Mediterranean Lentil Stuffed Zucchini

Name: Mediterranean Lentil Stuffed Zucchini
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium zucchinis; 1 cup cooked lentils; 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love making Mediterranean Lentil Stuffed Zucchini on busy weeknights. This recipe is not only quick and easy but also packed with nutrients and flavor. The tender zucchini serves as the perfect vessel for seasoned lentils, making it a satisfying option for dinner. Cooking these zucchinis and filling them with a mixture of spices, tomatoes, and lentils brings this dish to life. It’s a fantastic way to incorporate vegetables while enjoying a hearty meal that the whole family will adore.

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2026-01-15T12:19:10.851Z

When I first created this Mediterranean Lentil Stuffed Zucchini dish, I was astounded by how much flavor you can pack into such a simple ingredient. Zucchini is often overlooked but when hollowed out and filled with well-seasoned lentils, it transforms into a mouthwatering meal. I found that roasting the zucchini before stuffing gives it a wonderful texture that holds up beautifully against the filling.

Another revelation was the use of spices! I discovered that adding a pinch of smoked paprika and cumin gives the lentils a smoky depth that perfectly complements the zucchini. Often, I suggest tweaking the spices to fit your palate, but keep this combination as your base for a truly delightful dish.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A healthy meal that's bursting with Mediterranean flavors
Packed with protein and fiber from the lentils
Great for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for several days

      

Choosing the Right Zucchini

When selecting zucchinis for this dish, look for medium-sized ones that are firm and glossy. Avoid zucchinis with blemishes or soft spots, as they may not hold their shape during baking. If you find larger zucchinis, you can also use them; just increase the baking time to ensure they're tender. Remember, the shell should be sturdy enough to keep the filling intact during cooking.

To create a beautiful presentation, aim for zucchinis that are similar in size. This will ensure even cooking and make for an appealing dish that’s easy to serve. And don’t toss the scooped-out zucchini flesh! You can add it to the filling for added texture and flavor, or reserve it for another recipe like a veggie stir-fry.

Flavor Enhancements and Variations

To elevate the flavor of your Mediterranean Lentil Stuffed Zucchini, consider adding a touch of feta cheese or olives to the filling. These ingredients introduce a salty and tangy contrast that enhances the overall profile of the dish. If you're a fan of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes can also add a delightful kick to the filling without overwhelming the other flavors.

This recipe is very versatile, so feel free to make it your own! Substituting lentils with quinoa or couscous can provide a different texture while still keeping it hearty. Additionally, experimenting with different herbs such as oregano or thyme will give your filling a fresh twist, allowing you to customize the dish based on your taste preferences.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Stuffed Zucchini Ingredients

4 medium zucchinis
1 cup cooked lentils
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Once you have gathered the ingredients, you're ready to begin assembling this delightful dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Mediterranean Lentil Stuffed Zucchini:

Prepare the Zucchini

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut each zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out the center using a spoon to create a cavity for the filling. Place the zucchini halves on a baking sheet.

Make the Filling

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent. Stir in the cooked lentils, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.

Stuff the Zucchini

Spoon the lentil mixture into each hollowed zucchini half, pressing down gently to pack the filling. If desired, top with a sprinkle of cheese.

Bake

Place the stuffed zucchinis in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the zucchinis are tender and the tops are slightly golden.

Serve

Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy your healthy and flavorful Mediterranean meal!

Enjoy your delicious stuffed zucchinis!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite spices or additional vegetables. Topping the dish with feta cheese or adding olives can enhance the Mediterranean flavor even more.

Storage and Meal Prep

These stuffed zucchinis are a great option for meal prep. Once assembled, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. This makes it convenient to grab a quick meal throughout the week. If you plan to prepare them in advance, consider underbaking them slightly before refrigerating, as this allows them to cook perfectly when reheated.

If you're looking to freeze the stuffed zucchinis, ensure they cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.

Creative Serving Suggestions

To serve this dish with a Mediterranean flair, pair your stuffed zucchinis with a light side salad featuring cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice. This fresh accompaniment balances the warmth and heartiness of the zucchinis while complementing their flavors beautifully.

Another idea is to accompany the dish with a dollop of tzatziki sauce on top or on the side for a refreshing contrast. This yogurt-based sauce adds a creamy element, further enhancing the Mediterranean experience. Additionally, consider serving over a bed of couscous or quinoa to complete the meal if you're feeling extra hungry!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers and eggplants also make great vessels for stuffing.

→ How long will leftovers keep?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

→ Can I make this vegan?

Yes, the recipe is vegan as it uses lentils and no animal products.

→ What can I serve with these stuffed zucchinis?

A simple side salad or quinoa would pair nicely with this dish.