Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Ingredients

• 4 medium zucchini
• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ medium onion
• 2 clove garlic
• ½ cup canned diced tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (optional)

Steps

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Halve zucchinis lengthwise and scoop out the pulp, leaving a 1/4-inch shell. Chop the scooped-out zucchini pulp.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and chopped zucchini pulp, cooking for another 3 minutes.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
5. Stuff the zucchini shells generously with the beef mixture. Place stuffed zucchinis in a baking dish.
6. Bake for 20 minutes. Remove from oven, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese (and Parmesan if using), and return to oven for another 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly and zucchini is tender.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, before serving.