Stuffed Round Zucchini: A Savory Italian Delight
Stuffed zucchini, or “Zucchine Ripiene”, is an exquisite dish from Italy that brings together the earthiness of zucchini with the richness of savory meats and cheese. Itโs a perfect option for a hearty second course and makes a fantastic addition to any meal, whether for family dinners or special occasions. The combination of tender zucchini, flavorful ground pork, sausage, and aromatic herbs, all baked to perfection, ensures a meal that’s satisfying and delicious.
Serves: 4
Category: Main Course
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Round Zucchini | 4 |
| Ground Pork | 100g |
| Sausage (Italian or other) | 100g |
| Egg | 1 |
| Parmigiano Reggiano DOP (Grated) | 30g |
| Fresh Parsley (Chopped) | 1 tbsp |
| Black Pepper | To taste |
| Bread (Crumbled) | 20g |
| Fine Salt | To taste |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1 tbsp |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
Start by carefully washing the zucchinis under cold running water. Pat them dry with a clean towel. Slice the top off each zucchini, making a “lid” to later cover the stuffed vegetable. Next, use a paring knife to score the interior of the zucchini, forming a cross pattern in the pulp. With a melon baller or small spoon, carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving about 1 cm of the white part of the zucchini intact, ensuring a sturdy shell to hold the filling. Set aside the scooped-out pulp for the filling.
Step 2: Season the Zucchini
Once the zucchinis are hollowed out, sprinkle a pinch of salt inside each cavity. This helps to remove any excess moisture from the zucchini and enhances its flavor during the baking process.
Step 3: Prepare the Stuffing
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground pork and sausage. Be sure to break up the sausage into small bits if it is in link form. Add the finely chopped zucchini pulp into the bowl with the meats. To this, add the beaten egg, chopped parsley, crumbled bread, grated Parmigiano Reggiano, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly, ensuring the mixture is well-combined and slightly moist. If the filling feels too dry, you can add a splash of water or a small drizzle of olive oil to moisten it.
Step 4: Stuff the Zucchini
Preheat your oven to 170ยฐC (338ยฐF). Lightly grease a baking dish with 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil. Now, take the hollowed-out zucchinis and carefully stuff each one with the prepared filling, pressing gently to pack the stuffing well into the zucchini shells. Fill them up to the very top, ensuring the mixture stays inside during the cooking process. Don’t forget to top each stuffed zucchini with its lid (the piece you cut off earlier).
Step 5: Bake
Place the stuffed zucchinis in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are snugly placed but not overcrowded. Drizzle a little more olive oil over the tops to help them brown and crisp during baking. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender, and the tops are golden brown and crispy. The dish should have a beautiful golden crust, signaling that itโs ready to be enjoyed.
Step 6: Serve
Once baked, remove the stuffed zucchinis from the oven. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve these delicious stuffed zucchinis warm, garnished with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan if desired.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 20g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 5g |
| Sodium | 350mg |
| Cholesterol | 50mg |
Cooking Tips:
- Choosing Zucchini: Opt for medium-sized round zucchinis that are firm and free of blemishes. They should have thick skin to hold the stuffing well during baking.
- Variations: For a lighter version, you can swap the ground pork and sausage for lean ground turkey or chicken. You could also experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or ricotta, for a creamier filling.
- Make-Ahead: This dish is perfect for making ahead. Prepare the zucchinis up to the point of baking, then cover them and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven and let them cook to perfection.
Why You’ll Love Stuffed Zucchini
The beauty of Zucchine Ripiene lies in its versatility. The zucchini itself is mild in flavor, allowing the rich, savory stuffing to shine. The stuffing can be adapted based on what’s available, making it a fantastic dish to customize based on personal taste preferences or dietary needs. Plus, itโs a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your meal while keeping the dish hearty and satisfying. Whether you’re a zucchini lover or a skeptic, this dish is sure to win you over with its delightful combination of textures and flavors.
Pairing Suggestions:
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio pairs wonderfully with the flavors of stuffed zucchini. These wines balance the richness of the pork and sausage while complementing the freshness of the zucchini.
- Side Dishes: Serve alongside a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette to add a touch of brightness, or pair it with roasted potatoes for a more substantial meal.
By following this simple yet flavorful recipe, you’ll have a dish thatโs perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy, satisfying dinner at home. The stuffed zucchini offers both a wonderful flavor profile and a visual appeal, making it a dish that stands out on any table. Enjoy!
