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If you’re looking for a delightful dish that combines the comforting flavors of tacos with the healthful benefits of vegetables, look no further than Zesty Taco Zucchini Boats. This recipe offers a perfect balance of savory tastes and nutritious ingredients, making it a standout choice for both busy weeknights and casual gatherings. Imagine hollowed-out zucchini filled with a delicious mixture of seasoned meat, beans, corn, and cheese, all baked to perfection—this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping it light.

Zucchini Boats Loaded with Taco Filling

Transform your taco night with these delicious Zesty Taco Zucchini Boats! A healthy twist on a classic favorite, this recipe features hollowed zucchini filled with seasoned meat, beans, corn, and gooey cheese, all baked to perfection. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, these boats are customizable to suit any taste or dietary need. Enjoy the savory flavors while keeping it nutritious and low-carb. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will satisfy your cravings!
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Ingredients
  

4 medium zucchinis

1 lb ground beef or turkey

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)

1 packet taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)

1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a Mexican blend)

1/2 cup diced red onion

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional toppings: sliced jalapeños, avocado, sour cream, lime wedges

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring it reaches the right temperature while you prepare the zucchinis.

    Prepare the Zucchini: Carefully slice each zucchini in half lengthwise. Using a small spoon, scoop out the seeds and some flesh to create a hollow center, forming a boat. Keep the scooped-out zucchini flesh aside, as it will be used in the filling.

      Cook the Beef/Turkey: In a large skillet set over medium heat, add the ground beef or turkey. Cook it until it is nicely browned and completely cooked through, breaking it apart with a spatula as needed. Once cooked, drain off any excess fat to keep the filling lighter.

        Add Ingredients: To the skillet with the cooked meat, add the reserved zucchini flesh, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, red onion, and taco seasoning. Mix everything together thoroughly and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste for extra flavor.

          Stuff the Zucchini: Arrange the zucchini boats in a baking dish with the cut side facing up. Generously fill each boat with the flavorful taco filling, mounding the filling as necessary.

            Top with Cheese: Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheese over the stuffed zucchinis, ensuring every boat gets a delicious cheesy topping.

              Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.

                Garnish & Serve: Once baked, remove the zucchini boats from the oven. Sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately, along with your choice of optional toppings like sliced jalapeños, creamy avocado, tangy sour cream, and zesty lime wedges for an extra kick!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | 4 servings

                    Presentation Tips: For an appealing presentation, serve the stuffed zucchini boats on a vibrant platter, and arrange the optional toppings in small bowls alongside for a fun, customizable meal experience.