| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 45 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 281 | 19g | 10g | 12g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 3g | 2g | 15g | 0.65g |
There’s something truly delightful about a dish that combines the simple elegance of fresh produce with the tantalizing allure of cheese and herbs. That’s why Baked Calabash with Cheese and Herbs is a recipe that I absolutely adore. It’s a perfect blending of the wholesome goodness of nature, seasoned and baked to create a culinary joy on the plate. This is not only a dish that’s aesthetically pleasing, but also incredibly healing considering the nutrition-packed stars of the show. Herbs and calabash both bring an array of health benefits to the table that range from fighting inflammation to supporting a strong immune system.
Why I Love Baked Calabash with Cheese and Herbs
Growing up in the valleys of California, the joy of fresh produce has always been embedded in my way of life. That’s one of the reasons why Baked Calabash with Cheese and Herbs speaks to me. The recipe takes me back to the simplicity of my Californian roots where the ingredient is the star, embellished lightly to accentuate its natural flavors. What’s beautiful about this dish is that it gives the calabash, frequently underrated in terms of flavor, a place to shine. Coupled with aromatic herbs, this dish dazzles not just the taste-buds, but also the nostrils.
A Perfect Partner
The versatility of this recipe also makes it a favorite of mine. Although utterly delicious on its own, this dish can shine just as bright as a flavorful side. Pair it alongside a grilled chicken with lemon and thyme or a lightly seasoned salmon with avocado, the combination is sure to impress. Whether you’re feeding a busy family, or creating a comforting meal for yourself, the ease and convenience of this recipe is truly commendable.
Health and Taste, Hand in Hand
In this recipe, the health benefits are as plentiful as the flavors. The calabash is gifted with a wealth of nutrients like Vitamin C and fiber, while being low in calories. What’s more, it’s a natural coolant, making it ideal for those hot summer days or after a rigorous workout. The trio of aromatic herbs: basil, thyme, and parsley, apart from adding depth of flavor, also pack their own health benefits. They are known for their antioxidant properties and also support a healthy immune system. Add some good quality Cheddar cheese for a cheesy treat that’s packed with protein and we’ve got ourselves a winner! It’s recipes like these that make me fall in love with cooking over and over again – ones that blend taste, tradition and nutrition into every mouthful.
What You’ll Need
- 1 Large Calabash (approx 3 lbs)
- 2 Cups of grated Cheddar Cheese
- 2 Tablespoons of Olive Oil
- 2 Tablespoons of fresh Thyme, chopped
- 2 Tablespoons of fresh Basil, chopped
- 2 Tablespoons of fresh Parsley, chopped
- 1 Tablespoon of Garlic Powder
- Salt to taste
- Black Pepper to taste
Method
Step One
First, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). While the oven is heating, thoroughly wash and dry your calabash.
Step Two
Next, cut the calabash in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the seeds and discard them. Use a knife to make several slashes inside the calabash to allow for better flavour absorption.
Step Three
Drizzle the inside of the calabash with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper and garlic powder, ensuring all surfaces are well covered. Place the calabash halves cut-side up on a baking tray.
Step Four
Place the baking tray in the preheated oven. Bake for about 45-60 minutes, or until the calabash becomes soft and starts to brown on the edges.
Step Five
While the calabash is baking, mix the grated cheese with the chopped herbs in a bowl. This will make the cheesy herb mix that goes on top of the calabash.
Step Six
After the calabash is cooked and soft, remove it from the oven. Carefully distribute the cheese and herb mixture evenly across the cut part of cooked calabash.
Step Seven
Return the calabash to the oven, and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and starts to brown. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
