Easy Zucchini Pizza Boats Recipe

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If you’re looking for a low-carb, healthy alternative to traditional pizza, Zucchini Pizza Boats are a perfect choice! These delicious, easy-to-make zucchini boats are packed with classic pizza flavors—gooey cheese, savory marinara sauce, and your favorite pizza toppings—but without the extra carbs. They’re great for a quick dinner, meal prep, or a fun appetizer.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Wash and dry the zucchinis, then cut them in half lengthwise.
3. Using a small spoon or melon baller, scoop out some of the flesh from the center of each zucchini to create a boat shape. (Leave about ¼ inch of flesh on the bottom and sides.)
4. Brush each zucchini boat with olive oil, then sprinkle with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.

Step 2: Pre-Bake the Zucchini

1. Place the zucchini halves cut-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Bake for 8-10 minutes until slightly softened but still firm enough to hold toppings.

Step 3: Add the Pizza Toppings

1. Remove the zucchini from the oven and spoon 1-2 tbsp of pizza sauce into each boat.
2. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
3. Add your favorite toppings—pepperoni, sausage, veggies, olives, or extra cheese.
4. Sprinkle a little oregano and red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden & Bubbly

1. Place the zucchini boats back in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
2. Remove from the oven and let them rest for a couple of minutes.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

1. Sprinkle with chopped fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese.
2. Serve hot and enjoy your healthy, low-carb pizza alternative!

Tips & Tricks

Perfect Zucchini Boats

• Don’t over-scoop: Leave a sturdy base so the boats hold their shape.
• Pre-bake the zucchini: This keeps them from being too watery.
• Use firm zucchini: They should be medium-sized—too large and they may turn mushy, too small and they won’t hold enough toppings.

Cheese Tips

• Use low-moisture mozzarella for the best melt.
• For extra flavor, mix in some cheddar or provolone.

Sauce Options

• Classic Pizza Sauce: Tomato-based marinara works well.
• Pesto Sauce: A delicious, fresh twist.
• Alfredo Sauce: For a creamy, white pizza version.

Variations & Substitutions

Keto-Friendly Version

• Use a sugar-free pizza sauce to keep the dish completely low-carb.
• Skip high-carb toppings like onions or pineapple.

Vegetarian Version

• Load up on veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, olives, and spinach.
• Swap Parmesan cheese for nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

Protein-Packed Version

• Add shredded rotisserie chicken or ground turkey for extra protein.
• Use crumbled sausage or bacon for a heartier meal.

Spicy Version

• Add extra red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for heat.
• Drizzle with a little hot sauce before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Zucchini Pizza Boats are great on their own, but you can pair them with:

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• Garlic Bread – To scoop up extra pizza sauce.
• Side Salad – A fresh Caesar or Greek salad complements the dish.
• Pasta – Serve with a small portion of spaghetti for a more filling meal.

Final Thoughts

Zucchini Pizza Boats are an easy, customizable, and delicious low-carb alternative to traditional pizza. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal, a healthy appetizer, or a keto-friendly dish, these pizza boats are the perfect solution!

Prep Time
10 minutes

Cook Time
15 minutes

Total Time
25 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 large zucchinis (halved lengthwise)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ cup pizza sauce (or marinara)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup mini pepperoni (or chopped regular pepperoni)
• 2 tbsp fresh basil or parsley (chopped, for garnish)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven & Prep Zucchini:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out some of the flesh to create a slight “boat” shape.
   Brush each zucchini half with olive oil and season with garlic powder and oregano.
2. Assemble the Pizza Boats:
   Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over each zucchini half.
   Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
   Add mini pepperoni (or any other toppings of your choice).
3. Bake:
   Place the zucchini boats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
   Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. Finish & Serve:
   Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley.
   Add red pepper flakes if you like extra heat.
   Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Other Topping Ideas: Cooked sausage, mushrooms, olives, bell peppers, or onions.

Make It Cheesy: Add a little ricotta or cream cheese before topping with mozzarella.

Keto-Friendly? Yes! This is a great low-carb pizza alternative.

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