Savory Quinoa Stuffed Zucchini

Name: Savory Quinoa Stuffed Zucchini
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium zucchinis; 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen); 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional); Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Light & Fresh Meals

Savory Quinoa Stuffed Zucchini is a delicious and healthy dish that combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with fresh vegetables, all baked inside tender zucchini. Perfect as a main course or a side dish!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-05T00:06:30.816Z

Discover the delightful combination of flavors in our Savory Quinoa Stuffed Zucchini. This dish is not only nutritious but also visually appealing, making it a great option for family dinners or gatherings. The zucchini boats are filled with a savory mixture of quinoa, vegetables, and spices, providing a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Nutritious and filling, perfect for a healthy meal
Versatile; can be customized with your favorite vegetables
A beautiful presentation that impresses at any dinner table

      

The Health Benefits of Quinoa

Quinoa is often hailed as a superfood, and for good reason. This ancient grain is packed with protein, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans looking to meet their protein needs. Unlike many grains, quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids that our bodies cannot produce on their own. This makes it a fantastic addition to any meal, helping to keep you full and satisfied.

In addition to being a great protein source, quinoa is rich in fiber. A fiber-rich diet promotes healthy digestion and can help prevent constipation. Fiber also plays a crucial role in maintaining stable blood sugar levels, making quinoa a smart choice for those managing diabetes or weight. By incorporating this nutritious grain into your meals, you can support overall health while enjoying a delicious dish.

Customizing Your Stuffed Zucchini

One of the best aspects of Savory Quinoa Stuffed Zucchini is its versatility. You can easily customize the filling to suit your taste preferences or to use up any leftover vegetables you have in your fridge. For instance, try adding diced tomatoes, spinach, or mushrooms to the mix. You can also experiment with different spices, such as chili powder for a kick or Italian herbs for a Mediterranean flair.

If you're looking to boost the flavor even further, consider adding cooked ground meat or beans to the quinoa mixture. This will not only add extra protein but also create a heartier dish. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a great weeknight meal that can easily adapt to your family’s preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Savory Quinoa Stuffed Zucchini can be enjoyed in numerous ways, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. For a light lunch or dinner, serve the stuffed zucchinis alongside a fresh green salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette. This adds a refreshing balance to the warm, savory flavors of the dish.

For a more substantial meal, pair the stuffed zucchinis with a side of roasted vegetables or garlic bread. The combination of flavors and textures will delight your taste buds. Additionally, if you're hosting a gathering, consider serving these stuffed zucchinis as an appetizer. Just cut them into smaller portions, and they’ll be a hit at your next dinner party!

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Zucchini

4 medium zucchinis
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
1 bell pepper, diced
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to rinse the quinoa before cooking to remove any bitterness.

Instructions

Prepare the Zucchini

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the center, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick. Set aside the scooped flesh.

Cook the Quinoa

In a saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it stand for 5 minutes.

Sauté Vegetables

In a skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.

Stir in the scooped zucchini flesh, corn, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, cooking for another 3 minutes.

Combine and Stuff

Fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork and add it to the vegetable mixture. Mix well. Stuff the zucchini halves with the quinoa mixture and place them in a baking dish. If desired, sprinkle cheese on top.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious stuffed zucchinis!

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, Savory Quinoa Stuffed Zucchini stores beautifully. Allow the stuffed zucchinis to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes them a convenient option for meal prep or quick lunches throughout the week.

When reheating, simply pop them in the microwave for a couple of minutes or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. If you want to revive the crispness of the zucchini, reheating in the oven is the best option, ensuring you retain that delicious texture.

Why Zucchini is a Great Choice

Zucchini is not only a delicious vegetable but also a nutritious one. Low in calories and high in water content, zucchini is a great addition to any healthy diet. It's an excellent source of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium, which all contribute to overall health and wellness.

Moreover, zucchini is incredibly versatile. It can be grilled, sautéed, or baked, making it a perfect base for various dishes. When used in stuffed recipes like this one, zucchini provides a delightful texture and flavor that complements the savory quinoa filling perfectly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed zucchini in advance and store them in the fridge. Just bake them before serving.

→ What can I substitute for quinoa?

You can use rice, couscous, or bulgur as a substitute for quinoa.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free vegetable broth, this dish is gluten-free.

→ Can I freeze the stuffed zucchini?

Yes, you can freeze the stuffed zucchini before baking. Just make sure to thaw and bake them when ready to eat.