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:

  1. Halve the zucchini lengthwise and use a spoon to carve a channel down the center, leaving a ¼ inch (6mm) wall.
  2. Sprinkle the salted zucchini interiors and let them sit for 10 minutes, then pat dry with a paper towel.
  3. Brush the outsides of the zucchini with olive oil and place them in a baking dish.
  4. In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef and onions until the meat is mahogany-colored and onions are translucent.
  5. Stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning; cook for 60 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Pour in the marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  7. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the ricotta cheese until velvety.
  8. Spoon the beef mixture generously into each zucchini boat, pressing down slightly.
  9. Top each boat with a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  10. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden-brown.