Zucchini Pizza Boats

Make my zucchini pizza boats when those pizza cravings hit! This healthy, cheesy, and easy zucchini pizza recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer at parties. With just 30 minutes of prep and cook time, these delicious zucchini boats are not only flavorful but also a great way to enjoy a low-carb alternative to traditional pizza. You’ll love how versatile they are—customize the toppings to suit your taste!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Healthy Alternative: Enjoy all the flavors of pizza with fewer carbs by using zucchini as the base.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to mix and match your favorite toppings like veggies, cheese, or different meats.
• Kid-Friendly: These zucchini pizza boats make for a fun and interactive meal that kids will love.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather all your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having the right equipment can make your experience more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Spoon or melon baller
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for roasting your zucchini, ensuring they cook evenly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze after baking.
• Spoon or melon baller: Helps create perfect wells in the zucchini for filling with sauce and toppings.

Ingredients

Make my zucchini pizza boats when those pizza cravings hit! This healthy, cheesy, and easy zucchini pizza recipe is ready in just 30 minutes.

For the Zucchini Pizza Boats

• 4 medium Zucchini
• 1 tbsp Olive oil
• 1/4 tsp Sea salt
• 1/4 tsp Black pepper
• 16 tbsp Marinara sauce
• 1/3 cup Mini pepperoni slices
• 1 1/3 cup Mozzarella cheese

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Zucchini Pizza Boats

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (204 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

Slice the zucchini lengthwise. Use a spoon or melon baller to scoop out some of the centers of the zucchini to create wells.

Step 3: Seasoning the Zucchini

Place the zucchini onto the baking sheet, cut side up. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper.

Step 4: Roast the Zucchini

Roast the zucchini in the oven for about 15-20 minutes, until they are soft and tender.

Step 5: Remove Moisture

When the zucchini are done roasting, use paper towels to pat any moisture from the wells.

Step 6: Add Sauce and Toppings

Spread 2 tablespoons (29.5 milliliters) of marinara inside each zucchini boat. Then top with mozzarella cheese and mini pepperoni slices.

Step 7: Bake Again

Bake for an additional 5 minutes. Then broil for about 3-5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and browned.

How to Serve Zucchini Pizza Boats

Zucchini pizza boats are a fun and healthy alternative to traditional pizza. They can be served in various ways to suit your taste buds.

Casual Family Dinner

• Serve with a Side Salad – A fresh garden salad pairs perfectly with zucchini pizza boats, adding crunch and nutrition.
• Add Garlic Bread – For a comforting touch, serve with warm garlic bread to complement the cheesy goodness of the boats.

Game Day Snack

• Pair with Dipping Sauces – Offer marinara or ranch dressing as dips for an exciting snack during game day.
• Create a Snack Platter – Include various finger foods like veggies and chips alongside your zucchini pizza boats for a festive spread.

Meal Prep Option

• Pack for Lunches – These zucchini boats make great leftovers. Pack them in containers for easy lunches throughout the week.
• Freeze for Later – If you have extras, freeze individual portions for quick meals on busy days.

How to Perfect Zucchini Pizza Boats

Perfecting your zucchini pizza boats is simple with a few tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish.

• Choose the Right Zucchini – Select firm, medium-sized zucchinis for the best texture and flavor.
• Scoop Carefully – When hollowing out the zucchini, be gentle to avoid breaking the sides. This keeps the structure intact.
• Season Generously – Don’t skip on seasoning! A little extra salt and pepper enhances the flavor significantly.
• Experiment with Toppings – Feel free to swap out mini pepperoni for other toppings like mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives.
• Check Doneness – Ensure the zucchini is tender before adding toppings; undercooked zucchini can be too crunchy.
• Broil Smartly – Keep an eye on the broiler; it can quickly turn from perfectly browned to burnt.

Best Side Dishes for Zucchini Pizza Boats

Zucchini pizza boats can be complemented with a variety of side dishes that enhance their deliciousness. Here are some great ideas.

1. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli – With its crispy edges and savory flavor, this vegetable dish adds a healthy contrast.
2. Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad with crunchy croutons makes for a refreshing side dish that’s full of flavor.
3. Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy sweet potato fries provide a delightful sweetness that balances well with savory zucchini pizzas.
4. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and brightness that pairs nicely with the rich flavors of your meal.
5. Quinoa Salad – Light and nutritious, quinoa salad offers a protein-packed option that complements the dish well.
6. Fruit Skewers – Fresh fruit skewers add a sweet touch and are perfect for lightening up your meal!
7. Stuffed Bell Peppers – These colorful peppers stuffed with rice or quinoa provide another layer of flavor and nutrition alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Zucchini Pizza Boats can be a breeze, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are a few mistakes to avoid:

• Overcooking the Zucchini: If you roast the zucchini too long, it may become mushy. Keep an eye on them and aim for a tender texture without losing their shape.
• Not Scooping Enough: When hollowing out the zucchini, be careful not to scoop too little. A well-defined well allows room for marinara and toppings without overflowing.
• Skipping the Draining Step: After roasting, moisture can accumulate in the wells. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure your Zucchini Pizza Boats don’t turn soggy.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to season the zucchini before roasting can lead to bland flavors. Be generous with olive oil, salt, and pepper for enhanced taste.
• Using Too Much Topping: It can be tempting to load up on cheese and toppings. However, too much can make the boats hard to eat. Stick to moderate amounts for balance.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Zucchini Pizza Boats

• Freeze individually wrapped boats in plastic wrap.
• You can also use a freezer-safe container for longer storage.
• These will keep well for up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Zucchini Pizza Boats

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until warm, but this may make them slightly soggy.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat. Cover and heat for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my Zucchini Pizza Boats?

Yes! You can add different toppings like bell peppers, olives, or even cooked sausage according to your taste preferences.

How do I make vegan Zucchini Pizza Boats?

To create vegan versions of these boats, substitute mozzarella cheese with plant-based cheese alternatives and choose vegan pepperoni or skip it altogether.

What side dishes pair well with Zucchini Pizza Boats?

These boats go great with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that satisfies.

How do I know when my zucchini is done roasting?

Your zucchini should be tender yet firm enough to hold its shape after roasting. A fork should easily pierce it without falling apart.

Can I use other vegetables as boats?

Absolutely! Bell peppers or eggplants work well as alternatives if you’re looking for a variation on this recipe.

Final Thoughts

These Zucchini Pizza Boats offer a delightful way to satisfy pizza cravings while keeping things healthy and low-carb. Their versatility lets you customize toppings based on what you have available or your personal preferences. Give this recipe a try, and feel free to experiment with different ingredients!