Stuffed Zucchini Gratin: A Kid-Friendly Mexican Recipe

Looking for a healthy and delicious side dish or even a light vegetarian main course that will please the whole family, especially picky eaters? Then look no further than this vibrant Stuffed Zucchini Gratin, a fun twist on classic Mexican flavors. This recipe cleverly combines the nutritional goodness of zucchini with the satisfying richness of a cheesy gratin, all while being surprisingly easy to make. Forget bland veggie dishes; this one bursts with flavor from a blend of corn, black beans, spices, and a creamy, gooey cheese topping.

The vibrant colors and familiar tastes will even entice the most reluctant vegetable eaters. Ready to transform ordinary zucchini into an extraordinary meal? Let's dive into the simple, step-by-step instructions to create this mouthwatering Stuffed Zucchini Gratin.

Tools Needed

• Pot
• Spoon
• Strainer
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Frying pan
• Blender

Ingredients

• Long zucchini
• Ground meat
• Salt
• Pepper
• Garlic cloves: 2
• Small onion: ½
• Serrano pepper: 1
• Bay leaves: 1-2
• Mexican oregano
• Small potato: 1
• Chopped tomatoes: 2
• Grated cheese (Chihuahua, Manchego, or mozzarella)
• Ripe tomatoes: 6
• Onion slices: 2
• Bread slice (bolillo): 1
• Jalapeño pepper: 1
• Vegetable oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Zucchini and Meat Filling

• Boil zucchini in salted water for 10 minutes. Remove and let cool.
• Cut cooled zucchini in half, remove seeds and pulp carefully. Reserve pulp and liquid.
• Chop reserved zucchini pulp.
• Season ground meat with salt, pepper, minced garlic, onion, serrano pepper, bay leaves, oregano, potato, zucchini pulp, tomatoes, and salt.

• Cook the seasoned meat in hot oil until browned. Add onion, chili, potato, bay leaves, oregano, and continue cooking for 20 minutes.
• Add tomatoes and zucchini pulp. Season with salt and let simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 2. Create the Rich Tomato Sauce

• Fry onion and garlic in oil until tender. Remove and set aside. Toast bread until browned, then remove.
• Fry halved tomatoes in the remaining oil until softened. Remove.
• Blend fried tomatoes, onion, garlic, bread, reserved zucchini liquid and seeds until smooth.
• Heat oil, fry jalapeño strips. Add blended sauce, season with salt and oregano. Simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 3. Assemble and Bake the Gratin

• Fill zucchini halves with meat mixture and top with grated cheese.
• Add stuffed zucchini to the sauce and cook for 15 minutes.

Step 4. Serve

• Serve with rice.

Read more: Quick & Easy Pantry Mexican Rice with Rotel

Tips

• Cook the zucchini until tender but not mushy.
• Use a variety of cheeses for the topping.
• The bread in the sauce helps thicken it.
• Adding leftover meat filling to the sauce adds extra flavor.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 400-500
• Fat: 25-35g
• Carbs: 30-40g
• Protein: 20-25g

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Monterey Jack, cheddar, or even a Mexican cheese blend would work well. Experiment to find your favorite!

2. What can I substitute for the zucchini?

Yellow squash or even bell peppers could be used as a substitute, though cooking times may need adjusting.

This Stuffed Zucchini Gratin is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a healthy and flavorful alternative to traditional side dishes. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating a delicious and nutritious meal your family will love. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to experience the vibrant taste of this Mexican-inspired zucchini delight!