Are you ready to whip up a delicious and healthy dinner in just 15 minutes? I know I am! Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Low Carb Zucchini Pizza Boats. These little beauties are not only quick to make, but they also satisfy those pizza cravings without the carbs. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is a fantastic alternative to traditional pizza and fits right into my collection of easy pasta recipes and 30-minute meals. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for quick family dinners.
- Low in carbs but high in flavor, perfect for those watching their diet.
- Customizable with your favorite toppings, so everyone can enjoy their own version.
- Great for meal prep or leftovers, making it a smart choice for busy weeknights.
- Fun and interactive for the whole family to assemble together!
Ingredients
To make these delightful zucchini pizza boats, you’ll need the following fresh ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices (or your favorite toppings)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Making these Low Carb Zucchini Pizza Boats is a breeze! Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the center using a spoon to create a boat shape.
- Place the zucchini halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Sprinkle a little salt and pepper inside each zucchini boat.
- Spread a generous amount of marinara sauce into each boat.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and your choice of toppings, like pepperoni or veggies.
- Sprinkle Italian seasoning over the top for extra flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a minute. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy your delicious creation!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your zucchini pizza boats turn out perfectly:
- Choose firm zucchinis for the best texture.
- Don’t overfill the boats; too much sauce can make them soggy.
- Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or feta for a unique twist.
- If you’re short on time, you can microwave the zucchini for a few minutes before baking to soften them up.
- For a creamy touch, consider adding a dollop of ricotta cheese on top before baking!
How to Serve
These Low Carb Zucchini Pizza Boats are perfect as a main dish or a side. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Pair them with a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread for a comforting touch.
- For a fun family night, let everyone customize their own zucchini boat with their favorite toppings!
- These also make a great appetizer for gatherings or parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
If you want to prepare these ahead of time, you can assemble the zucchini boats and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop them in the oven as directed!
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. They also make a great addition to your meal prep routine, fitting perfectly into your weeknight dinner ideas.
So there you have it! A quick, easy, and delicious recipe that the whole family will love. I can’t wait for you to try these Low Carb Zucchini Pizza Boats. They’re sure to become a staple in your home, just like my favorite creamy garlic pasta and other easy pasta recipes. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Low Carb Zucchini Pizza Boats
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 3 pieces Zucchini (Fresh) (halved and pulp removed)
- 12 ounces Protein (Lean) (2 ounces per half zucchini)
- 2 teaspoons Minced Garlic
- 1 tablespoon Oregano
- ⅛ cup Almond Flour
- ½ cup Marinara Sauce (Low Sodium)
- Salt Salt (Your choice)
- Black Pepper Black Pepper (Your choice)
- 4 tablespoons Parmesan Cheese (Shredded)
- ¾ cup Mozzarella Cheese (Reduced Fat)
- Slices Pepperoni (*Optional)
Instructions
- Cut zucchini in half, remove pulp, and trim ends.
- Mash half of the pulp or all if not using meat.
- Mix all ingredients except cheeses and pepperoni.
- Stuff zucchini halves with the mixture on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Top with Parmesan, mozzarella, and optional pepperoni slices.
- Bake at 400°F (204°C) for 15-18 minutes until crispy.