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Savory Cheesy Ground Turkey Stuffed Zucchini Boats Easy Recipe with Salsa Verde

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These savory cheesy ground turkey stuffed zucchini boats with salsa verde are a quick, healthy, and flavorful weeknight dinner option that combines lean protein, fresh veggies, and a melty cheese topping with a zesty salsa verde finish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium zucchinis, halved lengthwise and scooped out
  • 1 pound (450g) ground turkey, lean or regular
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese (about 100g)
  • ½ cup (120ml) salsa verde, store-bought or homemade
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Fresh cilantro, a handful chopped (optional for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and some flesh, leaving about a ½-inch thick shell. Save the scooped flesh for cooking.
  3. Brush the zucchini boats lightly with olive oil and place them in a baking dish, hollow side up.
  4. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Add ground turkey to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Chop the saved zucchini flesh finely and add it to the skillet with the turkey.
  8. Stir in tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes to meld flavors.
  9. Spoon the turkey mixture evenly into each zucchini half, filling generously but not overpacking.
  10. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top of each zucchini boat.
  11. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until zucchini is tender and cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  12. Remove from oven and spoon salsa verde over each boat while still hot. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
  13. Serve warm.

Notes

Use room temperature cheese for even melting and a golden crust. Brush zucchini boats lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking. Watch baking time carefully to avoid mushy zucchini or burnt cheese. You can substitute ground chicken or turkey sausage for turkey, and use dairy-free cheese for a vegan option. Salsa verde adds a fresh, zesty contrast that elevates the dish.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini boats, ground turkey, stuffed zucchini, cheesy zucchini, salsa verde, healthy dinner, low carb, easy recipe, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://sagestirs.com/savory-cheesy-ground-turkey-stuffed-zucchini-boats-easy-recipe-with-salsa-verde/