Vegan Stuffed Zucchini

Vegan Stuffed Zucchini is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender zucchini with a savory quinoa and vegetable filling. This nutritious meal is perfect for a light lunch or a satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

• Zucchini - 2 medium
• Quinoa - 1/2 cup (uncooked)
• Vegetable broth - 1 cup
• Red bell pepper - 1/2, diced
• Yellow onion - 1/4, diced
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Cherry tomatoes - 1/2 cup, halved
• Black beans - 1/2 cup, drained and rinsed
• Corn - 1/2 cup (frozen or canned)
• Cumin - 1 tsp
• Chili powder - 1/2 tsp
• Olive oil - 1 tbsp
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Fresh cilantro - 2 tbsp, chopped (for garnish)

Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the center using a spoon to create boats. Set aside the scooped flesh for later use.
3. In a saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil, add the quinoa, and reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.
4. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
5. Stir in the diced red bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, corn, and the reserved zucchini flesh into the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
6. Add the cooked quinoa, black beans, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Mix until well combined and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Stuff each zucchini boat with the quinoa mixture, pressing down to pack it in tightly.
8. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender.
9. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve warm.

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 12 g
• Carbs: 57 g
• Fiber: 11 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion.
• Packed with vitamins and minerals, offering antioxidant properties.

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