Stuffed Zucchini with Lentils and Chickpeas

Stuffed Zucchini with Lentils and Chickpeas is a hearty and nutritious midnight dish that combines the earthiness of lentils and chickpeas with the freshness of zucchini. This delightful recipe is not only satisfying but also packed with protein and fiber, making it a perfect late-night snack.

Stuffed Zucchini with Lentils and Chickpeas
40 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
American
350 kcal

Ingredients

  • Zucchini - 2 medium-sized
  • Cooked lentils - 1 cup
  • Canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed - 1 cup
  • Onion, finely chopped - 1 small
  • Garlic, minced - 2 cloves
  • Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
  • Cumin powder - 1 teaspoon
  • Paprika - 1 teaspoon
  • Salt - 1 teaspoon
  • Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
  • Fresh parsley, chopped - 2 tablespoons
  • Lemon juice - 1 tablespoon
  • Cheese (optional, for topping) - 1/4 cup

Steps

  1. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
  2. Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, creating a boat shape. Reserve the scooped-out flesh.
  3. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add the reserved zucchini flesh, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet, cooking for another 5 minutes until softened.
  5. Stir in the cooked lentils, chickpeas, chopped parsley, and lemon juice, mixing well until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
  6. Stuff the zucchini halves with the lentil and chickpea mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in.
  7. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top of the stuffed zucchinis.
  8. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the zucchinis are tender.
  9. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 15 g
  • Carbs: 55 g
  • Fiber: 15 g
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
  • Total Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Water: 0.4 L

Health Benefits

  • High in protein and fiber, promoting satiety and digestive health.
  • Rich in vitamins and minerals, supporting overall health and well-being.

Tags

AmericanHealthyMidnight