Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that’s both healthy and satisfying, you’ve come to the right place! Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini is one of those recipes that feels special yet is so easy to whip up any day of the week. This dish brings together fresh zucchini and creamy feta, creating a light but filling meal perfect for family gatherings or busy weeknights. It’s like a hug in a bowl, offering comfort and flavor without weighing you down.

Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or enjoying it as a main course, this recipe shines with its herby-lemony goodness. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these zucchini ready for the oven in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy filling, making it a great way to sneak in some veggies.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep these stuffed zucchinis ahead of time and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of feta, Gruyere, and Greek yogurt creates a creamy filling bursting with flavor.
• Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with nutrients from fresh ingredients, this dish is gluten-free and guilt-free!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients for this delightful dish! You’ll find everything easily accessible at your local grocery store. Here’s what you need:

For the Zucchini Filling

• 675 grams (3 medium) zucchinis
• 150 grams (1 cup + 1 tbsp) crumbled feta cheese
• 90 grams (½ cup) Greek yogurt strained
• 20 grams (1 medium) Spring onion
• 40 grams (½ cup) grated Gruyere cheese
• ½ lemon zest
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (+ a little bit extra to drizzle on top)
• ⅓ teaspoon dried oregano (+ a little bit extra to sprinkle on top)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative based on what you have in your pantry or your taste preferences. Here are some variation ideas:

• Add Some Protein: Toss in cooked quinoa or shredded chicken for an extra boost of protein.
• Change Up the Cheese: Swap out Gruyere for mozzarella or goat cheese if you prefer a different flavor profile.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a touch of heat!
• Go Vegan: Substitute the cheese with plant-based alternatives and use cashew cream instead of Greek yogurt.

How to Make Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 200°C / 390°F. This ensures that your zucchinis will cook evenly and develop that lovely golden-brown color.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

While the oven heats up, wash your zucchinis thoroughly. Cut them in half lengthwise, then scoop out some flesh with a spoon to create space for the delicious filling. This step is important because it allows all those flavors to meld beautifully in each bite!

Step 3: Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine crumbled feta cheese, strained Greek yogurt, chopped spring onion, grated Gruyere cheese, lemon zest, garlic powder, chopped parsley, olive oil, and dried oregano. Mix until well combined. The creamy texture will make every bite irresistible.

Step 4: Stuff the Zucchini

Carefully spoon the filling into each zucchini half. Be generous! Drizzle a little olive oil on top and sprinkle with extra oregano for added flavor.

Step 5: Bake & Enjoy!

Place your stuffed zucchinis on a baking tray and pop them in the oven. Bake for about 45 minutes until they’re tender and golden brown on top. Your kitchen will smell amazing! Serve warm and enjoy every bite of this tasty creation.

Now you’re ready to dive into this delicious Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini recipe! Enjoy sharing it with friends and family—or savor every last bite yourself!

Pro Tips for Making Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini

Making Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini can be a delightful experience with these helpful tips!

• Choose Fresh Zucchini: Fresh, firm zucchinis not only taste better but also hold their shape during baking, ensuring your dish looks as good as it tastes.
• Mix Your Cheeses: Combining feta with Gruyere adds depth and richness to the filling, balancing the tanginess of the feta with the creamy, nutty flavor of Gruyere.
• Don’t Skip the Zest: Adding lemon zest brightens up the flavors and gives a refreshing note that complements the creamy filling beautifully.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to tweak the garlic powder and oregano according to your preference. Taste as you go to ensure it suits your palate!
• Let Them Rest: Allowing your stuffed zucchini to sit for a few minutes after baking will help them firm up slightly, making them easier to slice and serve.

How to Serve Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini

This dish is not only delicious but can also be presented beautifully! Here are some ideas for serving your Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkling fresh parsley or dill on top adds color and enhances the flavor profile.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, a dash of crushed red pepper can elevate the dish with a spicy kick.
• Lemon Wedges: Serving alongside lemon wedges allows guests to add an extra squeeze of freshness just before eating.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad made with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a simple vinaigrette complements the stuffed zucchini perfectly while adding extra nutrients.
• Grilled Vegetables: Charred bell peppers, asparagus, and eggplant make for a vibrant side that mirrors the Mediterranean theme of this dish.
• Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with herbs and lemon makes a great accompaniment, soaking up any drippings from your zucchini.
• Greek Tzatziki Sauce: This yogurt-based sauce made with cucumber and garlic pairs wonderfully with stuffed zucchini, providing a cool contrast to the warm filling.

Enjoy bringing this delightful dish to your table! Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering, these Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchinis are sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance and enjoy the delicious flavors throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your stuffed zucchinis effectively.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed zucchinis to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy leftovers for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze them, it’s best to do so before baking.
• Wrap each stuffed zucchini tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• You can freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, first thaw them overnight in the refrigerator.
• Preheat your oven to 180°C / 350°F.
• Place the zucchinis on a baking sheet and cover with foil.
• Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

Have questions about Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini? You’re not alone! Here are some common queries:

Can I substitute other cheeses for feta cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! While feta adds a unique flavor, you can use goat cheese or ricotta as alternatives. Just keep in mind that the taste will change slightly based on your choice.

How should I serve Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini?

Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini makes a delightful appetizer or side dish. Serve it warm with a drizzle of olive oil and some fresh herbs sprinkled on top for an extra burst of flavor!

Can Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini be made vegan?

Yes! For a vegan version, replace feta with a plant-based cheese alternative and use coconut yogurt instead of Greek yogurt.

How long does it take to prepare Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini?

Preparation takes just about 15 minutes, and then it requires 45 minutes of baking time. It’s an easy dish that fits well into any busy schedule!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Feta Cheese Stuffed Zucchini! This light yet satisfying dish showcases fresh ingredients that come together beautifully. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or treating yourself to a delicious appetizer, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your experience – I love hearing from fellow food enthusiasts!