Spinach, Mushroom & Ricotta Stuffed Zucchini Boats (Easy Healthy Baked Recipe)
Looking for a healthy stuffed zucchini recipe that’s easy, vegetarian, and packed with flavor? These Spinach, Mushroom & Ricotta Stuffed Zucchini Boats are the perfect light dinner or meatless main dish. Made with fresh zucchini, creamy ricotta cheese, sautéed mushrooms, and nutrient-rich spinach, this baked zucchini recipe is low-carb, high-protein, and family-friendly.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a wholesome Mediterranean-inspired meal!
Recipe Details
- Servings: 4 people
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchini
- 200 g fresh spinach (or thawed frozen spinach, well drained)
- 150 g mushrooms, finely diced
- 200 g ricotta cheese
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 50 g grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (parsley, basil, or thyme)
How to Make Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Prepare the Zucchini
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Wash the zucchini and slice them in half lengthwise.
- Using a spoon, gently scoop out the center, leaving about 1 cm border to create “boats.”
- Chop the zucchini flesh and set aside.
Make the Spinach Ricotta Filling
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté the onion until translucent.
- Add garlic, mushrooms, and chopped zucchini flesh. Cook 5–7 minutes until tender and moisture evaporates.
- Stir in spinach and cook 2–3 minutes until wilted.
- Remove from heat and mix in ricotta, fresh herbs, salt, and pepper.
Stuff & Bake
- Fill each zucchini boat with the ricotta-spinach mixture.
- Arrange in a baking dish.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for a golden, crispy topping.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, until zucchini is tender and lightly browned.
Serve hot with a fresh green salad or rice pilaf for a complete, balanced meal.
Health Benefits of Stuffed Zucchini
✔ Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly – Zucchini is naturally low in carbohydrates.
✔ High in Fiber – Supports digestion and keeps you full longer.
✔ Rich in Protein – Ricotta adds satisfying plant-based protein.
✔ Loaded with Antioxidants – Spinach and mushrooms provide vitamins and minerals.
✔ Vegetarian & Gluten-Free – Perfect for meatles meals.
Expert Tips for Perfect Baked Zucchini
- Avoid watery zucchini: Lightly salt the zucchini halves and let sit for 10 minutes before stuffing. Pat dry.
- Extra flavor boost: Add a pinch of nutmeg to the ricotta mixture.
- Make it meal-prep friendly: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Add crunch: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts on top before serving.
- Vegan option: Replace ricotta with seasoned silken tofu or thick plant-based cream.
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