Stuffed Zucchini with Lentils

Stuffed Zucchini with Lentils is a hearty and nutritious dish that combines tender zucchini with a savory lentil filling, making it a perfect kosher American dinner option. This delightful meal is not only satisfying but also packed with flavor and healthy ingredients.

Ingredients

• Zucchini - 2 medium-sized
• Cooked green or brown lentils - 1 cup
• Onion - 1 small, finely chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Tomato - 1 medium, diced
• Carrot - 1 small, grated
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Cumin - 1 teaspoon
• Paprika - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
• Fresh parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Vegetable broth - 1/2 cup
• Grated Parmesan cheese - 1/4 cup (optional)

Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds to create a hollow boat.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent.
4. Add the grated carrot, diced tomato, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in the cooked lentils and vegetable broth, mixing well to combine. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
6. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped parsley.
7. Place the zucchini halves in a baking dish and fill each with the lentil mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in.
8. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of each stuffed zucchini.
9. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the tops are slightly golden.
11. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 15 g
• Carbs: 45 g
• Fiber: 15 g
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Cholesterol: 5 mg
• Total Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Water: 0.25 L

Health Benefits

• High in fiber, promoting digestive health.
• Rich in plant-based protein, supporting muscle health.

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