Stuffed Zucchini with Quinoa and Chickpeas and Lentils

Stuffed Zucchini with Quinoa, Chickpeas, and Lentils is a hearty and nutritious dish perfect for a late-night snack. This vibrant meal is packed with protein and fiber, making it both satisfying and guilt-free.

Stuffed Zucchini with Quinoa and Chickpeas and Lentils
45 minutes
Difficulty: Medium
American
320 kcal

Ingredients

  • Zucchini - 2 medium
  • Quinoa - 100 grams
  • Chickpeas (canned, drained) - 240 grams
  • Lentils (cooked) - 100 grams
  • Red bell pepper - 1 small, diced
  • Onion - 1 small, chopped
  • Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
  • Olive oil - 1 tablespoon
  • Cumin - 1 teaspoon
  • Paprika - 1 teaspoon
  • Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
  • Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
  • Fresh parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped
  • Vegetable broth - 250 ml
  • Lemon juice - 1 tablespoon

Steps

  1. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
  2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds to create boats. Set aside.
  3. In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Stir in the diced red bell pepper, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper, cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
  5. Add the quinoa and vegetable broth to the saucepan, bringing it to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until quinoa is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
  6. Once the quinoa is cooked, add the chickpeas, lentils, chopped parsley, and lemon juice. Mix well to combine.
  7. Place the zucchini boats in a baking dish and fill each with the quinoa mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in.
  8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the zucchini is tender.
  9. Remove from the oven, allow to cool slightly, and serve warm.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 12 g
  • Carbs: 54 g
  • Fiber: 12 g
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
  • Total Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

  • Rich in plant-based protein from quinoa, chickpeas, and lentils.
  • High in dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and satiety.

Tags

AmericanHealthyMidnight