Zapallitos Rellenos (chilean-style Stuffed Zucchini)

Zapallitos Rellenos, or Chilean-style Stuffed Zucchini, is a delicious and nutritious dish that is popular in Chilean cuisine. This recipe features zucchinis stuffed with a flavorful mixture of ground beef, onions, garlic, and spices, then baked to perfection. It's a great way to enjoy the abundance of zucchinis during the summer months!

Zapallitos Rellenos (chilean-style Stuffed Zucchini)

Ingredients

  • 4 medium zucchinis
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1/2 cup grated cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds to create a hollow center. Place the zucchini halves in a baking dish.
  3. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, and cook until softened.
  4. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  5. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the cooked rice and grated cheese.
  6. Spoon the beef mixture into the hollowed-out zucchini halves, filling them evenly.
  7. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the zucchinis are tender and the filling is golden brown.
  8. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
40 minutes
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Oven

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
300 per serving
Carbohydrates
15g
Protein
20g
Fat
18g

Supplies

Baking dish Foil

Tools

Skillet Spoon Knife

Serving suggestions

Serve the Zapallitos Rellenos with a side salad and a glass of Chilean red wine for a complete meal.

Tips & tricks

For a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with cooked quinoa and mixed vegetables.

Cost

$15