4 medium zucchini, cut lengthwise, cut off ends and scoop out flesh center to make a boat
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 yellow onion diced
2 large cloves garlic minced
1 pound ground Italian sausage
1 red bell pepper diced
1 cup pizza sauce plus more for serving
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated parmesan
chopped Italian parsley for garnish
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and set aside.
Place the zucchini halves on the prepared baking sheet, drizzle with a little olive oil. Place in the oven and bake for 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for one minute, then add the sausage. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, breaking apart the meat as it cooks. Add the diced bell peppers and cook for an additional 4 minutes, until vegetables are soft.
Stir in the sauce and Italian seasoning. Bring to a simmer and cook just until the sauce is heated through.
Spoon the filling mixture into the partially cooked zucchini halves. Top with the grated mozzarella cheese and place back in the oven. Bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with parmesan cheese and chopped Italian parsley. Serve immediately with additional sauce on the side.
