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In the world of healthy eating, finding meals that are both nutritious and satisfying can often feel like a challenge. Enter Zesty Turkey & Quinoa Stuffed Zucchini, a delightful dish that perfectly balances flavor and health benefits. This recipe is not just a meal; it's a celebration of fresh ingredients and clever cooking that transforms simple zucchini into a savory vessel packed with wholesome goodness. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, this stuffed zucchini is sure to impress.

Healthy Turkey and Quinoa Stuffed Zucchini

Discover the deliciousness of Zesty Turkey & Quinoa Stuffed Zucchini, a meal that combines flavor and nutrition seamlessly. This recipe transforms simple zucchini into delightful boats filled with lean turkey, protein-rich quinoa, and colorful vegetables. Perfect for any dietary preference, this dish is adaptable and great for meal prep. Packed with vitamins and minerals, it promises satisfaction and health benefits. Explore this versatile, wholesome recipe and elevate your healthy cooking game.

Ingredients
  

4 medium zucchinis

1 pound ground turkey (preferably lean)

1 cup cooked quinoa

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 bell pepper (any color), diced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon cumin

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Prepare Zucchini: Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides using a spoon to create boats, leaving around 1/4 inch of zucchini flesh. Set aside.

      Cook Turkey Mixture: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing until soft (about 3-4 minutes).

        Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

          Brown the Turkey: Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it is browned and cooked thoroughly (around 5-7 minutes).

            Mix Ingredients: Once the turkey is cooked, stir in the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.

              Stuff Zucchini: Carefully spoon the turkey and quinoa mixture into each zucchini boat, pressing it down lightly to fit more filling if needed.

                Top with Cheese: If desired, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the stuffed zucchinis.

                  Bake: Place the stuffed zucchinis in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

                    Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with fresh parsley or basil, and serve hot.

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                        15 minutes | 40 minutes | Serves 4