Stuffed summer squash is a versatile, delicious way to showcase the bounty of the season. With tender squash filled with a savory mixture of meat, vegetables, and cheese, this dish is both comforting and nutritious. Whether you’re looking for a light dinner, an elegant side dish, or a creative way to use summer squash, this recipe is a perfect choice.
Ingredients
- Squash:
- 4 medium summer squash (zucchini or yellow squash)
- Filling:
- 1/2 pound ground beef, turkey, or sausage
- 1/2 cup onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Baking dish
- Spoon (for scooping out squash)
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
Instructions
- Prepare the Squash:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the squash in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and some of the flesh, creating a cavity for the filling. Reserve the scooped flesh and finely chop it.
- Cook the Filling:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté onion, bell pepper, garlic, and the chopped squash flesh until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Return the meat to the skillet and stir in cooked rice or quinoa, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix well and remove from heat.
- Stuff the Squash:
- Place the squash halves in a baking dish, cut side up. Spoon the filling into each squash, packing it gently.
- Sprinkle the tops with breadcrumbs and cheese.
- Bake the Squash:
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Garnish with additional parsley and serve warm.
Tips
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the meat and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or diced tomatoes.
- Cheese Variations: Try feta, cheddar, or gouda for a different flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the filling and stuff the squash ahead of time. Store in the refrigerator and bake when ready.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with a crisp green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Stuffed summer squash is a delicious, nutritious dish that highlights the flavors of the season. With its tender squash and hearty filling, it’s sure to be a hit on your table. Enjoy this dish as a meal on its own or as a side to complement your summer feasts!
Delicious Stuffed Summer Squash – A Perfect Seasonal Dish
Savor the flavors of summer with stuffed summer squash! Filled with a hearty, flavorful mixture, this dish is perfect for a light meal or as a side dish.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Baking dish
- Spoon (for scooping out squash)
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- Squash:
- 4 medium summer squash zucchini or yellow squash
- Filling:
- 1/2 pound ground beef turkey, or sausage
- 1/2 cup onion finely diced
- 1/2 cup bell pepper finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Squash:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the squash in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and some of the flesh, creating a cavity for the filling. Reserve the scooped flesh and finely chop it.
- Cook the Filling:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté onion, bell pepper, garlic, and the chopped squash flesh until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Return the meat to the skillet and stir in cooked rice or quinoa, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix well and remove from heat.
- Stuff the Squash:
- Place the squash halves in a baking dish, cut side up. Spoon the filling into each squash, packing it gently.
- Sprinkle the tops with breadcrumbs and cheese.
- Bake the Squash:
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Garnish with additional parsley and serve warm.
Leave a Reply