Zucchini Boats

I was introduced to zucchini boats a few years ago by a friend and have been intrigued ever since. Using zucchini as vessels for different fillings creates endless healthy meal options.

How to make a zucchini boat:
1. Buy large zucchini.
2. Trim ends and then cut in half, length-wise.
3. Scoop out insides with spoon (and discard) to create boat.
4. Fill with goodies.

Bread Crumb Stuffing Boat: My first foray with the boats was pretty simple. I used this recipe as a guideline but also added herbs (thyme and oregano) and some Italian sausage to the breadcrumb filling.

Taco Boats: Then I got more adventurous and subbed in taco meat as the filling. I used this recipe (but used real meat instead of tempeh). I love tortillas but wasn't even missing them when I ate this alternative taco.

Pizza Boat: I was inspired by this recipe for Pizza Quinoa Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms and stuffed the zucchini with that filling (and added onions and sausage-my usual pizza toppings).

There are infinite ways to fill the boats. I was even thinking of a breakfast option with home fries, scrambled eggs, bacon/breakfast sausage topped with cheese. 

Just sauté your choice of filling, add it to the scooped-out, raw zucchini and cook in a preheated 400 degree oven for 15-20 minutes, or until zucchini is cooked through. Easy, healthy and delicious!