If you're looking for a mouthwatering and healthy summer dish that's bursting with flavor, you're in for a treat. These BLT Zucchini Boats are not only delicious but also a creative way to enjoy your garden zucchinis. Plus, they feature a special twist with the addition of our company's delectable pesto, elevating the taste to a whole new level. Let's dive into this simple yet impressive recipe that's perfect for any BBQ gathering or weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1/2 cup shredded Italian cheese blend
- 2 plum tomatoes (seeded & diced)
- 3 green onions with tops thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons panko bread crumbs
- 2 slices of bacon (cooked, drained, and crumbled)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1/2 to 3/4 cup of our Specialty Pesto
- Salt & Pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Prepare the Grill:
- Fire up your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring it's clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking.
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Hollow Out the Zucchinis:
- Begin by cutting the zucchinis in half lengthwise.
- To create a flat base for your boats, peel a thin slice from the rounded bottoms of each zucchini half.
- Carefully scoop out and discard the centers of the zucchinis, leaving about a 1/2-inch thick "boat." Set these aside for filling later.
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Prepare the BLT Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine our specialty pesto with the diced tomatoes, crumbled bacon, thinly sliced green onions, and panko bread crumbs.
- Season the filling with salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind that the bacon may already add some saltiness.
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Grill the Zucchini:
- Brush the zucchini boats with a teaspoon of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the zucchinis cut side down on the grill grates, ensuring they're evenly spaced.
- Grill covered for approximately 5 minutes, or until the zucchinis start to become tender and have grill marks.
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Stuff the Zucchini Boats:
- Carefully turn the zucchini boats over using tongs.
- Spoon the prepared BLT filling generously into each zucchini boat, ensuring they're filled to the brim.
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Add Cheese and Finish Grilling:
- Sprinkle the shredded Italian cheese blend over the filled zucchini boats.
- Continue grilling, covered, for another 5 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender, and the cheese has melted and turned golden brown.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the BLT Zucchini Boats from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter.
- Garnish with extra green onions or fresh basil if desired.
- Serve these delightful creations immediately, and watch as your guests savor every bite.
These BLT Zucchini Boats featuring our specialty pesto are a delightful summer dish that combines the smoky flavors of the grill with the fresh taste of garden zucchinis. The pesto, combined with bacon and cheese, creates a harmonious blend of savory and creamy that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. Whether you're hosting a barbecue or looking for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. So fire up the grill, grab your zucchinis, and let's get cooking!