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Air Fryer Veggie Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Are you as obsessed with your Air Fryer as I am? I can’t tell you how many times per week I use mine…Let’s just say, it’s a lot. In fact, I use it so much, it’s pretty much my “cooking assistant” in the kitchen. And my latest obsession? This Air Fryer Stuffed Zucchini Boats recipe.

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Not only is it healthy and easy to make, but the kids love the taste and flavor, too. Anytime I can get more veggies in their tummy, it’s a total win! 

Air Fryer Veggie Stuffed Zucchini Boats: A Veggie-Packed Delight

Imagine tender zucchini halves filled with a vibrant medley of vegetables, seasoned to perfection, and topped with melty cheese. The air fryer works its magic, ensuring a crispy finish in a snap. Let’s set sail on this tasty journey!

Why This Recipe Works

The brilliance of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. The zucchini acts as a low-carb, nutritious vessel that beautifully complements the mix of tomato, jalapeño, and red bell pepper. Spices like garlic and chili powder elevate the veggies, while the Mexican cheese adds a touch of indulgence. The air fryer ensures a quick and crispy finish, making it an easy and healthy weeknight meal.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to swap out the Mexican cheese for cheddar, mozzarella, or even a vegan cheese alternative.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

You can bake these zucchini boats in a regular oven at 400°F for about 20 minutes or until they are tender and the cheese is bubbly.

Can I make it spicier?

Certainly! You can double the amount of jalapeño or add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for more heat.

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Even though this zucchini recipe is a great appetizer or way to start the meal, it can totally be a meal on its own, too. Since it’s packed full of cheese and other tasty ingredients, it’s hearty and delicious and cooks up in no time at all. 

Is this Air Fryer Stuffed Zucchini Boats recipe spicy?

That all depends on how you want to make it. Since this recipe does call for fresh jalapeno, there’s a good chance that it’s going to have a little bit of heat. If you want to make it not spicy, then just eliminate the added jalapenos and it will mellow out the flavor quite a bit. 

Tips and Tricks

  1. Zucchini Prep: Make sure to scoop out the zucchini flesh carefully to create a sturdy “boat.”
  2. Spice Mix: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. You can add cumin for a more Southwestern flair or Italian seasoning for a Mediterranean twist.
  3. Pre-Cook Veggies: For an even more flavorful filling, sauté the tomatoes, jalapeño, and red bell pepper before stuffing.

Variations

  • Meat Lover’s Version: Add some cooked ground beef or turkey for extra protein.
  • Vegan Style: Substitute the cheese for a dairy-free alternative and use a plant-based oil instead of olive oil.
  • Tropical Twist: Add some finely chopped pineapple for a sweet and tangy counterpoint.

Where to Serve These Air Fryer Stuffed Zucchini Boats

These Zucchini Boats are perfect for almost any occasion—weeknight dinners, potlucks, barbecues, or even as appetizers for a party. They’re versatile, portable, and sure to please a crowd.

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The chili powder is also going to be spicy so keep that in mind as well. Season to taste!

What else can you add to this stuffed zucchini recipe?

Add in all the veggies that you can! I personally like to stuff it full of as much cheese as it will hold, but I also love adding in onions, too. Anything that is fresh and in season from the garden or on sale at the store is a winning choice for me. 

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back into the air fryer for a few minutes or microwave them until heated through.

Common Problems and How to Avoid Them

  • Soggy Zucchini: To avoid this, don’t overstuff your zucchini boats. Also, air frying helps in extracting moisture, thus keeping the zucchini crisp.
  • Uneven Cooking: Make sure to cut your zucchini halves as evenly as possible for uniform cooking.
  • Cheese Burning: To prevent this, add the cheese during the last few minutes of air frying.

Tips for Making this Recipe with Kids

  1. Stuffing Fun: Kids will love the hands-on aspect of stuffing the zucchini boats.
  2. Cheese Sprinkling: Let your little ones have fun sprinkling the cheese on top.
  3. Safe Dicing: Older kids can help with dicing the softer vegetables like tomatoes, under supervision.

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Can you freeze these once cooked?

I would say no. If you freeze them once they’re cooked, they’re not going to have a good texture once unthawed. They’ll get mushy and it just won’t be a good plan.

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Since they don’t take long to make, start with a small batch that you’ll eat and increase as you need more. It’s better to run out and make more than waste some by making too much! 

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Topping Options For Air Fryer Stuffed Zucchini Boats

  • Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro or parsley will add a burst of freshness.
  • Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream can provide a creamy, tangy contrast.
  • Avocado Slices: For extra richness and a boost of healthy fats.

There you have it! These Air Fryer Veggie Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a winning combo of health and taste, proving once again that eating well doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Happy air frying!

If you’re ready for a totally tasty and simple recipe, you’re going to love these Air Fryer Stuffed Zucchinis. So much flavor and taste and even better if you can use the produce right from your very own garden! 

What are some more amazing air fryer recipes to try?

If you are looking for some more fun Air Fryer Recipes be sure to check out The Best Air Fryer Recipes For The Whole Family!

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Yield: 2-6 boats

Air Fryer Veggie Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

These vegetarian air fryer zucchini boats are full of your favorite veggies and seasoned to perfection. Great as a healthy appetizer or side to any meal!

Ingredients

  • 2 medium zucchini
  • 1 roma tomato, chopped
  • 1 jalapeno, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • salt & pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup shredded Mexican style cheese
  • olive oil

Instructions

  1. Wash zucchini and slice lengthwise down the center.
  2. Using a spoon, scoop out the center of the zucchini removing all seeds.
  3. In a medium bowl combine the tomatoes, red pepper, jalapeno, seasonings, and cheese.
  4. Mix until well incorporated.
  5. Then spoon mixture into the center of each zucchini.
  6. Place in an Air Fryer basket/tray and spray or brush with olive oil.
  7. Cook at 390 for about 12 minutes.
  8. Serve hot with toppings of choice: salsa, sour cream, avocado, etc.

Nutrition Information

Yield

6

Serving Size

1

Amount Per Serving Calories 123Total Fat 9gSaturated Fat 4gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 4gCholesterol 20mgSodium 192mgCarbohydrates 5gFiber 1gSugar 3gProtein 6g

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