There’s something incredibly delightful about creating a delicious dish that doubles as a beautiful centerpiece for your table. For those seeking a taste of traditional French cuisine with a unique twist, our Baked Ratatouille Stuffed Zucchini is a must-try. This recipe combines the vibrant flavors of ratatouille with the wholesome goodness of zucchini, resulting in a mouthwatering dish that is as visually appealing as it is tasty. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself to a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress.
**Baked Ratatouille Stuffed Zucchini**
**Ingredients:**
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 eggplant, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tomatoes, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for topping
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Start by preparing the zucchinis. Cut off the tops of the zucchinis and slice them in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the flesh from the centers, leaving about a ¼ inch shell. Chop the scooped out zucchini flesh and set aside for later use.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the diced eggplant, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and the reserved zucchini flesh to the skillet. Cook the vegetables until they start to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in the diced tomatoes, dried thyme, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Adjust seasoning to taste.
6. Fill each hollowed-out zucchini half with the ratatouille mixture, pressing it down gently to ensure they are packed full.
7. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese generously over the stuffed zucchinis, adding an extra layer of flavor.
8. Place the stuffed zucchinis in the prepared baking dish, cover with aluminum foil, and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender.
9. Remove the foil and switch the oven to broil. Broil the zucchinis for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
10. Carefully remove the stuffed zucchinis from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this flavorful and wholesome dish as a main course or a side dish alongside crusty bread or a fresh salad.
This Baked Ratatouille Stuffed Zucchini recipe is a delicious way to elevate a classic French dish in a unique presentation. Serve it to impress guests at your next dinner party or treat yourself to a cozy homemade meal any day of the week. Bon appétit!
