These meaty stuffed zucchinis make a wonderful main dish. Not only delicious but a beautiful presentation for your dinner party!
Al dente pasta (optional)*
1 Easy Peasy Marinara recipe following box instructions:
1-28 oz can Crushed Tomatoes
2-1/2 cups water
1 Easy Peasy seasoning packet
Simmer while making meatball mixture and preparing zucchinis.
1 Easy Peasy Meatball recipe:
1-1/2 pounds ground beef
1/2 pound ground pork
1/3 cup bread crumbs
1 egg, beaten
1 Easy Peasy Seasoning packet
Set aside for filling prepared zucchinis.
Preheat oven to 350°
Cut in half lengthwise. In shallow baking dish with ½” water lay zucchini cut side down and microwave on high for 2 minutes. Gently remove zucchinis and drain on paper towel cut side down to cool. Scoop the seeded center creating a hollowed out or “boat” look. Fill each hollowed zucchini with the meatball mix till center is slightly higher then edges. In the same shallow baking dish used above, remove water and dry. Spray with cooking spray and cover bottom with ½” of marinara sauce. Place each zucchini with the meat side up in the center of the dish. Spoon more marinara on top of each zucchini, cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Uncover and top each zucchini with mozzarella cheese. Return to the oven for 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden. Remove from oven, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh julienne cut basil leaves. Serve immediately with remaining marinara.
A side of pasta and steamed vegetable of your choice will compliment your meal.
Serves 4 (2 each)
*Pasta Preparations:
Bring to a boil 4 quarts of water, add 1 tsp. canola or vegetable oil and 1 TBS salt
Prepare dry pasta of choice to al dente stage, approximately 6-8 minutes.
(refer to package instructions for the amount of time is required for this stage)
Drain well and place in a warm serving bowl and drizzle with olive oil, toss
