This healthy ground turkey and zucchini skillet is packed with flavor and nutrition! It’s easy to whip up, using lean turkey and fresh zucchini, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.
I love how colorful it looks on my plate! Plus, it’s quick—just cook, stir, and you’re done. Just don’t forget to sneak in some extra veggies if you can—make it a veggie party! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: Lean ground turkey is the star here! It’s a healthy protein choice. You can substitute it with ground chicken or even lean beef if you prefer. If you’re looking for a plant-based version, try using lentils or textured vegetable protein.
Zucchini: Fresh, medium zucchinis add a nice texture and flavor. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash works well too. For a twist, you could also use bell peppers or eggplant for variety!
Black Beans: Canned black beans are perfect for this dish. They add fiber and protein. In a pinch, you can replace them with pinto beans, chickpeas, or kidney beans. Just make sure they’re rinsed!
Corn: Add some sweetness with corn! Fresh corn is great when in season, but frozen or canned corn is also just fine. If you’re avoiding corn, consider using peas or diced carrots instead.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings a burst of flavor. If you’re not a fan, parsley is a good substitute, or you can skip it altogether. Also, a squeeze of lime can brighten flavors even without cilantro.
How Do I Get the Zucchini Just Right?
Great question! To make sure your zucchini is tender yet still holds its shape, follow these steps:
- Cut the zucchini into even chunks so they cook at the same rate.
- Don’t overcook it! Add it during the last few minutes of cooking to keep it vibrant and crunchy.
- Stir occasionally, but not too often; give it some time to sear slightly for added flavor.
This will keep your zucchini deliciously fresh in your skillet dish!
Healthy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skillet:
- 1 lb ground turkey (lean)
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- 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 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Lime wedges for serving
- Optional: sliced jalapeños for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes of cooking time. So, in about 30 minutes, you can have a delicious and healthy meal ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Veggies:
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. This is where a lot of your flavor begins!
2. Cook the Turkey:
Next, add the ground turkey to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Keep cooking until it’s browned and fully cooked through, which should take about 6-8 minutes. No pink should remain!
3. Spice It Up:
Once the turkey is cooked, stir in the cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix it all together well to ensure the turkey is evenly coated with all those lovely spices. This will give your dish a wonderful aroma!
4. Add the Veggies:
Now it’s time to add the diced zucchini, black beans, corn, and diced tomato to the skillet. Give everything a good stir to combine. It’s looking vibrant and colorful already!
5. Cook Until Tender:
Let everything cook together for another 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally until the zucchini is tender but still bright green. You want it to maintain some crunch!
6. Finish with Cilantro:
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped cilantro. This will add a fresh flavor that brightens the dish.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your hearty meal warm! Garnish with extra cilantro, lime wedges, and optional jalapeño slices on the side for some heat. This dish is fantastic on its own or you can pair it with brown rice or quinoa for a more filling meal.
Enjoy your vibrant and healthy skillet!
FAQ for Healthy Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet
Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef for ground turkey if you prefer. Just keep in mind that using beef will increase the fat content, so consider using lean ground beef for a healthier option.
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 until heated through. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating!
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Absolutely! This skillet is very versatile. Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or carrots. Just chop them into small pieces and add them along with the zucchini for even cooking!
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This dish is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it over brown rice, quinoa, or even alongside a fresh salad. For a low-carb option, consider pairing it with cauliflower rice or a bed of leafy greens.
