Healthy Mediterranean Stuffed Zucchini

Name: Healthy Mediterranean Stuffed Zucchini
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium zucchinis; 1 cup cooked quinoa; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, chopped; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Light Healthy Meals Inspiration

I love creating dishes that are not only delicious but also packed with healthy ingredients, and this Healthy Mediterranean Stuffed Zucchini does just that! Each time I prepare this recipe, I'm amazed at how the fresh flavors of the Mediterranean ingredients blend beautifully with the tender zucchini. It's a perfect dish to serve at a dinner party or as a meal prep option for the week. The vibrant colors and satisfying textures make it a delight to eat and share with family and friends.

Created by

Rebecca Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-06T13:25:36.929Z

When I first tried Mediterranean stuffed zucchini, it opened my eyes to how versatile and flavorful this vegetable can be! I remember experimenting with different stuffing combinations, using ingredients like quinoa, feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes. It’s incredible how just a few simple ingredients can create such rich and comforting flavors that evoke summer vacations by the beach.

One of my top tips for this recipe is to use fresh herbs, like basil and oregano. They truly elevate the dish and add an aromatic touch that complements the zucchini perfectly. Plus, you can easily customize the filling to include your favorite Mediterranean ingredients, making it a fun dish to whip up!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Fresh, vibrant ingredients bursting with flavor
A perfect low-carb option packed with nutrients
Easily customizable for various dietary preferences

      

Zucchini Preparation Tips

When preparing your zucchinis, choose medium-sized ones for the best balance of flavor and texture. After slicing them in half, aim for even thickness; this ensures they cook uniformly. A small melon baller or spoon works wonders for hollowing out the centers without damaging the zucchini’s skin. Remember to save the scooped-out flesh! It can be incorporated into other recipes, like soups or smoothies, to avoid waste.

Seasoning the zucchini is crucial. A sprinkle of salt before stuffing helps draw out excess moisture, preventing sogginess during baking. Keep an eye on them as they bake; they should be fork-tender but not mushy, which could happen if you leave them in too long. I often check them at the 20-minute mark, as factors like zucchini size and oven variations can influence cooking time.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

The ingredients for this dish play vital roles in delivering that satisfying Mediterranean flavor profile. For instance, using fresh herbs like oregano and basil enhances the aroma and taste significantly. If fresh herbs aren't available, dried can work in a pinch, but reduce the quantity by about one-third due to their concentrated flavor. Also, consider mixing in diced bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and flavor variety.

If you prefer a different cheese, goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative can substitute the feta. Just ensure that the new cheese melts well to maintain the creamy texture. For those who want to ramp up the protein content, adding chickpeas or cooked lentils to the quinoa mixture can make this dish even heartier and satisfying.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to get started:

Stuffing Ingredients

4 medium zucchinis
1 cup cooked quinoa
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup Kalamata olives, chopped
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients combined will create a deliciously healthy stuffing.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect stuffed zucchini:

Prepare the Zucchini

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the centers using a spoon, creating boats to hold the filling. Season with salt and place them on a baking sheet.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, olives, red onion, garlic, oregano, basil, and any salt and pepper to taste. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Zucchini

Spoon the filling mixture into each zucchini half, pressing down gently to pack it in. Drizzle a little olive oil on top for added flavor.

Bake the Zucchini

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until the zucchinis are tender and the tops are golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve warm and enjoy this delightful dish!

This delightful dish is healthy, flavorful, and sure to impress!

Pro Tips

For an extra crunchy topping, sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese on top before baking.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Healthy Mediterranean Stuffed Zucchini is an excellent make-ahead option. You can prepare the filling a couple of days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to keep the zucchini hollowed and unstuffed until you're ready to bake, as this helps maintain their freshness and texture.

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place the zucchini halves on a baking sheet and pop them back into a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10–15 minutes. This will keep the zucchini from becoming too soft while ensuring your filling is heated through.

Serving Suggestions

These stuffed zucchinis can really shine as a main dish, but they also pair beautifully with a simple side salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for a wholesome meal. It’s an excellent way to incorporate more greens in your diet while enjoying the rich Mediterranean flavors.

For an elegant touch when serving at a dinner party, consider garnishing the stuffed zucchinis with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of extra feta cheese or fresh herbs right before serving. This not only elevates the presentation but also enhances the flavor profile, giving each bite a burst of freshness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of squash for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute zucchinis with other squash varieties like yellow squash or pattypan squash for a different flavor.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! As long as you use gluten-free quinoa, the entire dish can be made gluten-free.

→ How long will leftovers keep in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the stuffed zucchini?

Yes, you can freeze the stuffed zucchini before baking. Just thaw and bake when you're ready to enjoy them.