Spinach, Mushroom, and Ricotta Stuffed Zucchini Boats

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Ingredients:

– 2 medium zucchini

– 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

– 2 cups fresh spinach (or ¼ cup thawed frozen spinach)

– ½ cup sliced  mushrooms

– 1 teaspoon minced garlic

– 1 tablespoon fresh chopped basil

– ½ cup ricotta cheese

– ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

– ¼ teaspoon kosher salt

– Pinch of black pepper

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Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
  2. Prepare the Zucchini:
    Slice the zucchini in half lengthwise, then scoop out the seeds and some flesh to create a “boat” shape, leaving a ¼-inch border of zucchini. Place the zucchini halves, cut side up, on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the zucchini with a little olive oil and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.
  3. Prepare the Filling:
    Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat in a skillet. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the spinach (ensure frozen spinach is thawed and well-drained) and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh chopped basil. Let the mixture cool slightly.
  4. Mix the Ricotta Filling:
    In a mixing bowl, combine the spinach and mushroom mixture with ricotta cheese. Mix well until evenly combined.
  5. Stuff the Zucchini Boats:
    Generously fill each zucchini half with the ricotta, spinach, and mushroom mixture. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the filled zucchini.
  6. Bake the Zucchini Boats:
    Place the stuffed zucchini boats on the prepared baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden, and the zucchini is tender.
  7. Serve and Garnish:
    Remove from the oven and allow the zucchini boats to cool slightly. If desired, garnish with additional fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
    Enjoy

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