Cream cheese zucchini boats are an amazing meal that can be enjoyed any time of year! This easy and delicious meal, made with fresh zucchini, creamy cream cheese, and savory ham, is sure to satisfy. Perfectly crispy on the outside with a creamy, cheesy filling inside, these boats make for a flavorful and filling dinner!
The zucchini boats, a modern twist on classic stuffed zucchini, are simple to make yet delicious and nutritious. The main ingredients used are: zucchini, cream cheese, and ham. With these ingredients alone, you can create a meal with plenty of taste and texture. Using eggs or milk can also be used to lighten the cream cheese filling inside the boats for a lighter flavor. You can also add in other ingredients of your choice to make the filling taste unique.
This recipe yields about 4-6 servings and can be completed in under 60 minutes. This zucchini boat meal makes for a great lunch or dinner option, best enjoyed with a side of tasty vegetables or a light salad.
Ingredients:
- 2 large zucchini
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 4 ounces ham
- 1 egg, optional
- 3 tablespoons milk, optional
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Additional herbs and seasonings of choice, optional
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
- Slice the zucchini crosswise into thick slices and hollow out with a spoon. Place the hollowed zucchini slices on a paper towel lined baking sheet to remove excess moisture.
- In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, ham, egg, and milk, until all ingredients are well combined. Season with salt and pepper, and any additional herbs and seasonings of choice.
- Fill each zucchini boat with the cream cheese mixture. Top each boat with extra ham slices if desired.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until filling is warm and golden brown. Allow zucchini boats to cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 360
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Protein: 40g
Cooking Time & Servings:
This recipe yields 4-6 servings and can be completed in under 60 minutes.
Equipment:
- Sharp Knife
- Cutting Board
- Baking Sheet
- Medium Bowl
- Spoon
Serving Suggestions:
These cream cheese zucchini boats are perfect for a simple and flavorful dinner. Enjoy with fresh, seasonal vegetables and a light salad for a complete meal. For extra flavor, top each boat with extra ham slices, herbs, and spices. For a more indulgent meal, serve these boats with crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or a variety of flavorful, melted cheeses.
Variation Ideas:
These zucchini boats are incredibly versatile and can be adapted according to preference. For a vegetarian meal, skip the ham and substitute it with grilled tomatoes, roasted eggplant, sautéed mushrooms, or any other desired vegetables. For a vegan variation, skip the egg and milk and substitute it with plant-based alternatives. To switch up the flavor, add in different seasonings or cheese blends.
Substitutions:
For a gluten free version, skip the ham and use other proteins, such as shredded chicken or tofu. To make a dairy free version, skip the cream cheese and substitute it with vegan cream cheese or vegan yogurt.
Storage:
Leftover zucchini boats can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. To reheat, place in a 350 degree F oven for 10-15 minutes.
Tips:
- Bake the zucchini boats on a paper towel lined sheet pan to ensure any excess moisture is absorbed to keep the zucchini boats crispy on the outside.
- Experiment with different ingredients to create a unique flavor. Try different herbs, spices, cheeses, and proteins for a flavor-packed meal.
- Make sure to fill the zucchini boats with enough cream cheese mixture so they are nice and plump.
- For a crunchier texture, top the zucchini boats with bread crumbs or crushed crackers before baking.
Notes:
- These boats make for a great lunch or dinner option, best enjoyed with a side of tasty vegetables or a light salad.
- For a lower carb version, skip the cream cheese and replace it with ricotta cheese or cottage cheese.
- These zucchini boats can be adapted according to dietary preferences and restrictions. Be sure to skip or adjust as needed!
- Make a big batch of these boats to store in the freezer for later. Allow zucchini boats to cool completely before freezing them in an airtight container.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- How do you store zucchini boats? Zucchini boats can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. To reheat, place in a 350 degree F oven for 10-15 minutes.
- Are zucchini boats healthy? Yes, when prepared correctly, zucchini boats can be a healthier option as it has a lower carb content and high protein content.
- Can you freeze zucchini boats? Yes, you can freeze these boats after they have cooled completely. Store them in an airtight container or bag in the freezer. When ready to eat, allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating in an oven.
- How long do zucchini boats last? Zucchini boats will last 1-2 days in the refrigerator. For optimal flavor, make sure to store them in an airtight container.
Category:
Main Dish, Lunch, Dinner, Italian Cuisine, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy Free
Personal Thought:
Cream cheese zucchini boats are an ooey-gooey, delicious, and totally customizable meal that is perfect for lunch or dinner. The cream cheese in the zucchini boats adds a luscious layer, while the addition of ham provides a salty, savory, and umami flavor. Perfectly crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these boats make for a healthy, tasty, and filling meal! Whether you serve them as a side dish, snack, or light lunch on a hot summer day, the possibilities are endless. Give this easy and savory recipe a try and you won’t be disappointed.
“There is no sincerer love than the love of food.”
– George Bernard Shaw
