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Bruschetta Quinoa Zucchini Boats

Bruschetta Quinoa Zucchini Boats

The ultimate summer dish, Bruschetta Quinoa Zucchini Boats are packed with fresh flavors and textures. Filled with a savory quinoa mix and topped with melting cheese, they are the perfect way to brighten up your dinner table. Try these for an easy weeknight meal that everyone will love!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Side Dishes
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 360

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 cups cooked quinoa
  • 1 pint tomatoes, halved or quartered
  • 1 shallot, diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 0.25 cups finely grated parmesan cheese, plus extra for sprinkling
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons chopped herbs, like basil or parsley, plus more for sprinkling
  • to taste kosher salt and pepper
  • 4 medium zucchini, sliced in half lengthwise
  • to taste balsamic glaze, for drizzling
  • 4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, chopped

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Grater
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Chef's Knife
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Cutting Board

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F.
  2. In a large bowl, stir together the cooked quinoa, tomatoes, shallot, garlic, parmesan cheese, olive oil, herbs and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
  3. Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise. With a spoon, scoop out the center to create a well in each half.
  4. Sprinkle each hollowed zucchini with salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic powder for extra flavor.
  5. Drizzle each boat with balsamic glaze.
  6. Fill each zucchini half generously with the quinoa mixture, packing it in to ensure every bite is flavorful. Top each filled boat with cubes of mozzarella cheese.
  7. Arrange the stuffed zucchini boats on a baking sheet and place them in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melty and bubbly, and the zucchini is tender.
  8. Once baked, remove from the oven and sprinkle with extra parmesan cheese and fresh herbs. Drizzle with additional balsamic glaze if desired.

Notes

  • Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
  • Tip 2: These zucchini boats can be frozen before baking. Just assemble and freeze them. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer.
  • Tip 3: Serve these boats with a simple side salad or crusty bread to round out the meal.
  • Tip 4: Try using different cheeses such as feta or goat cheese for a unique flavor twist.
  • Tip 5: Include black beans or chickpeas in the filling for an extra protein boost.