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Spinach Mushroom Ricotta Zucchini

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These Spinach Mushroom and Ricotta Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a wholesome vegetarian dish featuring tender baked zucchini filled with creamy ricotta, sautéed mushrooms, and fresh spinach, topped with gooey mozzarella and Parmesan. Perfect as a meatless main or hearty side, they’re easy to make ahead and packed with Italian-inspired flavor.

Ingredients

  • 4–6 medium fresh zucchini
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk recommended)
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 cup thawed, drained frozen spinach)
  • 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped (cremini or white)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for crunch)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • Extra Parmesan cheese, for topping

Instructions

  1. Prep zucchini: Cut zucchinis lengthwise and scoop out centers to create boats. Place in a greased baking dish, season with salt and pepper, and set aside.
  2. Cook vegetables: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté mushrooms for 5–7 minutes until browned. Add garlic; cook for 1–2 minutes. Stir in spinach until wilted.
  3. Make filling: In a bowl, combine the cooled mushroom-spinach mixture with ricotta, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  4. Fill zucchini: Spoon ricotta mixture into zucchini boats, pressing lightly to fill.
  5. Top: Sprinkle mozzarella, extra Parmesan, and breadcrumbs (if using) over the filling.
  6. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20–25 minutes, until zucchini is tender and topping is golden and bubbly.
  7. Serve: Garnish with basil or parsley and serve hot.

Notes

  • Swap ricotta with cottage cheese for a lighter option.
  • Use kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach.
  • Make dairy-free with vegan ricotta and mozzarella.
  • Skip breadcrumbs for a low-carb, gluten-free version.
  • Add quinoa or lentils to the filling for extra protein.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/spinach-mushroom-ricotta-zucchini/