Zucchini With Goat Cheese

This simple baked zucchini with goat cheese recipe transforms humble squash into an elegant side dish that pairs beautifully with any protein. The creamy goat cheese melts slightly into the tender zucchini while fresh mint adds a surprising brightness that elevates the entire dish.

I stumbled across this recipe years ago when my garden produced an overwhelming zucchini harvest. Now it has become my signature summer side dish that even vegetable skeptics request by name.

Ingredients

• Small young zucchini: Choose firm ones about 6 inches long for the best texture and flavor
• High quality goat cheese: The tangy creaminess balances the mild zucchini perfectly
• Fresh mint: Adds unexpected brightness that makes this dish memorable
• Extra virgin olive oil: Use your best bottle for drizzling as the flavor comes through
• Himalayan salt and pepper: Simple seasoning that allows the main ingredients to shine

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the oven:

Preheat your oven to 400°F which provides the perfect temperature for tender zucchini without making it mushy. Line a baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup effortless.

Prep the zucchini:

Trim the ends of each zucchini and cut a thin lengthwise slit along each one, being careful not to cut all the way through. Think of creating a pocket for the cheese. Season the inside of each slit generously with salt and pepper which will flavor the zucchini from within.

Add the filling:

Sprinkle half the chopped mint into the slits first, distributing it evenly among all zucchini. Then carefully tuck thin strips of goat cheese into each slit, filling them generously but not overstuffing. Top with the remaining mint which will infuse its flavor during baking. Finish with a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over each stuffed zucchini.

Bake to perfection:

Arrange the prepared zucchini on your parchment lined baking sheet with a bit of space between each one. Cover loosely with foil for the first 10 minutes of baking which gently steams the zucchini. Then remove the foil and continue baking for 20 more minutes until the zucchini is tender and the cheese begins to melt and brown slightly at the edges.

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The fresh mint completely transforms this dish from ordinary to extraordinary. My Italian grandmother always paired mint with zucchini from her garden, and this recipe honors that tradition while adding the luxurious touch of creamy goat cheese.

Make Ahead Options

This dish works beautifully for entertaining because you can prepare everything earlier in the day. Simply complete all steps up to baking, cover the prepared baking sheet with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When guests arrive, remove from the refrigerator about 20 minutes before baking to take the chill off, then bake as directed. The prep ahead approach actually allows the mint flavor to infuse more deeply into the zucchini.

Creative Variations

While the classic recipe is perfect as is, you can customize it based on what you have available. Crumbled feta works nicely in place of goat cheese for a more Mediterranean flavor profile. Fresh basil or thyme can substitute for mint, though each brings a completely different character to the dish. For a more substantial version, add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of balsamic glaze just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This elegant side dish pairs beautifully with simply prepared proteins. Try it alongside grilled lamb chops, roasted chicken, or even a robust fish like salmon. For a vegetarian meal, serve with a hearty grain salad or alongside a frittata for brunch. The bright flavors work particularly well with Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, making it perfect alongside kebabs or as part of a mezze spread.

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This zucchini dish makes a lasting impression and elevates any meal with minimal effort.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use different herbs instead of mint?

Yes, you can substitute the mint with basil, thyme, oregano, or chives depending on your preference. Each herb will provide a different flavor profile while maintaining the dish's fresh character.

→ How do I know when the zucchini is properly cooked?

The zucchini is properly cooked when it's tender but still holds its shape. You should be able to easily pierce it with a fork. Overcooking will make it mushy, while undercooking will leave it too firm.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the zucchini up to the point of baking several hours ahead and refrigerate. When ready to serve, allow a few extra minutes of baking time since they'll be starting cold. For best texture, it's recommended to bake them just before serving.

→ What can I serve with this baked zucchini dish?

This versatile side pairs beautifully with grilled meats, fish, or can be served as a light vegetarian main course with a side salad. For a complete keto meal, serve with grilled chicken or steak.

→ Can I use larger zucchini for this dish?

While you can use larger zucchini, small young ones are recommended as they have fewer seeds, firmer flesh, and sweeter flavor. If using larger zucchini, you may need to scoop out some seeds before stuffing and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Is there a dairy-free alternative to goat cheese?

For a dairy-free version, you could use a plant-based soft cheese alternative or a mixture of soaked cashews blended with nutritional yeast and lemon juice for a similar tangy creaminess. Note that this will change the flavor profile and macronutrient content.