Step 1: Preheat the Oven

To begin, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. This ensures your zucchini boats come out perfectly tender without any mess.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchinis

Wash the zucchinis thoroughly. Cut them in half lengthwise, creating long, boat-shaped halves. Using a spoon, gently scoop out the flesh, leaving about 1/4 inch along the edges. You should have a hollowed-out cavity that can be filled with the Mediterranean mixture. Set aside the scooped-out zucchini flesh—this can be chopped and added to the filling if desired.

Step 3: Cook the Filling

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for 2-3 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.

Next, add the chopped zucchini flesh (if using) and cook for another 3-4 minutes. The zucchini will soften and release some of its juices. Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, quinoa (if using), oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to cook for 5-7 minutes, until the tomatoes begin to break down slightly and the flavors meld together.

Step 4: Assemble the Zucchini Boats

Place the zucchini halves on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon the filling into each zucchini half, pressing gently to pack the mixture inside. Make sure to fill the boats generously, ensuring that each bite will be packed with flavor.

Step 5: Bake the Zucchini Boats

Once the zucchini boats are filled, place them in the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the filling is slightly golden on top. You’ll know they’re ready when the zucchini has softened and the edges start to caramelize.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

After removing the zucchini boats from the oven, top each one with crumbled feta cheese. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side. The lemon will add a zesty, refreshing touch that balances the richness of the filling.

Tips for the Perfect Mediterranean Zucchini Boats

Here are some tips to elevate your Mediterranean Zucchini Boats:

1. For added texture: Try mixing in cooked quinoa or couscous into the filling. This will add heartiness while keeping the dish light and nutritious.

2. Add meat: For a protein boost, ground lamb or chicken works wonderfully in this recipe. Simply brown the meat before adding it to the filling mixture.

3. Dairy-free option: Skip the feta cheese and replace it with plant-based cheese for a vegan-friendly alternative.

4. Experiment with vegetables: You can swap out the zucchini for other Mediterranean vegetables such as eggplant or bell peppers.

5. Serve with tzatziki sauce: This refreshing cucumber-yogurt dip pairs perfectly with the rich and savory zucchini boats.