Certainly! Here’s a revised version of the Meatball Zucchini Boats recipe, tailored to be Weight Watchers-friendly. I’ve included adjustments to make the recipe lighter and more suitable for those following the Weight Watchers program, along with nutrition and SmartPoints information.

Weight Watchers-Friendly Meatball Zucchini Boats

Total Time

  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

  • 3 Large Zucchini: Cut in half lengthwise
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil: For drizzling and cooking
  • ½ tsp Garlic Powder
  • ½ tsp Italian Seasoning
  • 1 lb Lean Ground Beef (or Lean Ground Turkey for fewer calories)
  • ¼ cup Fresh Parsley: Chopped
  • 2 tsp Garlic: Minced
  • 1 Large Egg
  • 1 cup Reduced-Fat Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded
  • 2 cups Low-Sugar Marinara Sauce
  • ½ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
  • Salt and Pepper: To taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Prepare Zucchini: Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and hollow out the center of each half to create boats.
  3. Season Zucchini Boats: Place the zucchini boats in a 9×13 baking dish. Drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil, and season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  4. Bake Zucchini: Bake the zucchini boats in the preheated oven for 12 minutes to soften slightly.
  5. Prepare Meatballs:
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or turkey), egg, chopped parsley, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
  • Form the mixture into 20-24 small meatballs.
  • Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and cook for about 2 minutes per side, or until browned.
  1. Simmer Meatballs:
  • Reduce the heat to medium. Pour the low-sugar marinara sauce into the skillet with the meatballs. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the meatballs to cook through and absorb the sauce.
  1. Assemble Zucchini Boats:
  • Remove the partially baked zucchini boats from the oven. Top each with a spoonful of the marinara sauce and meatballs.
  • Sprinkle with shredded reduced-fat mozzarella cheese.
  1. Broil:
  • Set the oven to broil on high. Place the baking dish under the broiler and broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 2-4 minutes. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
  1. Finish and Serve:
  • Remove from the oven and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving. Enjoy your flavorful and Weight Watchers-friendly meal!

Nutrition Information (per serving, assuming 6 servings):

  • Calories: 210
  • Protein: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fat: 9g
  • Fiber: 3g

Weight Watchers Smart Points

  • Smart Points (per serving): 6 Smart Points