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Hey there, pasta lovers!
Are you craving something delicious but want to keep it light? I’ve got just the thing for you!
Today, I’m sharing my favorite recipe for zoodles with turkey meatballs.
That’s right—zoodles! They’re a fun, healthy twist on traditional pasta.
Pair them with savory turkey meatballs, and you’ve got a meal that’s both satisfying and guilt-free!
Let’s dive into this scrumptious dish!
Possible Ingredient Alternatives
Ground turkey can be replaced with ground chicken or lean ground beef for different flavor profiles while maintaining a similar protein content. For a plant-based option, use crumbled firm tofu or lentils, adjusting seasoning as needed to enhance flavor.
Mayo can be substituted with Greek yogurt or mashed avocado to reduce fat content and add nutritional benefits. Use the same amount as called for in the recipe, but note that the texture may be slightly different.
Spiralized zucchini (zoodles) can be swapped with spiralized carrots, butternut squash, or spaghetti squash for varied flavors and textures. These alternatives offer different nutritional profiles while maintaining the low-carb aspect of the dish. Cooking times may need to be adjusted depending on the vegetable used. For a higher-carb option, whole wheat pasta or legume-based pasta can be used instead of zoodles.
| Preparation Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 20-30 minutes |
| Total Time | 30-45 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Easy |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 1200-1400
- Protein: 90-100 g
- Fat: 80-90 g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40 g
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds ground turkey (24 oz)
- 1/4 cup mayo
- Salt and pepper, as needed
- 1 teaspoon onion seasoning
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups low-carb tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to your liking
- 1 1/2 pounds spiralized zucchini (24 oz)
- 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients and Mix the Meatball Mixture
Begin by measuring out and preparing all the necessary ingredients.
In a bowl, combine the ground turkey, mayonnaise, salt, pepper, and onion powder.
Stir and mash everything together until the ingredients are well combined.
Step 2: Form the Meatballs
Using your hands, roll the turkey mixture into balls, aiming for the size of a typical meatball.
Make sure they are uniform in size to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
Heat a frying pan over medium heat and add some olive oil.
Once the oil is hot, carefully place the meatballs in the pan.
Cook the meatballs for about 2-4 minutes per side, ensuring they are browned on each side.
Use a slotted spoon to remove the meatballs from the pan, allowing excess oil to drip off.
Set the cooked meatballs aside and leave the excess oil in the pan.
Step 4: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
In the same pan, add Rao’s tomato sauce along with a bit more olive oil.
Season the sauce with salt and pepper, and stir it well.
Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Step 5: Warm the Meatballs in the Sauce
Add the meatballs back into the pan with the tomato sauce.
Let them warm up and get coated in the sauce, ensuring they are heated through completely.
Step 6: Cook and Serve the Zucchini Noodles
In a separate pot, boil the spiralized zucchini for 1-2 minutes, just until they become tender.
Drain the zucchini noodles and place them in a serving bowl.
Drizzle lightly with olive oil for added flavor.
Step 7: Plate and Garnish
Arrange the zucchini noodles on serving plates and top with the turkey meatballs.
Garnish with fresh basil for an aromatic touch.
Serve and enjoy your healthy, delicious meal!
