Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet with Tomatoes

Lean ground turkey sautéed with diced zucchini, garlic, and crushed tomatoes, seasoned with oregano and basil. This quick one-pan dinner comes together in under 30 minutes, with no added sugar or sweetened sauces. The turkey stays tender, the zucchini softens just enough to keep a bit of bite, and the tomatoes break down into a light, herb-scented sauce. Serve it over cauliflower rice, with a side of greens, or eat it straight from the skillet.

By TasteBuds

Recipe details

Yield
4 people
Prep time
10 minutes
Cook time
20 minutes
Total time
25 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground turkey (93% lean or leaner)
  • 2 medium zucchini, diced into ½-inch cubes
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes (no sugar added)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
  • ¼ tsp black pepper, freshly ground
  • a small handful fresh basil, torn or chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Dice 2 medium zucchini into ½-inch cubes.
  2. Mince 4 cloves garlic.
  3. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  4. Add 1 lb lean ground turkey to the skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook, stirring occasionally, until the turkey is browned and cooked through, about 6 minutes. The meat should be crumbly and no longer pink.
  5. Add 4 cloves garlic, minced to the skillet. Stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Add 2 medium zucchini, diced to the skillet. Stir and cook for 3 minutes until the zucchini starts to soften but still has some firmness.
  7. Pour in 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes (no sugar added). Add 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried basil, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper, freshly ground. Stir everything together.
  8. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it cook for 8 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the zucchini is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
  9. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. Remove from heat.
  10. If using, top with a small handful fresh basil, torn or chopped. Serve hot.