Quick Zucchini Cheese Boats

Omit the bacon for a vegetarian treat- a great side dish for almost any meal. Gruyere is the recommended cheese, but it should work well with sharp cheddar too, for a much different flavor.

• Ready In: 50 mins
• Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 6  large zucchini
• 1  tablespoon olive oil
• 4  slices bacon, chopped
• 1⁄2 teaspoon  onion salt
• 1⁄4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1⁄4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1⁄4 teaspoon cayenne
• 1⁄4 cup  unseasoned breadcrumbs
• 1  cup  shredded gruyere cheese

Directions

1. Heat oven to 375°F.
2. coat a 9 by 13 glass cooking dish with cooking spray. Cut 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick lengthwise slice from each zucchini.
3. Chop the slices and reserve.
4. Scoop out most of the flesh from each zucchini, leaving just a shell.
5. Chop together the flesh and add the spices from above.
6. In a large non-stick skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat.
7. Add the chopped bacon and cook for three minutes.
8. Then add the zucchini mixture.
9. Cook, stirring occasionally for 7 minutes (about).
10. Stir in bread crumbs and 3/4 cup of the cheese.
11. Cook for another minute more.
12. Spoon about 1/2 cup filling into each zucchini boat.
13. Place each boat in the baking dish and add 1/4 cup hot water to the dish.
14. Cover with foil.
15. Bake at 375°F for 25 minutes.
16. Uncover and sprinkle the tops with the remaining cheese.
17. Bake, uncovered, for 5 more minutes until cheese is melted.