Ingredients:
- 3 medium zucchini, about 7 inches long (approx. 1.5 lbs / 680g)
- ½ tsp (3g) salt
- 1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef (90% lean)
- ½ cup (60g) finely diced yellow onion
- 3 cloves (15g) minced garlic
- 1 cup (240ml) marinara sauce
- 1 tsp (2g) dried Italian seasoning
- ½ cup (125g) ricotta cheese
- 1 cup (115g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Halve the zucchini lengthwise and use a spoon to carve a channel down the center, leaving a ¼ inch (6mm) wall.
- Sprinkle the salted zucchini interiors and let them sit for 10 minutes, then pat dry with a paper towel.
- Brush the outsides of the zucchini with olive oil and place them in a baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef and onions until the meat is mahogany-colored and onions are translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning; cook for 60 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the ricotta cheese until velvety.
- Spoon the beef mixture generously into each zucchini boat, pressing down slightly.
- Top each boat with a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden-brown.