Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini

Feta cheese stuffed zucchini is a delightful dish that combines fresh flavors with nutritious ingredients. This recipe is perfect for various occasions, whether you need a light appetizer, a side for your main course, or a healthy snack. The unique blend of feta, Gruyere, and Greek yogurt creates a creamy filling that complements the tender zucchini beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Nutritious: Feta cheese stuffed zucchini is packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a wholesome choice for health-conscious eaters.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have this dish ready in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Option: This recipe can easily be adapted to include your favorite herbs or spices, allowing you to customize it to your taste.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The herby-lemony flavor combined with creamy cheeses makes every bite deliciously satisfying.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week as a quick snack or side.

Tools and Preparation

To make feta cheese stuffed zucchini successfully, having the right tools is essential. These tools will help streamline the cooking process and ensure that your dish turns out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A sturdy baking dish ensures even cooking and helps retain moisture in the zucchinis.
• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without making a mess.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes it easier to slice the zucchinis evenly for stuffing.
• Grater: Using a grater for cheese helps achieve the right texture for melting and flavor distribution.

Ingredients

For the Zucchini

• 675 grams (3 medium) zucchinis
• 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 step ensures that your zucchinis cook evenly once they are stuffed.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

• Wash the zucchinis thoroughly under cold water.
• Cut each zucchini in half lengthwise, creating boats for stuffing.
• Scoop out some of the flesh using a spoon, leaving enough flesh intact for support.

Step 3: Make the Filling

• In a mixing bowl, combine crumbled feta cheese, Greek yogurt, grated Gruyere cheese, lemon zest, garlic powder, chopped parsley, olive oil, and dried oregano.
• Chop spring onion finely and add it to the mixture. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Stuff the Zucchini

• Generously fill each zucchini boat with the prepared filling mixture.
• Drizzle a little olive oil over the top of each stuffed zucchini for added flavor.

Step 5: Bake

Place the stuffed zucchinis into a baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until tender and golden brown on top. Enjoy your delicious feta cheese stuffed zucchini!

How to Serve Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini

Feta cheese stuffed zucchini makes for a delightful appetizer that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• A light green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the flavors of the stuffed zucchini beautifully.

Serve with Grilled Meat

• Grilled chicken or lamb pairs well, providing a hearty option that balances the lightness of the zucchini.

Accompany with Hummus

• A side of creamy hummus adds a Middle Eastern twist and offers a nice texture contrast alongside the stuffed zucchini.

Drizzle with Extra Olive Oil

• A drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving enhances the dish’s flavor and adds richness.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh parsley or dill on top for an extra pop of color and freshness that elevates the presentation.

How to Perfect Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini

To achieve the best results with your feta cheese stuffed zucchini, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose firm zucchinis: Select zucchinis that are firm and free from blemishes to ensure they hold their shape during baking.

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or dill will add vibrant flavor compared to dried alternatives.

• Don’t overstuff: Fill each zucchini half evenly but avoid overstuffing to prevent them from breaking while cooking.

• Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on the zucchinis as they bake; you want them tender but not mushy.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust spices or add new ones like cumin for a unique twist on flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini

Feta cheese stuffed zucchini pairs well with various side dishes that enhance its Mediterranean flavors. Here’s a list of options to consider.

1. Greek Tzatziki: A refreshing yogurt-based sauce made with cucumber and garlic, perfect for dipping.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light salad featuring quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta crumbles for a wholesome addition.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized provide a sweet contrast to the savory zucchini.
4. Pita Bread: Warm pita bread can be served alongside, ideal for scooping up any leftover filling or dips.
5. Baba Ganoush: This smoky eggplant dip complements the flavors of the zucchini while adding creaminess.
6. Lemon Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with lemon zest and herbs makes for a zesty side that pairs wonderfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Feta cheese stuffed zucchini can be a delightful dish if prepared correctly. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making this recipe.

• Missing the right texture: Ensure that you don’t overcook the zucchini. Aim for a tender yet firm texture to retain a pleasant bite.
• Not seasoning adequately: Don’t forget to season your stuffing. A pinch of salt and pepper enhances flavors, so taste as you go.
• Overstuffing the zucchini: Be cautious about how much filling you use. Overstuffing can lead to spilling during baking, which makes cleanup harder.
• Ignoring ingredient freshness: Always opt for fresh ingredients like herbs and vegetables. Fresh produce elevates the overall flavor of your dish.
• Skipping the resting time: Allow your stuffed zucchinis to rest after cooking. This helps flavors meld together and improves the eating experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep in the fridge to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini

• Wrap individually in plastic wrap or foil before placing in a freezer-safe bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini

• Oven: Preheat to 180°C (350°F) and bake until heated through (about 15-20 minutes).
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in intervals of 1 minute until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet with a splash of water; cover and heat on low until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about feta cheese stuffed zucchini.

Can I use other types of cheese in Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini?

Yes, feel free to substitute feta with other cheeses like ricotta or mozzarella for different flavors.

How do I make Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini vegan?

To make this dish vegan, substitute feta with tofu or a nut-based cheese, and use a plant-based yogurt.

What can I serve with Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini?

These stuffed zucchinis pair well with a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Can I prepare Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

Feta cheese stuffed zucchini is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different herbs or spices based on your preference. This dish is perfect as an appetizer or a light meal, encouraging you to experiment with various fillings. Try it out and enjoy the delightful flavors!