Description
Grilled zucchini boats filled with creamy yogurt cheese mixture and bold Mexican spices, perfect for a healthy low-carb dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 1½ teaspoons onion powder
- 1½ teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ancho chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 4 large zucchinis
- Olive oil for drizzling
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 cup crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Mix all spice ingredients (smoked paprika, brown sugar, onion powder, oregano, garlic powder, ancho chili powder, cumin, black pepper, and salt) in a small bowl. Set aside for coating.
- Heat your grill to medium temperature. This ensures even cooking without burning the spice coating.
- Cut each zucchini in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out seeds, creating boat shapes. Drizzle with olive oil and generously sprinkle with spice mixture.
- Place zucchini cut-side down on grill. Cook for 10 minutes without turning until well-marked and slightly tender.
- Turn zucchini over and grill 2-3 more minutes until lightly marked on the skin side. Remove to serving platter.
- Mix yogurt and cheese in a small bowl. Divide mixture evenly between boats. Garnish with cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
Notes
- Choose zucchini that are 6-8 inches long and firm to the touch for the best boat structure and flavor
- Don’t skip the oil drizzle as it helps the spices adhere and prevents sticking to the grill grates
- Resist the urge to move the zucchini during the first 10 minutes to achieve those beautiful grill marks
- Make extra spice blend and store it in an airtight container for future grilling adventures
- Let the boats cool for 2-3 minutes before adding the yogurt mixture to prevent melting
- Can be made in oven at 425°F for 15-20 minutes cut-side down, then flip for 5 more minutes
- Store leftovers in refrigerator for up to 3 days
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 zucchini boat halves
Keywords: grilled zucchini boats, healthy Mexican recipes, low carb zucchini, stuffed vegetables, yogurt sauce recipes, Mexican spice blend, summer grilling recipes, keto friendly meals