When summer rolls around zucchini boats are a must on the dinner menu, especially when we hit mid summer and there is a plethora of zucchini to be used up. You can only eat so much sautéed zucchini then it’s time to move onto something more exciting like these! They are brimming with fresh Italian flavors and the sausage makes them perfectly filling. They’re easy to make, the only tedious part is removing the centers to create the boat shapes, but once you get the hang of it it’s a breeze. They’re definitely worth the extra little bit of effort. This recipe turns bland zucchini into something worthy of dinner praises. Looking for another great way to use up zucchini? Try my Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread for dessert!
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Sausage Zucchini Boats Ingredients and Possible Substitutes
Zucchini: Look for those even in size, about 8 – 9 oz each. The should be big enough to hollow out and add filling, but not too large or you won’t be able to fit them in the baking dish. Olive oil: Another oil such as avocado oil will work fine here. Italian turkey sausage: Italian pork sausage can be used instead, just drain of excess fat after browning. Garlic: In a pinch 1 tsp granulated garlic will work in this recipe. Yellow onion: Red onion would work here too. Canned diced tomatoes: I like the petite cut for a more uniform size throughout but regular cut will work. Another option is to use 3 fresh roma tomatoes, diced. Italian seasoning: Another option is to use 1 tsp dried basil and 1 tsp dried oregano. Panko bread crumbs: Standard dried bread crumbs will work too I just prefer the extra crisp texture of the panko. Mozzarella cheese: Monterey jack could be used in place of mozzarella. Parmesan cheese: Romano cheese will work here as well. Parsley: This ingredient is optional, it can be omitted if you don’t have any. Another option is to use fresh basil or use 2 tsp dried parsley.
How to Make Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Tips:
Use up all the filling and topping, piling it high if needed. Bake twice, once before filling and once after filling. Pierce through zucchini with a knife to test for tenderness. If you do find they are too big to fit into one baking dish then just use another small baking dish.
What to Eat with Zucchini Boats
I recommend serving with another veggies such as corn on the cob or a side salad. Another tasty option is garlic bread.
How to Reduce Carbs
If you are looking to cut out some carbs in this recipe you can omit the panko bread crumbs. If doing so then drain tomatoes well.
Can they be frozen?
Yes. Though the textures will change a bit zucchini boats can be frozen after baking. Freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
How to Reheat
The easiest way to reheat zucchini boats is in the microwave. Reheat individual servings (1 – 2 boats) in the microwave on a microwave safe plate for about 1 to 2 minutes until heated through.
Five More Must Try Zucchini Boat Recipes
Chicken Enchilada Zucchini Boats Lasagna Stuffed Zucchini Boats Philly Cheesesteak Zucchini Boats Pizza Zucchini Boats Taco Zucchini Boats
