Zucchini Taco Boats (Low-Carb, Gluten-Free)

Zucchini Taco Boats (Low-Carb, Gluten-Free)

A delicious 40-minute weeknight dinner that’s both healthy and satisfying

Key Info

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Difficulty: Easy
• Cost: $10-15
• Dietary: Low-carb, Gluten-free, Keto-friendly

Equipment Needed

• Large baking sheet
• Sharp knife
• Skillet or large pan
• Spoon for scooping
• Cutting board
• Alternative: Use an air fryer for cooking zucchini if available

Ingredients

Base Ingredients:

• 4 medium zucchinis (about 8 inches each)
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or turkey/chicken)
• 1 cup (120g) Mexican cheese blend
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Seasonings:

• 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Toppings:

• Diced tomatoes
• Sour cream
• Fresh cilantro
• Sliced green onions

Method

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut zucchinis lengthwise and scoop out seeds to create “boats”. Leave about 1/4 inch thickness around edges.
3. Place zucchini boats on baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Pre-bake zucchini for 12-15 minutes until slightly tender.
5. Meanwhile, brown meat in skillet over medium heat (8-10 minutes). Add taco seasoning and 1/4 cup water, simmer 2 minutes.
6. Fill each zucchini boat with meat mixture. Top with shredded cheese.
7. Return to oven for 5-8 minutes until cheese melts and bubbles.

Crucial Tips

For Perfect Results:

• Don’t overcook zucchini in first bake – it should be just tender.
• Drain excess fat from meat before adding seasoning.
• Pat zucchini dry after scooping to prevent wateriness.

Storage:

• Refrigerate up to 3 days.
• Freeze before final cheese-melting step.
• Reheat at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.

Common Mistakes:

• Scooping zucchini too thin.
• Skipping pre-baking step.
• Not draining meat properly.

Variations:

1. Vegetarian: Use seasoned black beans and corn.
2. Spicy: Add diced jalapeños.
3. Italian-Style: Use Italian sausage and mozzarella.
4. Mediterranean: Ground lamb with feta cheese.

Note: Nutritional values vary based on ingredients used. Basic version approximately 300 calories per serving.

Stay tuned for more delicious, healthy recipes that make weeknight cooking a breeze!