Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Zucchini Boats Recipe

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s start with what you’ll need to make these stuffed zucchini boats. You likely already have many of these ingredients in your kitchen:

Main Ingredients:

  • Zucchini: Medium-sized zucchini works best for this recipe. Aim for uniform sizes for even cooking.
  • Ground Turkey: Lean turkey keeps the dish light and flavorful.
  • Spinach: Fresh spinach for that vibrant green goodness.
  • Cheese: Mozzarella for the topping and a touch of Parmesan for added flavor.

For the Filling:

  • Onion: Finely diced for a subtle sweetness.
  • Garlic: Minced garlic to enhance the flavor profile.
  • Tomato Sauce: Adds moisture and a touch of tanginess.
  • Olive Oil: For sautéing and roasting.
  • Herbs and Spices: Think Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.

This may contain: zucchini stuffed with meat and cheese on a black plate

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Zucchini Boats

Preparing the Zucchini

First things first—prepping the zucchini.

  1. Halve and Hollow: Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise. Using a spoon or melon baller, scoop out the center to create a cavity. Don’t toss the pulp—you’ll need it for the filling.
  2. Season Lightly: Drizzle the hollowed zucchini halves with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
  3. Pre-Bake: Bake the zucchini halves in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes. This softens them slightly, ensuring they cook evenly once stuffed.

Cooking the Filling

The filling is where all the magic happens. Here’s how to make it:

  1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
  2. Cook the Turkey: Add ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Incorporate Spinach: Toss in fresh spinach and cook until wilted. This adds both color and nutrients to the filling.
  4. Mix in the Zucchini Pulp and Sauce: Chop the scooped-out zucchini pulp and stir it into the mixture along with tomato sauce. Let it simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.

Assembling the Boats

Once your filling is ready, it’s time to assemble:

  1. Stuff Generously: Spoon the filling into each zucchini cavity, packing it in tightly.
  2. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan over the top.
  3. Bake to Perfection: Return the stuffed zucchini to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Wrapping It Up: Why This Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite

These Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Zucchini Boats are more than just a recipe—they’re a solution for busy weeknights, a crowd-pleaser for gatherings, and a healthier way to enjoy comfort food. With their vibrant colors, delightful textures, and robust flavors, they’re a dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab those zucchinis and start cooking! Dinner’s about to get a whole lot more exciting.

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