mezze Platter

• Include the stuffed zucchini on a mezze platter alongside hummus, olives, and pita bread for a lovely sharing option during gatherings.

With Quinoa or Rice

• Serve over a bed of quinoa or rice to add substance to the meal while soaking up any delicious juices.

How to Perfect Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini

To ensure your feta cheese stuffed zucchini turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips that enhance flavor and presentation.

• Choose firm zucchinis: Select zucchinis that are firm and free from blemishes for the best texture after cooking.
• Drain excess moisture: After salting the zucchini halves, let them drain for a few minutes to remove excess water, preventing sogginess.
• Mix cheeses thoroughly: Combine feta and Gruyere well to ensure even distribution of flavors throughout the stuffing.
• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to add other herbs like thyme or dill for additional layers of flavor that complement the dish.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your filling before stuffing; you can always add more garlic powder or lemon zest for a more pronounced taste.
• Bake until golden: Keep an eye on the zucchini while baking; it should be tender with a golden top for optimal texture and appearance.

Best Side Dishes for Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini

Feta cheese stuffed zucchini can be complemented by various side dishes that elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Tzatziki Sauce: A refreshing yogurt-based sauce made with cucumbers and garlic adds creaminess and coolness alongside your dish.
2. Pita Bread: Warm pita is perfect for scooping up any stuffing that may fall out, making each bite enjoyable.
3. Greek Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad with olives, tomatoes, and feta brings Mediterranean flavors together beautifully.
4. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus offers a crunchy contrast to the soft zucchini filling.
5. Couscous with Vegetables: Fluffy couscous tossed with seasonal vegetables provides great texture and complements the dish well.
6. Roasted Chickpeas: Crunchy roasted chickpeas seasoned with spices add protein and crunch, enhancing the overall meal experience.
7. Lemon Quinoa Salad: A bright lemon-flavored quinoa salad brings zest while being healthy and filling.
8. Stuffed Grape Leaves: These traditional bites filled with rice and herbs pair wonderfully with the flavors of Greek cuisine.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making feta cheese stuffed zucchini, it’s easy to run into common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Preheating: Not preheating your oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to ensure consistent results.

• Overstuffing the Zucchini: Stuffing too much filling can cause overflow and messy presentation. Stick to a reasonable amount of filling for each zucchini.

• Ignoring Drainage: If you don’t drain your Greek yogurt properly, the filling may become too watery. Use a strainer or cheesecloth to remove excess moisture.

• Choosing Low-Quality Cheese: Using subpar feta can affect the dish’s flavor. Opt for a high-quality feta cheese for the best taste.

• Overbaking: Baking for too long can make the zucchini mushy. Keep an eye on cooking times and test for doneness regularly.

• Not Adding Seasoning: A lack of seasoning can lead to bland zucchini. Don’t forget to add herbs and spices to enhance flavor!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or use a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini

• Oven: Preheat to 180°C (350°F) and reheat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals until hot (about 1-2 minutes).
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water, covering with a lid until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about feta cheese stuffed zucchini:

What is Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini?

Feta cheese stuffed zucchini is a delicious appetizer featuring zucchinis filled with feta cheese, Greek yogurt, and herbs, then baked until tender.

Can I use other cheeses?

Yes! You can substitute Gruyere with other cheeses like mozzarella or goat cheese for different flavors.

How do I customize Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach or switch up the herbs based on your preference!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Feta cheese stuffed zucchini makes an excellent meal prep option as it stores well and reheats nicely.

Can I make this dish vegan?

You can create a vegan version by using plant-based feta alternatives and dairy-free yogurt substitutes.

Final Thoughts

Feta cheese stuffed zucchini is not only light and flavorful but also versatile. You can easily customize it with various herbs or cheeses based on your taste preferences. We encourage you to try making this delightful dish that fits perfectly as an appetizer or side!