This Healthy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet is a simple and tasty dish! It combines ground turkey with fresh zucchini, making it both light and full of flavor.
I love how quick it is to whip up—just toss everything in a skillet, and you’ve got dinner in no time. Plus, your kitchen will smell wonderful while it cooks! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: Lean ground turkey keeps this dish light. If you’re looking for alternatives, ground chicken works well too. For a vegetarian option, try using crumbled tofu or lentils.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis add a nice crunch. Don’t worry if you can’t find them—yellow squash or bell peppers are great substitutes!
Black Beans: Canned black beans are convenient and packed with protein. If you’re in a pinch, kidney beans or chickpeas can be used instead.
Corn: Fresh corn kernels bring sweetness, but canned or frozen corn can also work. If you prefer, you can skip it altogether and add more veggies.
Cilantro: This herb adds freshness to the dish. If you’re not a fan, try parsley or green onions instead!
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Zucchini?
Cooking zucchini just right keeps it tender and adds flavor without becoming mushy. Here are my tips:
- Cut zucchini into even pieces so they cook at the same rate.
- Cook them covered for a few minutes, then uncover to let excess moisture evaporate.
- Stir occasionally to allow even cooking, making sure to keep an eye on them; they only need about 5-7 minutes!
Following these steps helps you achieve that nice balance of tender but crisp zucchini in your skillet!
Healthy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground turkey (lean)
- 2 medium zucchinis, chopped into half-moons or chunks
- 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 lime, cut into wedges for serving
- Optional: sliced jalapeño for garnish/spice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and approximately 15 minutes to cook, making the total time around 25 minutes. It’s quick, healthy, and perfect for a busy weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and fragrant.
2. Cook the Ground Turkey:
Next, add the ground turkey to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until the turkey is fully browned and no longer pink. Stir occasionally to ensure it’s cooked evenly.
3. Season the Turkey:
Once the turkey is cooked, sprinkle in the ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well so that the turkey is seasoned evenly. This will add wonderful flavor to your dish.
4. Add the Vegetables:
Now it’s time to add the zucchini, black beans, corn, and diced tomato to the skillet. Stir to combine all the ingredients well. This colorful mix will make your meal not only tasty but visually appealing!
5. Cook the Zucchini:
Cover the skillet with a lid and let the mixture cook for about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally. This will allow the zucchini to become tender but still keep a slight crispness to it.
6. Finish It Off:
After the zucchini is cooked to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped cilantro. The fresh herb adds a bright touch to the dish.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish up the turkey and zucchini mixture into bowls and serve with fresh lime wedges on the side. Feel free to garnish with extra cilantro and sliced jalapeños for an extra kick if you like some spice!
This Healthy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet is not only quick and easy to make but also packed with nutrition. Enjoy your delicious meal! 🌟
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute for ground turkey, offering similar texture and flavor. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary slightly based on the fat content.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, this skillet dish can be frozen! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What Other Veggies Can I Add?
This recipe is quite versatile! Feel free to add bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra veggies. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure everything is tender.
