Use it Up! Fun Ways to Use Your Produce Box

Authors : Chiara Bertasso and Jessica Lantzke - Nutrition and Dietetic students University Centre for Rural Health

**Cheesy Zucchini Boats**

Not sure what to make with what you’ve got? If you’re staring at a fridge full of the usual veggie box staples and feeling uninspired, you’re in the right place. These recipes are built around commonly received fruit & vegetables, with easy but creative ideas to turn them into filling meals, snacks, and extras you can use throughout the week.

These cheesy zucchini boats are an easy way to turn zucchini into a flavourful side dish using simple pantry ingredients. With a tomato base, melted cheese, and herbs, they’re endlessly adaptable and work well alongside any main meal.

Serves 4 as a side, or 2 as a light main

Ingredients

2 medium zucchini
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ cup tomato-based pasta sauce or crushed tomatoes
½–¾ cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, tasty, or feta all work)
½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Dried herbs or fresh basil, to taste
Salt and black pepper

Method

Preheat the oven to 220°C. Line a baking tray with baking paper or foil.
Slice the zucchini in half lengthways. Use a spoon to gently scoop out a shallow channel from the centre of each half to create “boats”.
Place the zucchini on the tray, drizzle with olive oil, and season lightly with salt and pepper.
Spoon a small amount of tomato sauce into each zucchini boat, spreading it evenly.
Sprinkle over the cheese, followed by garlic powder and herbs if using.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
Remove from the oven and top with fresh basil or extra herbs if desired. Serve warm.

Serving Suggestions

Serve as a side with a protein like grilled chicken or fish and pair with roasted potatoes, rice, or a simple salad for a balanced meal.
Add leftover protein or beans on top to make it more filling

Tips