Ground Turkey Zucchini Skillet: The Ultimate Easy Meal Recipe
Introduction to Ground Turkey Zucchini Skillet
This Ground Turkey Zucchini Skillet is a delightful dish that combines health and flavor in a quick and easy meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is packed with protein and fresh vegetables, making it a wholesome choice for everyone at the table. Whether you’re cooking for family or just for yourself, this dish is sure to satisfy your hunger without taking too much time out of your day.
A Personal Story Behind My Ground Turkey Zucchini Skillet Journey
Growing up, my family often relied on one-pan meals to keep dinner simple yet delicious. One of my favorites was a stir-fry, where every ingredient seemed to come together in harmony. This Ground Turkey Zucchini Skillet recipe reminds me of those cozy evenings spent at the dinner table, sharing stories and laughter. Now, it’s a staple in my own home, bringing the same joy and comfort to my family.
What Makes This Ground Turkey Zucchini Skillet Recipe Special?
What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity and versatility. Not only does it require just a handful of ingredients, but it also allows for easy modifications based on what you have on hand. The combination of ground turkey and zucchini creates a satisfying texture, while the savory sauce adds a burst of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies into your meal!
The Full Ground Turkey Zucchini Skillet Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 garlic clove, grated
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 large zucchini (about 3/4 lb), sliced and quartered
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- 1 lb. ground turkey
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce by combining soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, grated garlic, grated ginger, cornstarch, water, and chili garlic sauce in a bowl. Mix well and set aside. This sauce is the heart of the dish, giving it that rich flavor.
- Dice the onion and slice the zucchini into rounds, then quarter the rounds. Make sure to cut them evenly for uniform cooking.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat, add cooking oil, then sauté the diced onion and zucchini for 4-5 minutes until the onion is translucent and the zucchini is lightly browned. This step enhances the flavors of the vegetables. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, cook the ground turkey until browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Return the sautéed veggies to the skillet with the turkey. Pour the sauce over the mixture, ensuring everything is coated well.
- Let the sauce simmer for 2 minutes to thicken and coat the turkey and zucchini. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
- Remove the skillet from heat. Serve hot with optional sliced green onions, red pepper flakes, sesame seeds, and cooked rice for a complete meal.
- Enjoy your delicious turkey zucchini stir-fry!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Ground Turkey Zucchini Skillet
This Ground Turkey Zucchini Skillet is fantastic on its own, but you can also serve it over a bed of rice or quinoa for added texture. For a low-carb option, consider serving it over cauliflower rice. You can also add in other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots, or even some chopped spinach for added nutrients. Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more chili garlic sauce or incorporating a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Turkey Zucchini Skillet
Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?
Yes, you can replace turkey with ground beef for a richer flavor, but the cooking time may vary slightly.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the skillet or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the skillet for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
No alcoholic drinks allowed, please substitute with a non-alcoholic option.
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 300
- Servings: 4
Savor the flavors of this quick and tasty stir-fry for a satisfying meal!
Ground Turkey Zucchini Skillet
Equipment
- Skillet Large skillet for sautéing ingredients
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 0.25 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, grated
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 large zucchini, sliced and quartered
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- 1 lb ground turkey
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce by combining soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, grated garlic, grated ginger, cornstarch, water, and chili garlic sauce in a bowl. Mix well and set aside.
- Dice the onion and slice the zucchini into rounds, then quarter the rounds. Make sure to cut them evenly for uniform cooking.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat, add cooking oil, then sauté the diced onion and zucchini for 4-5 minutes until the onion is translucent and the zucchini is lightly browned. This step enhances the flavors of the vegetables. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, cook the ground turkey until browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Return the sautéed veggies to the skillet with the turkey. Pour the sauce over the mixture, ensuring everything is coated well.
- Let the sauce simmer for 2 minutes to thicken and coat the turkey and zucchini. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
- Remove the skillet from heat. Serve hot with optional sliced green onions, red pepper flakes, sesame seeds, and cooked rice for a complete meal.
- Enjoy your delicious turkey zucchini stir-fry!