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#### Instructions:
1. **Preheat the Oven**:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for baking the zucchini while ensuring the egg cooks perfectly inside the zucchini basket.
2. **Prepare the Zucchini**:
Wash and trim the ends of the zucchinis. Cut them in half lengthwise, then use a spoon to scoop out the center, leaving a hollowed-out “basket.” Be careful not to scoop out too much, as you want the zucchini to have enough structure to hold the egg. The hollowed-out zucchini should resemble a little boat or cup.
3. **Grease the Baking Dish**:
Lightly grease a baking dish or individual ramekins with olive oil or cooking spray. This will prevent the zucchini from sticking to the dish as it bakes.
4. **Season the Zucchini**:
Sprinkle the hollowed-out zucchini halves with salt and pepper to season them. You can also drizzle a little olive oil on the zucchini to enhance the flavor and help them bake evenly.
5. **Add Fillings (Optional)**:
If you’re adding extra vegetables or meats to your zucchini baskets, now is the time to fill the hollowed-out center. Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or crumbled bacon work well as fillings. Add a small amount to each zucchini half, but be careful not to overfill, as you still need space for the egg.
6. **Crack the Eggs**:
Gently crack an egg into the center of each zucchini basket. Be careful not to break the yolk. If you find that the egg is too large for the zucchini, you can carefully remove some of the white with a spoon.
7. **Bake the Zucchini Egg Baskets**:
Place the filled zucchini baskets on a baking sheet and bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. The exact cooking time will depend on how runny or firm you want your egg yolk to be. If you prefer a runny yolk, check after 20 minutes. If you like a firmer egg, leave it in a little longer.
8. **Add Cheese (Optional)**:
In the last 5 minutes of baking, you can sprinkle cheese over the eggs if desired. This will melt beautifully on top of the egg and zucchini, adding extra flavor.
9. **Garnish and Serve**:
Once the eggs are done to your liking, remove the zucchini egg baskets from the oven. Garnish with fresh herbs such as basil, thyme, or parsley. You can also drizzle a little hot sauce or add a dollop of salsa for extra flavor.
10. **Serve Immediately**:
Zucchini egg baskets are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while the egg yolk is still warm and slightly runny. Serve them as part of a hearty breakfast, brunch, or light dinner.
### Nutritional Benefits of Zucchini Egg Baskets
Zucchini egg baskets are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional benefits of this dish:
– **Zucchini**: Zucchini is low in calories (approximately 20 calories per 100 grams) and rich in vitamins such as vitamin C and vitamin A. It also contains a decent amount of fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness. Zucchini is also high in antioxidants, which help protect the body from oxidative stress.
– **Eggs**: Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein, providing all nine essential amino acids. They are also rich in vitamins like B12, D, and choline, which are vital for brain and cell function. Eggs also contain healthy fats, which are important for energy and nutrient absorption.
– **Cheese** (if added): Cheese adds a source of calcium and protein to the dish, as well as extra flavor and richness. Opt for a lower-fat cheese if you are watching your calorie intake.
### Conclusion
Zucchini egg baskets are an original and creative way to enjoy a healthy and delicious meal. They are easy to make, customizable, and full of nutritious ingredients that will leave you feeling satisfied without the extra calories or carbs. Whether you’re following a keto, low-carb, or gluten-free diet, or simply want to enjoy a flavorful dish that’s both healthy and hearty, zucchini egg baskets are a perfect option.
So, why not give this innovative recipe a try? With minimal ingredients and just a few simple steps, you can enjoy a visually stunning and incredibly tasty dish that will soon become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
