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Low Carb Turkey Zucchini Skillet

Low Carb Turkey Zucchini Skillet

A quick and nutritious low-carb dinner combining lean ground turkey and fresh zucchini in a flavorful skillet meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is easy to prepare, healthy, and packed with vibrant herbs and spices, offering a wholesome, satisfying one-pan dish with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground turkey
  • 2 medium zucchinis, chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 small onion, minced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste or 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes and Variations

  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
  • Red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper (for heat)
  • Shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese (for topping)
  • Additional veggies: bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms
  • Coconut oil (for paleo/keto variation)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Chop the zucchini into bite-sized pieces and mince the garlic and onion. Having everything ready beforehand ensures a smooth cooking process and even flavor distribution.
  2. Cook the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent to create a flavorful base for the dish.
  3. Brown the Ground Turkey: Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until no longer pink and lightly golden to enhance flavor.
  4. Add Zucchini and Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped zucchini and tomato paste or diced tomatoes. Season with paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to combine all the ingredients.
  5. Simmer and Finish: Reduce heat slightly, cover the skillet, and let it cook for about 8-10 minutes until the zucchini is tender but still holds its shape. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Notes

  • Pat zucchini dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture and a watery skillet.
  • Add fresh parsley or basil right before serving for brightness and color.
  • Cover while cooking to promote even cooking without burning the turkey.
  • Do not overcook zucchini; keep it slightly firm for the best texture and appearance.
  • Adjust salt towards the end to prevent over-seasoning, especially if using canned tomatoes.

Nutrition

Keywords: low carb, turkey skillet, zucchini, healthy dinner, quick meal, one-pan, gluten free