Recipe: Lamb and Herb Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Ingredients:
- 500g of lean ground lamb
- 4 medium-sized zucchinis
- 1/2 cup of quinoa
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of chopped fresh herbs (basil, mint, and parsley)
- 1/2 cup of feta cheese, crumbled
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp of olive oil
- 2 tbsp of lemon juice
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375F. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh leaving about 1/2 inch shell, chop the scooped flesh and set it aside.
- Cook quinoa as per packet instructions, set aside.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat, add onions and garlic, sauté until soft.
- Add the ground lamb, salt, pepper, and cook until browned.
- Add the chopped zucchini flesh to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes.
- Remove the pan from heat and stir in cooked quinoa, fresh herbs, feta cheese, and lemon juice.
- Stuff the zucchini boats with lamb and quinoa mixture, sprinkle some more feta on top.
- Arrange the boats in a baking dish, drizzle with remaining olive oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes until zucchini is tender and the top is golden.
Nutritional Information per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 17g
- Carbs: 20g
Plating:
Arrange two stuffed zucchini boats per person on a clean, white plate, ensuring they sit effortlessly side by side. They should be topped with a golden, tantalizing crust, showcasing the fresh herbs peeking through. Crumbled feta sprinkled on top will add a contrasting white color. A sprig of parsley can be used as a garnish at one end for an elegant finish. The vibrant green of zucchini, the warmth of the browned lamb, and the golden hue of feta cheese should provide a tantalizing color palette. The serving should appear appetizing and plentiful, prompting the desire to dive right in.