Lebanese Stuffed Zucchini With Spinach
In Lebanese cuisine, stuffed vegetables are a beloved tradition, combining fresh ingredients with flavorful spices for a delicious and comforting meal. Today, we're bringing you a delightful twist on this classic dish with our recipe for Lebanese Stuffed Zucchini with Spinach. This recipe showcases the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean, blending the earthiness of zucchinis with the brightness of spinach and a harmonious blend of herbs and spices. It's the perfect dish to serve at family gatherings or as a satisfying weeknight dinner that will transport your taste buds to Lebanon's sun-soaked landscapes.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
-
Trim off the tops of each zucchini, then cut them in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, carefully scoop out the insides of the zucchinis, creating a hollow center for the stuffing. Set aside the zucchini flesh for later use.
-
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
-
Chop the reserved zucchini flesh into small pieces and add it to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the zucchini softens.
-
Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
-
Stir in the diced tomatoes, cooked rice, ground cinnamon, allspice, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the flavors. Squeeze the lemon juice over the mixture for a pop of freshness.
-
Spoon the filling mixture into the hollowed-out zucchinis, pressing down gently to pack the stuffing tightly.
-
Place the stuffed zucchinis in a baking dish, drizzle with a touch of olive oil, and cover the dish with aluminum foil.
-
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, until the zucchinis are tender and the filling is heated through.
-
Remove the foil in the last 10 minutes of baking to allow the tops to lightly brown.
-
Once done, garnish the Lebanese Stuffed Zucchini with Spinach with chopped fresh parsley.
Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 1 stuffed zucchini half (approx. 180 g)- Calories
- 220 kcal
- Total Fat
- 7 g
- Saturated Fat
- 1 g
- Cholesterol
- 0 mg
- Sodium
- 150 mg
- Total Carbohydrate
- 35 g
- Dietary Fiber
- 6 g
- Sugars
- 7 g
- Protein
- 6 g
Enjoy these flavorful and nutritious stuffed zucchinis hot from the oven, accompanied by a dollop of yogurt or a side of tabbouleh salad. This dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection, bringing a taste of Lebanon's culinary heritage to your table. Gather your loved ones and savor the delightful combination of flavors that these stuffed zucchinis offer, making every meal a special occasion.