Something New: Southwest Zucchini Boats

After meal planning for the next 15+ days and making our major grocery visit yesterday, I attempted a new dish this evening with some success. My first accomplishment, prior to anyone tasting the dish, was the fact that the entree I prepared looked exactly like the photo from the recipe magazine. This NEVER happens for me. Ever. So I was simply delighted by this and was ready to call it a success regardless of the taste.

I served the meal as shown to the left ... Southwest Zucchini Boats as the entree, served with a condiment of sour cream, a side of baked red potatoes, and a few grapes to Mr. McGoo and my youngest sis... Kelsey took the first bite and quickly gave her compliments. I took the second bite, my sis wasn't lying, and Mr. McGoo admitted that it was one of the best meals I've made. Hmmm...

So I gotta share this different treat.... hope you enjoy too.

Southwest Zucchini Boats

Prep/Total Time: 25 min.

Yield: 4 Servings

Ingredients:

• 4 medium zucchini
• 1 lb. ground beef - I used ground turkey instead
• 3/4 cup salsa
• 1/4 cup dry bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup minced fresh cilantro - didn't have it, so skipped it
• 1 tsp. chili powder
• 1/2 tsp. ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp. salt
• 1/8 tsp. pepper
• 1 cup (4 oz) shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
• Sour Cream, optional

Directions:

• Cut zucchini in half lengthwise; cut a thin slice from the bottom of each with a sharp knife to allow zucchini to sit flat. Scoop out pulp, leaving 1/4-in. shells. (Don't throw away the leftover zucchini pulp. Freeze and save it for zucchini bread later. Or add it to vegetable soups and stews.)
• Place shells in an ungreased 3-qt. microwave-safe dish. Cover and microwave on high for 3 minutes or until crisp-tender; drain and set aside.
• Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook beef (turkey) over medium heat until no longer pink; drain. Remove from the heat; stir in the salsa, bread crumbs, cilantro, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and 1/2 cup cheese. Spoon into zucchini shells.
• Microwave, uncovered, on high for 4 minutes. Sprinkle with remaining cheese. Microwave 3-4 minutes longer or until cheese is melted and zucchini are tender. Serve with sour cream if desired.