Hearty Stuffed Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef and Cheese - Recipes by Lena

Ingredients

• 4 medium zucchini (8-10 inches each, firm, smooth skin)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound lean ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or sausage)
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce or marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• 1/2 cup cooked rice or quinoa (optional)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)