Hey there, foodie friends!
Looking for a fun twist on dinner? I’ve got a delicious one for you.
Today, I’m diving into zoodles with ground turkey!
These zucchini noodles are light, fresh, and oh-so-satisfying.
Plus, they’re packed with protein and flavor.
Perfect for a healthy meal that won’t weigh you down!
Let’s get started!
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground turkey can be replaced with ground chicken or lean ground beef for similar protein content and texture. For a plant-based option, crumbled firm tofu or textured vegetable protein (TVP) can be used, though cooking times may need adjustment. Zucchini noodles (zoodles) can be substituted with spiralized carrots, butternut squash, or sweet potatoes for different flavors and nutrient profiles. These alternatives maintain the low-carb aspect of the dish while offering varied vitamins and minerals. Mushrooms can be swapped with eggplant or bell peppers for different textures and flavors. These substitutions provide similar bulk and umami notes to the dish. When using eggplant, consider salting and draining it before cooking to remove excess moisture.
| Preparation Time | 15-20 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 60-70 minutes |
| Total Time | 75-90 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Medium |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 300-350
- Protein: 30-35 g
- Fat: 15-20 g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25 g
Ingredients
- 1 whole onion
- Ground turkey
- Mushrooms
- Zucchini
- Parsley
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Begin by chopping a whole onion and setting it aside for later use.
Next, cut the zucchini in half and remove the ends in preparation for spiralizing later.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Turkey
Heat an induction cooktop or stovetop and add the ground turkey to a pot.
Cook the turkey until it is browned, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
This should take about 5-10 minutes.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Simmer the Sauce
After the ground turkey is browned, add the chopped onions to the pot and mix well.
Cook for about 5 minutes until the onions soften.
Then, add the chopped mushrooms to the pot.
Continue cooking the mixture on a low simmer, allowing the flavors to meld, for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Step 4: Spiralize the Zucchini
Secure the spiralizer noodle maker in place using the locking mechanism.
Insert the prepared zucchini into the spiralizer and turn the handle to create zucchini noodles.
Once the noodles are formed, gently break them apart with your hands for easier cooking.
Step 5: Sauté the Zucchini Noodles
In a separate pan, sauté the zucchini noodles for about 2 minutes over medium heat until they are slightly softened.
Be sure not to overcook them, as they can become mushy.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve the Dish
Plate the sautéed zucchini noodles and top with the ground turkey meat sauce.
Optionally, sprinkle some parsley on top for a fresh garnish.
Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful zucchini spaghetti with ground turkey meat sauce.
