Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini

Feta cheese stuffed zucchini is a delightful dish that combines the freshness of zucchini with the rich flavors of feta and Gruyere cheeses. This healthy recipe is perfect for various occasions, from casual family dinners to elegant appetizers at gatherings. The herby-lemony taste makes it not only appetizing but also a great option for those seeking light yet satisfying meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious appetizer in no time.
• Flavorful: The combination of feta, Gruyere, and herbs creates a mouth-watering dish that stands out.
• Versatile: These stuffed zucchinis work well as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light main course.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients and gluten-free, this dish aligns perfectly with health-conscious diets.
• Mediterranean Delight: Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Greek cuisine right in your kitchen.

Tools and Preparation

To make feta cheese stuffed zucchini successfully, you’ll need a few essential tools to help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and helps maintain moisture in your stuffed zucchini.
• Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining all your filling ingredients smoothly.
• Knife: Essential for cutting the zucchinis and chopping fresh herbs efficiently.

Ingredients

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

For the Zucchini Filling

• 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 ensures that when you place your stuffed zucchini inside, they cook evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

1. Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise.
2. Scoop out some of the flesh using a spoon to create space for the filling. Be careful not to break the skin.

Step 3: Make the Filling

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

Step 4: Stuff the Zucchini

1. Fill each hollowed zucchini half generously with the cheese mixture.
2. Place them in a baking dish and drizzle with a bit more olive oil if desired.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender and the tops are golden brown.

Enjoy this deliciously healthy appetizer that highlights Mediterranean flavors while being easy to prepare!

How to Serve Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini

Feta cheese stuffed zucchini makes a delightful appetizer or side dish. Its light and herby flavor pairs well with various accompaniments.

With Fresh Salad

• A crisp garden salad complements the zucchini perfectly, adding freshness and crunch.

As Part of a Mediterranean Platter

• Serve it alongside hummus, olives, and pita bread for a complete Mediterranean experience.

Drizzled with Balsamic Glaze

• A drizzle of balsamic glaze enhances the flavors and adds a sweet touch.

Paired with Grilled Meat

• This dish works wonderfully as a side for grilled chicken or lamb, balancing the savoriness of the meat.

Garnished with Extra Herbs

• Top with additional parsley or oregano for an extra burst of flavor.

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How to Perfect Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini

To make your feta cheese stuffed zucchini even better, follow these handy tips.

• Choose fresh zucchinis: Look for firm zucchinis without blemishes to ensure the best texture and flavor.

• Drain yogurt well: Straining the Greek yogurt removes excess moisture, keeping your filling from becoming watery.

• Mix cheeses thoroughly: Combining feta and Gruyere evenly ensures every bite has a perfect cheesy taste.

• Experiment with spices: Try adding crushed red pepper or fresh basil for an extra kick or different flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini

Feta cheese stuffed zucchini pairs beautifully with various side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Quinoa Salad: A light and nutritious salad made with quinoa, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes offers a refreshing contrast.

2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a colorful addition that complements the zucchinis’ taste.

3. Garlic Bread: Crisp garlic bread is a classic choice that adds crunch and richness to your meal.

4. Tzatziki Sauce: This cool cucumber-yogurt sauce complements the feta’s tanginess while adding creaminess.

5. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs rounds out the meal nicely while being easy to prepare.

6. Greek Pasta Salad: A pasta salad loaded with olives, feta, and veggies brings Mediterranean flair to your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing feta cheese stuffed zucchini, avoid these common pitfalls for the best results.

• Ingredients: Forgetting to measure ingredients accurately can lead to an unbalanced flavor. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups.
• Overstuffing: Packing too much filling into the zucchini may cause it to overflow. Use a moderate amount of filling to ensure even cooking.
• Skipping Seasoning: Neglecting herbs and spices can result in bland zucchini. Be sure to use the suggested seasoning for a flavorful dish.
• Ignoring Cooking Time: Overcooking or undercooking can ruin the texture. Keep an eye on the timer and check for doneness regularly.
• Using Old Zucchini: Using stale or overripe zucchinis can affect taste and texture. Choose fresh, firm zucchinis for the best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover feta cheese stuffed zucchini in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini

• Wrap each stuffed zucchini individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini

• Oven: Preheat to 180°C (350°F) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2–3 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat and cover, warming until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about feta cheese stuffed zucchini that might help you.

Can I use different cheeses in feta cheese stuffed zucchini?

You can substitute feta with other cheeses like ricotta or mozzarella, but it will change the flavor profile slightly.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Feta cheese stuffed zucchini is great for meal prep. Just store them properly as mentioned above.

How do I make this recipe vegan?

To make feta cheese stuffed zucchini vegan, replace feta with a plant-based cheese alternative and use dairy-free yogurt.

What can I serve with feta cheese stuffed zucchini?

These stuffed zucchinis pair well with a side salad or quinoa for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Feta cheese stuffed zucchini is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect as an appetizer or light main dish. You can customize it by adding other vegetables or spices of your choice. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!