Looking for a healthy, light, and delicious dish that’s bursting with flavor? Zucchini Gratin with Shrimp and Garlic is the perfect option! This recipe combines tender zucchini, succulent shrimp, and a creamy, garlic-infused stuffing, topped with golden melted parmesan. Whether you’re craving a low-carb meal, entertaining guests, or simply wanting something light yet satisfying, this dish offers all the goodness of a gratin with a twist. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and minimal effort, it’s both easy and delicious.
Ingredients
For the Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Stuffing:
- 300 g peeled shrimp
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 150 g thick crème fraîche
- 50 g grated parmesan
- 1 teaspoon herbes de Provence
For Decoration:
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 200°C (about 400°F).
- Prepare the zucchini: Cut each zucchini in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, carefully hollow out the center of the zucchini to create small boats, leaving a thin border around the edges. Keep the removed zucchini flesh for later use. Place the hollowed zucchini halves into a lightly oiled baking dish, ready for stuffing.
Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing
- Sauté the garlic and shrimp: In a frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant and lightly browned.
- Cook the shrimp: Add the peeled shrimp to the pan along with the diced zucchini flesh. Sprinkle with herbes de Provence, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp are fully cooked and turn pink. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Add the Cream
- Stir in the cream: Off the heat, stir in the crème fraîche to the shrimp mixture. Mix everything together until you have a creamy, smooth stuffing.
Step 4: Stuff the Zucchini
- Fill the zucchini: Generously fill the hollowed zucchini halves with the shrimp and cream mixture. Ensure the stuffing is packed in well to hold its shape during baking.
Step 5: Add the Parmesan
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle grated parmesan over the top of each stuffed zucchini boat. This will melt and form a golden, crispy crust as it bakes.
Step 6: Bake
- Bake the gratin: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese on top is golden brown and bubbling.
Step 7: Serve
- Garnish and serve: Once baked, remove the zucchini gratin from the oven. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve immediately, paired with rice pilaf, a green salad, or simply enjoy on its own.
Tips and Variations
- Add extra veggies: If you want to bulk up the dish, consider adding other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes to the stuffing mix. They will add more flavor and texture to the dish.
- Cheese variations: Feel free to substitute parmesan with other cheeses like gruyère, mozzarella, or feta for a different flavor profile.
- Make it dairy-free: For a dairy-free version, swap the crème fraîche with coconut cream or a plant-based cream and use a dairy-free cheese.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking, to prevent excess moisture in the stuffing.
How do I know when the zucchini is done?
The zucchini will be tender when pierced with a fork, and the cheese should be golden and bubbling. If you’re unsure, you can check by gently pressing down on the zucchini halves. If they feel soft, they are ready.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffed zucchini ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add the cheese right before baking.
How can I make the dish spicier?
For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes, jalapeño slices, or a dash of hot sauce to the shrimp mixture while cooking.
Conclusion
Zucchini Gratin with Shrimp and Garlic is a perfect blend of freshness, creaminess, and savory flavor. The combination of tender zucchini, succulent shrimp, and a cheesy, garlicky cream sauce makes for a delightful meal that’s both healthy and indulgent. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side dish, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household. It’s a great way to elevate your meals with minimal effort, and it’s sure to impress your guests or family alike!