Colombian-Style Zucchini Rellenos

Ingredients:

For the Zucchini:

  • 4 medium zucchinis
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Filling:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 pound ground beef or ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro or parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a bit of heat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or queso blanco (or any melting cheese)

For the Topping:

  • 1/4 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or queso blanco)
  • Optional: Extra chopped cilantro or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Zucchini:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the center flesh, leaving about a 1/4-inch border to create a “boat.” Reserve the scooped-out zucchini flesh for the filling.
    • Brush the zucchini boats with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  2. Make the Filling:
    • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
    • Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
    • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
    • Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
    • Stir in the diced tomatoes, reserved zucchini flesh, cilantro or parsley, cumin, paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture is well combined and heated through.
    • Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheese.
  3. Stuff the Zucchini:
    • Spoon the filling mixture evenly into the zucchini boats.
    • Sprinkle the tops with the remaining shredded cheese.
  4. Bake:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  5. Garnish and Serve:
    • Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
    • Garnish with additional chopped cilantro or parsley if desired.
    • Serve warm and enjoy your Colombian-style zucchini rellenos!

Nutritional Info (Per Serving, approx.):

  • Calories: ~250
  • Fat: 16g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Net Carbs: 6g