These Healthy Ground Turkey Taco Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a fun way to enjoy tacos without the carbs! Each zucchini is filled with seasoned turkey, beans, and cheese, making them tasty and satisfying.
I love how they’re like little boats sailing into a sea of flavor! 🌊 Plus, they’re quick to make and perfect for a healthy dinner. Feel free to add your favorite toppings, like salsa or avocado!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Zucchini is the star here, offering a low-carb base. If zucchini isn’t your thing, you can try yellow squash or bell peppers as substitutes.
Ground Turkey: Ground turkey is lean and healthy, but you can use ground chicken or even lentils for a vegetarian option. I often swap in turkey sausage for extra flavor!
Black Beans: Canned black beans are convenient, but you may substitute with kidney beans or pinto beans. If you prefer a lighter dish, skip the beans entirely.
Cheese: While reduced-fat cheddar is great for keeping it healthy, feel free to use regular cheddar or omit cheese for a dairy-free version. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor!
How Do You Scoop Out Zucchini for Boats?
Creating the perfect zucchini boats is simple! Here’s how to do it right:
- First, cut the zucchini in half lengthwise. Use a sharp knife for a clean cut.
- Next, take a spoon with a curved edge and gently scoop out the center seeds and some flesh, leaving about 1/4 inch thick walls. This creates space for delicious filling.
- Be careful not to poke through the bottom of the zucchini to prevent leaks.
This technique helps your boats hold all the tasty filling without falling apart!
Healthy Ground Turkey Taco Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini Boats:
- 4 medium zucchinis
For the Stuffing:
- 1 lb (450g) ground turkey
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take approximately 10 minutes to prep and about 20 minutes to cook. Altogether, you can have your delicious and healthy dinner ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for your zucchini boats when it’s time to bake.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchinis and slice them in half lengthwise. With a spoon, carefully scoop out the seeds and some of the flesh to create little “boats,” leaving about 1/4 inch thick walls. Don’t forget to set aside the scooped zucchini flesh for later!
3. Cook the Filling:
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté them until they’re softened, which should take about 3 minutes. Now add the ground turkey and cook it until it’s browned and fully cooked, using a spoon to break it up.
4. Add Seasoning and Veggies:
Once the turkey is cooked through, stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute to let those spices toast a bit. Next, chop the reserved zucchini flesh finely and mix it in with the black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Cook everything together for about 4-5 minutes until it’s heated through and any extra liquid has evaporated.
5. Stuff the Zucchini Boats:
Now it’s time for the fun part! Spoon the turkey mixture into the zucchini boats, dividing it evenly among them. If you’re using cheese, sprinkle it on top of the mixture.
6. Bake in the Oven:
Place the stuffed zucchini boats onto a baking sheet and pop them in the oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re done, take the zucchini boats out of the oven and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve them with lime wedges for an extra zesty kick. Enjoy your Healthy Ground Turkey Taco Stuffed Zucchini Boats!
These delightful little boats are packed with flavor and make for a nutritious and satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While ground turkey keeps it lean, you can substitute it with ground chicken, beef, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on your choice.
Can I Prepare the Zucchini Boats in Advance?
Yes, you can! You can prepare the filling and stuff the zucchini boats a day ahead. Just cover them tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to eat, simply bake them according to the instructions, adding an extra few minutes if they’re cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or microwave them until warmed through.
What Can I Serve With the Zucchini Boats?
These zucchini boats pair wonderfully with a side of rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with your favorite salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for added flavor!
