Smoked Sausage-Stuffed Zucchini

Ingredients

4 medium zucchini (about 2½ pounds)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground pepper
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
2 scallions, sliced, whites and greens separated
1 cup cooked brown rice
4 ounces cooked smoked sausage links, chopped
½ teaspoon paprika, preferably smoked
½ cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese

Preparation

  1. Cut zucchini in half lengthwise. Cut a thin slice off the bottoms so each half sits flat. Scoop out the pulp, leaving a ¼-inch shell. (Discard the pulp or reserve for another use.) Place the zucchini halves in a microwave-safe dish and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cover and microwave on High until tender-crisp, 3 to 5 minutes. Uncover.
  2. Meanwhile, heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add bell pepper and scallion whites. Cook, stirring, until tender, about 2 minutes. Add rice, sausage and paprika. Cook, stirring, until warmed throughout, about 1 minute more.
  3. Position rack in upper third of oven; preheat broiler to high.
  4. Transfer the zucchini to a broiler-safe pan (or pans). Fill the zucchini halves with the rice mixture and sprinkle with cheese. Broil on the upper rack until the cheese has melted, about 2 minutes. Garnish with scallion greens.

Smoked Sausage-Stuffed Zucchini