Tuscan-Style Stuffed Zucchini with Yellow Pepper Sauce

Introduction

The essence of Tuscan cooking lies in making the simple spectacular. While many families have a cherished recipe for zucchine ripiene (stuffed zucchini), our Mama Florence version elevates this staple with unexpected refinement. A vibrant and wholesome recipe featuring zucchini boats filled with savory meat and topped with a creamy yellow pepper sauce—delicious served hot or cold.

Ingredients

4 servings

Traditional Beef Filling for Zucchini

Zucchini 6
Ground Beef 200 grams (Lean)
Sausages 2
Egg 1
Parmesan cheese (Grated) as needed
Basil (Leaves) as needed

Yellow Bell Pepper Cream Sauce for Stuffed Zucchini

Yellow Onion 0.5
Potatoes 1
Extra-virgin olive oil as needed
Salt as needed
Yellow Bell Pepper 1

Preparation

Prepare and Fill the Zucchini Boats

Start by preheating your oven to 215°C (420°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Gently add the zucchini and cook until they are just tender yet still hold their shape, about 5-7 minutes. Drain and immediately rinse under cold water to halt the cooking process and preserve their vibrant color.

Once cool, slice each zucchini in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, carefully scoop out the seeds and flesh from the center, forming a cavity to hold the filling—these will become your zucchini boats.

In a mixing bowl, remove the casings from the Italian sausages and mash the meat. Combine with the ground beef, a beaten egg, freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano, and torn basil leaves. Mix until well blended and season to taste with salt and pepper.

Spoon the savory meat mixture into each zucchini boat, pressing lightly to fill. Arrange them on the prepared baking tray and bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the filling is cooked through and golden brown.

Create the Velvety Yellow Pepper Cream

In a medium sauté pan, heat a generous drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and cook until they are soft and translucent, releasing their sweetness.

Add diced potato for natural creaminess and allow it to sauté for a few minutes. Next, halve and deseed the yellow bell pepper, removing any inner membranes, and slice thinly. Add the pepper to the pan along with the potatoes and onions.

Pour in a splash of water and season lightly with salt. Cover the pan and let the vegetables simmer over low heat for at least 30 minutes, until the potatoes and peppers are tender and the flavors meld together beautifully.

When ready, transfer the cooked vegetables to a blender and blend until the sauce is completely smooth and creamy, creating a luxurious base for your stuffed zucchini.

Assemble and Serve with Style

Spoon a generous layer of the warm yellow pepper cream onto each plate, creating a vibrant canvas. Carefully place the stuffed zucchini boats atop the sauce, allowing the flavors to mingle.

Serve immediately for a comforting hot dish, or let cool for a refreshing summer entrée. This dish is perfect as a light main course or as a show-stopping addition to a festive table. Enjoy!

Conclusion

This dish is a true testament to the beauty of Tuscan ingredients—humble zucchini and simple peppers transformed into an elegant, satisfying main course or contorno. Don't be surprised if this refined take on stuffed zucchini quickly becomes a new favorite in your kitchen!