Stuffed zucchini with mozzarella and thyme

Stuffed zucchini with mozzarella and thyme - a simple and delicious treat

Total preparation time: 40 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4

If you are looking for a quick and healthy recipe, stuffed zucchini with mozzarella and thyme is the perfect choice. This simple recipe will not only delight your taste buds but will also add a splash of color to your plate. Using fresh and aromatic ingredients, it will help you achieve a delicious result, ideal for a family dinner or a meal with friends.

Ingredients:
- 4 medium zucchinis (about 1 kg)
- 200 g mozzarella (preferably fresh)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 bunch of fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon of dried thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 50 g grated parmesan (optional, for added flavor)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the zucchinis: Start by washing the zucchinis well under cold water to remove any impurities. Cut each zucchini in half lengthwise, then use a spoon to gently scoop out the flesh, leaving a margin of about 1 cm. The scooped flesh can be saved for later use in other dishes.

2. Boiling the zucchinis: Place the zucchinis in boiling water and add a teaspoon of salt. Let them boil for 10 minutes. This step will make the zucchinis easier to fill and will improve their texture. After boiling, drain them and let them cool slightly.

3. Preparing the filling: In a bowl, drain the mozzarella and cut it into cubes. Add the scooped zucchini flesh, olive oil, finely chopped fresh thyme (or dried), salt, and pepper to taste. Mix all the ingredients well, ensuring a homogeneous filling.

4. Filling the zucchinis: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the zucchinis on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and fill each half with the mozzarella mixture. If desired, you can sprinkle grated parmesan on top for a golden and crispy crust.

5. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and let the zucchinis bake for 20 minutes, or until the mozzarella melts and forms a light crust. The aroma of thyme will fill the house, and the zucchinis will become a real attraction on the table.

6. Serving: Remove the tray from the oven and let the zucchinis cool for a few minutes before serving. They can be enjoyed both warm and cold, as an appetizer or side dish. You can pair them with a fresh green salad or a spicy tomato sauce for a contrast of flavors.

Suggestions and variations:
- Replace mozzarella with feta cheese for a more intense flavor.
- Add some black or red olives to the filling for extra flavor.
- You can also add some sun-dried tomatoes or roasted peppers to the filling for a Mediterranean touch.

This dish is not only delicious but also an excellent way to use zucchinis from the garden. Stuffed zucchini with mozzarella and thyme is a healthy, quick, and flavorful choice, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your meal!