Stuffed zucchini shells –Welcome to a delightful culinary adventure with Zucchini Stuffed Pasta Shells! A perfect blend of flavors and a nutritious twist on a classic dish, these stuffed pasta shells are sure to impress your family and guests. Packed with fresh ingredients, they bring a touch of comfort and elegance to your dinner table. Let’s dive into the details of this delicious recipe!
Zucchini Stuffed Pasta Shells
Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with this vibrant dish that combines zucchini, pasta, and a savory filling. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience!
Ingredients:
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 medium zucchinis, finely diced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Introduce the diced zucchini to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and the sautéed zucchini mixture. Mix until well combined.
- Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Stuff each cooked pasta shell generously with the cheese and zucchini mixture, then place them in the baking dish.
- Once all shells are filled, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top and sprinkle with the rest of the mozzarella cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve hot.
Enjoy your delicious Zucchini Stuffed Pasta Shells, a culinary gem that’s bound to become a family favorite!