June 24, 2026 · 10 min

Stuffed Zucchini Boats with Couscous, Tomatoes and Melted Italian Cheeses

Dinner10 min349 cal / serving

These stuffed zucchini boats are a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. Tender zucchini halves are filled with a savory mixture of Israeli couscous, fresh tomatoes, garlic and aromatic Tuscan spices, then topped with a generous layer of melted Italian cheeses. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds the perfect finishing touch.

This recipe comes together quickly with simple ingredients, making it an easy and impressive meal. The combination of textures and flavors-from the tender zucchini to the chewy couscous and gooey cheese-is sure to please everyone at the table. Serve it as a main course or a hearty side dish.


Recipe details

Dinner10 min349 cal / serving2 servings

Nutrition per serving

Calories349 kcalProtein17.1 gFat10.5 gCarbs45.8 gSugar11.6 gFiber5.4 gSodium4264 mg

Dietary labels

Gluten-free: noLactose-free: noDairy-free: no

Allergen check

Gluten / wheat: containsMilk / dairy: containsEgg: not detectedFish: not detectedShellfish: not detectedPeanut: not detectedTree nuts: not detectedSoy: not detectedSesame: not detectedMustard: not detectedCelery: not detectedSulphites: not detectedLupin: not detectedMolluscs: not detected

Values are calculated per serving from ingredient amounts and the ingredient nutrition reference per 100g. Allergen and diet labels use available ingredient metadata and name matching; always check product labels for strict diets or allergies. Some ingredient amounts or nutrition values were incomplete, so this is marked as a partial estimate.


Ingredients

Zucchini2 unit ZucchiniView ingredient guide
Garlic1 clove GarlicView ingredient guide
Italian Cheese Blend0.5 cup Italian Cheese BlendView ingredient guide
Tomato2 unit TomatoView ingredient guide
Balsamic Glaze5 teaspoon Balsamic GlazeView ingredient guide
Israeli Couscous0.75 cup Israeli CouscousView ingredient guide
Saltteaspoon (tsp) SaltView ingredient guide
Black Pepperteaspoon (tsp) Black PepperView ingredient guide

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, scoop out the center flesh to create a boat shape, leaving about 1/4-inch thick walls. Chop the scooped-out zucchini flesh and set aside.
  3. Cook the Israeli couscous according to package directions, but replace the water with the veggie stock concentrate dissolved in the required amount of water. Drain if necessary and set aside.
  4. Dice the tomatoes and mince the garlic. In a medium bowl, combine the cooked couscous, chopped zucchini flesh, diced tomatoes, minced garlic and Tuscan heat spice. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix well.
  5. Divide the couscous mixture evenly among the zucchini boats, pressing gently to fill. Top each boat with the Italian cheese blend.
  6. Place the stuffed zucchini on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Remove from the oven and drizzle each boat with balsamic glaze. Serve warm.

Recipe Tips

For a vegetarian version, ensure the cheese blend is vegetarian-friendly.

You can substitute the Tuscan heat spice with a mix of dried oregano, basil and red pepper flakes.

If you prefer a crispier top, broil the zucchini boats for the last 2 minutes of baking.

FAQ

Can I use regular couscous instead of Israeli couscous?

Yes, you can use regular couscous. Adjust the cooking time according to package instructions.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the filling and stuff the zucchini boats a day in advance. Refrigerate until ready to bake, then add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

DandyRecipes community

Rate and discuss this recipe

Your rating and comments help other DandyRecipes readers decide what to cook next.

Your recipe vote

No DandyRecipes user votes yet.

Recipe comments

0 DandyRecipes comments

No DandyRecipes comments yet.

More recipe ideas

12 similar recipes you might like

These suggestions are based on shared ingredients, meal type, and recipe metadata.