Chickpea Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Do you like zucchini? I really do, because zucchini can be used in so many ways. Either baked or grilled or you can make zoodles (spiralized zucchini noodles) instead of spaghetti. I often also add zucchini to my green smoothies because they are packed with many nutrients. These vegan zucchini boats are stuffed with hearty chickpeas, which add healthy plant-based protein. I love this recipe because it is:
How To Make Vegan Stuffed Zucchini?
Check the following step-by-step instruction photos below:
Cut the zucchini in half (lengthwise), scoop out some flesh, leaving a border around the skin. Chop the scooped-out flesh with a knife and set aside. Prepare the filling in a skillet and stuff each zucchini half with the filling. Add vegan cheese sauce (or store-bought vegan cheese) and bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs and enjoy!
Health Benefits Of Zucchini
Did you know that zucchini have many health benefits? They are packed with fiber, vitamins, minerals and are rich in antioxidants. I found an amazing article with 9 great facts about zucchini! I am going to share some facts with you: 1.) Improves digestion Zucchini is high in water. It also contains significant amounts of fiber, electrolytes, and other nutrients that are necessary for a healthy digestive system… 2.) Slows down aging Zucchini is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory phytonutrients, which help rid the body of free radicals and excess inflammation… 3.) Lowers blood sugar levels By including zucchini in your diet, you increase the intake of fiber… Studies show that including at least 30 grams of fiber in your daily diet lowers your risk of getting diabetes significantly… 4.) Supports healthy circulation and a healthy heart Zucchini is low in fat and sodium, but high in fiber and potassium. These properties help to maintain healthy blood circulation… 5.) Improves eye health Zucchini is a good source of health-protecting antioxidants and phytonutrients, including vitamin C, beta-carotene, manganese, zeaxanthin, and lutein… 6.) Boosts energy Because zucchini is a rich source of B-vitamins, especially folate, riboflavin, and B6, it can help to boost energy production in the body. This reduces fatigue and improves moods… 7.) Weight loss Because zucchini is low in calories and high in water and fiber, it is a great food for those wishing to reduce their body weight… Check out this link to find out more incredible facts about zucchini.
Healthy Ingredients
As mentioned before, these zucchini boats are stuffed with a savory chickpea mixture, bell pepper, and vegan cheese. I also used the zucchini flesh because if you prepare it with different seasonings it actually turns out to be tasty and flavorful! If you don’t like chickpeas, you can, of course, use beans (kidney beans, white beans, pinto beans, black beans…), refried beans, or lentils instead. You can either cook the chickpeas from dry or use canned chickpeas.
This Vegan Stuffed Zucchini Recipe is:
Meat-free, dairy-free Relatively low-carb Gluten-free Hearty Satisfying Flavorful Comforting A great weeknight dinner or side dish Easy to make with simple ingredients
Should you recreate these vegan stuffed zucchini boats, please leave a comment and rating below and don’t forget to tag me in your Instagram or Facebook post with @elavegan and #elavegan because I love to see your remakes! 🙂
If you like stuffed dishes, definitely also check out the following vegan recipes:
Stuffed Eggplant With Lentils Cheesy Stuffed Potato Cakes Stuffed Potato Skins Vegan Stuffed Bell Peppers (Capsicum) Vegan Lasagna Roll Ups Buffalo Chickpea Taquitos
If you are using Pinterest, feel free to pin the following photo:
