Stuffed Zucchini – Happy ZZZs

Psst. Wanna know how to get a good night’s sleep? Check out the Fitbit One. It’s a minuscule device that measures your every move. Hook it onto your pocket or bra and head on out. You’ll be spurred into walking your tootsies off, and afterwards, depleted enough to easily drift into the land of nod.

When you’re ready for bed, simply slide your Fitbit into its lightweight nighttime cuff (fashionable and comfortable, even while sleeping). Knowing your sleep is being watched will encourage you to simmer down, retire from the day’s concerns and give in to sleep’s sweet surrender.

And speaking of  ZZZs — Are you looking for new and creative ways to get satiated without weighing yourself down? These Stuffed Zucchini are light as a feather yet packed with energy-boosting goodness.

Stuffed Zucchini

• 6 zucchini, halved lengthwise

Sauce

• 1 T olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, chopped
• 1/4 c chopped sun-dried tomatoes
• 1 28 oz can diced tomatoes
• 1 t kosher salt
• freshly ground black pepper

Stuffing

• 1 c quinoa, cooked (makes just over 2 cups when cooked)
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 2 T each chopped basil, parsley, plus more as garnish
• 1 t kosher salt
• 1/2 t dried oregano
• 3 T roasted, unsalted sunflower seeds
• 3 oz grated mozzarella
• 1 oz Parmesan

Preheat oven to 400F.

In a large pan, over medium heat, heat oil, then add onion. Cook, stirring, for 4 minutes. Add garlic, and cook for 30 seconds. Mix in canned and sun-dried tomatoes and bring to a boil, then simmer, covered for 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Spread the sauce onto the bottom of a large roasting pan.

Now place quinoa in the pan you used to cook the sauce. Add fresh tomato, basil, parsley, oregano, sunflower seeds, mozzarella and Parmesan. Stir to combine.

Final notes:

• Still having problems sleeping? Try a vial of 6 Hour Sleep, an elixir with antioxidants like mangosteen and acai. Tastes pretty good and pushes you over the brink when you’re teetering on the edge of sleeplessness.
• Stuffed Zucchini was inspired by this Aussie Couscous Herb and Seed Stuffed Vegetable recipe.
• Wondering how to keep from gaining weight on vacation?
• Did you know that daily walking is the best anti-aging prescription?
• Getting too much sleep? Watch The Night Of and perhaps you’ll stay up all night wondering who done it.