Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet: Your New Favorite One-Pan Weeknight Meal

In the whirlwind of weeknight cooking, we are all searching for that elusive recipe: something healthy, incredibly flavorful, quick to clean up, and satisfying for the whole family. Look no further. The Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet is the culinary hero you’ve been waiting for. This dish combines lean ground turkey, tender summer zucchini, and rich Italian aromatics into a vibrant, hearty meal cooked entirely in one pan.

Forget spending an hour sweating over multiple pots and pans. This recipe is designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it the perfect solution for busy schedules. Whether you are meal prepping for the week, trying to increase your vegetable intake, or simply craving savory comfort food without the heavy carbs, this easy skillet meal delivers on all fronts. We’ll guide you through achieving perfectly browned turkey, perfectly tender-crisp zucchini, and a rich tomato-based sauce that coats every bite. Get ready to add this healthy turkey recipe to your permanent rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet

There are countless reasons why this Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet has become a staple in modern kitchens, transcending mere convenience to become a genuinely enjoyable cooking experience. It is the epitome of smart, healthy cooking, packaged in a single, easy-to-manage skillet.

Firstly, the factor of speed is unmatched. From start to finish, you are looking at under 30 minutes. This is a crucial benefit for anyone balancing work, family, or demanding schedules. The quick nature of cooking lean ground turkey combined with the fast-cooking time of zucchini means dinner is served before hunger truly sets in. Unlike recipes that require long roasting or slow braising, this method ensures a delicious, homemade meal is always within reach, even on your most hectic evenings.

Secondly, cleanup is a breeze. Because this is a true one-pan dinner, the amount of dishes generated is drastically reduced. We all know the post-dinner dread of a sink piled high with pots, pans, and serving dishes. With the Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet, you use one large skillet and a cutting board. That’s it! This simplicity adds immense value, turning cooking from a chore into a seamless part of your evening routine.

Thirdly, the nutritional profile is outstanding. Using lean ground turkey instead of beef significantly cuts down on saturated fat while providing an excellent source of high-quality protein necessary for muscle maintenance and satiety. Zucchini, often referred to as a “power vegetable,” adds essential fiber, antioxidants, and a host of vitamins (like Vitamin C and A) with very few calories. This dish naturally supports low-carb and macro-friendly eating patterns without sacrificing taste or substance. The incorporation of robust seasonings like Italian seasoning and basil ensures the flavor remains dynamic and satisfying, distracting entirely from the fact that you are eating something incredibly wholesome.

Finally, the adaptability of this quick zucchini dinner is a major selling point. It pairs beautifully with almost any side—rice, quinoa, crusty bread, or even served over a bed of greens. It’s also freezer-friendly and reheats wonderfully, making it ideal for large-batch cooking and subsequent lunches. It truly is a versatile, nourishing, and efficient recipe that you will look forward to making again and again.

Why You Should Try This Recipe Now

The time to embrace the Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet is now, especially if you are seeking flavorful ways to navigate the shift in seasons or simply want to introduce more balanced meals into your routine. This dish serves as an incredible vehicle for utilizing fresh, seasonal ingredients while keeping your health goals in check.

Zucchini, a star player in this recipe, tends to be at its peak flavor and lowest cost during the summer and early fall months. When zucchini is fresh, it offers a wonderfully mild, slightly sweet flavor and a firm texture that stands up beautifully to the simmering process in the skillet. Using peak-season produce ensures you get the maximum nutritional benefit and the best possible taste outcome for your meal. If you happen to have a garden, or if you regularly shop at farmer’s markets, this recipe is a perfect way to use up that abundant harvest.

Furthermore, this recipe is an outstanding example of how to build complex flavor using simple pantry staples. The combination of savory turkey, bright canned tomatoes, and pungent aromatics like garlic and onion provides a deep, comforting foundation that feels much more sophisticated than a 30-minute meal should. The addition of red pepper flakes (optional, but highly recommended) adds just enough subtle heat to cut through the richness of the meat, elevating the entire experience.

For families, this dish is a winner because it’s inherently customizable and kid-friendly. Because the vegetables are diced and cooked down into the sauce, even picky eaters often consume them without complaint, especially when served over rice or pasta. You can also easily adjust the seasonings omitting the red pepper flakes for sensitive palates or adding extra parmesan for an irresistible cheesy layer.

If you have struggled with finding satisfying low-carb or gluten-free meals, this ground turkey vegetable recipe naturally fits those requirements. It provides the fullness of a complete meal protein, vegetables, and complex spices without relying on grains. It’s a smart choice for maintaining energy levels and avoiding that heavy, post-meal slump. Trying this recipe now means investing in a simpler, healthier, and more delicious way to manage your weeknight dinners, proving that healthy eating does not have to be difficult or boring. It truly is the ultimate solution for a fast and satisfying meal.

Ingredients and Essential Utensils for the Perfect Skillet Preparation

Achieving success with the Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet starts with high-quality ingredients and the right tools. Here is a detailed look at what you need and why each component is crucial for building the dish’s deep flavor profile.

The Essential Ingredients List

This recipe relies on a perfect balance of protein, fresh vegetables, and potent dried spices. Using precise measurements ensures the flavors meld correctly during the brief simmering period.

• 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil: Essential for browning the meat and starting the aromatic base. Choose a good quality extra virgin olive oil for better flavor.
• 1 Pound Lean Ground Turkey: We recommend 93% lean or higher. Leaner meat minimizes the amount of fat needing to be drained, keeping the dish lighter and healthier.
• 1 Medium Yellow Onion, finely diced: The foundational aromatic. Dicing finely ensures the onion softens and practically dissolves into the sauce, adding sweetness and depth.
• 2 Cloves Garlic, minced: Garlic provides the essential pungency and savory warmth. Always mince it fresh just before use for maximum impact.
• 2 Medium Zucchini, trimmed and diced into 1/2 inch pieces: The key vegetable. Keeping the pieces uniform ensures even cooking. Avoid over-dicing, as smaller pieces can become mushy.
• 1 (14.5 ounce) Can Diced Tomatoes, drained: Crucial for providing body and acidity. Tip: Draining the tomatoes is vital to prevent the skillet from becoming too watery.
• 1 Teaspoon Italian Seasoning: A powerful blend, typically containing oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary. This is the heart of the Mediterranean flavor profile.
• 1/2 Teaspoon Dried Basil: While Italian seasoning contains basil, a little extra dried basil enhances the sweet, slightly minty flavor that pairs beautifully with tomato and zucchini.
• 1/4 Teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional, for heat): Adds a delightful subtle warmth. If serving to children or those sensitive to spice, omit this ingredient.
• 1 Teaspoon Kosher Salt, plus more to taste: Salting in stages is key. We start with a full teaspoon to season the meat and vegetables properly.
• 1/2 Teaspoon Black Pepper, freshly ground: Freshly ground pepper offers a brighter, sharper flavor than pre-ground, significantly improving the overall taste.
• Fresh Parsley or Parmesan Cheese, for garnish (optional): Parsley adds a pop of freshness and color; Parmesan cheese adds a salty, umami finish.

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

When creating a simple recipe like the Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet, the quality of your primary ingredients makes a huge difference. For the ground turkey, selecting a lean cut (93/7 or 99/1) ensures a healthy turkey recipe that doesn’t feel greasy. If you are using 85/15 turkey, you absolutely must follow the step to drain the fat thoroughly.

Regarding the zucchini, look for firm, bright green vegetables free of blemishes. Zucchini should feel heavy for its size. If you cannot find zucchini, yellow summer squash works as an excellent substitution, although it may cook slightly faster. The diced tomatoes provide the necessary moisture and acidity; always opt for fire-roasted diced tomatoes if available, as they offer a smokier, richer flavor depth. To keep this whole process quick and easy, avoid using fresh tomatoes unless you are prepared to peel, seed, and stew them beforehand. The simplicity of using a drained can of tomatoes is part of what makes this dish a brilliant weeknight dinner solution.

To deepen the overall savory profile, consider where you buy your spices. Fresh spices (those purchased within the last six months) are infinitely more potent than old, dusty jars. A fresh jar of Italian seasoning will provide a much more robust flavor foundation for this delicious ground turkey vegetable recipe.

Necessary Kitchen Utensils for Success

This is a one-pan meal, but the quality of that one pan matters immensely. Using the correct tools guarantees even cooking and better flavor development.

• Large, Deep Skillet or Dutch Oven:

  This is the workhorse of the recipe. We recommend a 10 or 12-inch heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron or stainless steel) or a large Dutch oven. A heavy bottom ensures even heat distribution, which is crucial when browning the ground turkey. If the pan is too thin, the turkey might steam instead of brown, resulting in less flavorful meat.

• Wooden Spoon or Sturdy Spatula:

  You need a tool strong enough to break up the ground turkey as it cooks. A wooden spoon or a heat-resistant rubber spatula works perfectly. These are also ideal for scraping up the flavorful browned bits (fond) from the bottom of the pan once the onions are added.

• Sharp Knife and Cutting Board:

  Essential for finely dicing the onion and ensuring the zucchini is cut into uniform 1/2-inch pieces. Uniformity is the secret to getting that perfect, tender-crisp texture.

• Colander or Mesh Strainer:

  Needed both for draining the canned diced tomatoes and potentially for draining excess fat from the ground turkey if you used a fattier cut.

• Measuring Spoons and Cups:

  Accuracy in seasoning, particularly with salt and spices, is key to preventing an under-seasoned or overly salty dish.

• Tight-Fitting Lid:

  Crucial for Step 5. The lid traps steam and heat, allowing the zucchini to soften beautifully while the flavors marry together into a cohesive sauce. If your skillet doesn’t have a lid, foil can work in a pinch, but ensure it seals tightly.

For more great kitchen organization and easy dinner ideas, be sure to check out my collection of simple comfort food recipes, like this One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Your Flavorful Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet

Following these detailed instructions ensures maximum flavor development at every stage, turning simple ingredients into a deeply savory one-pan dinner.

#Step 1: Heat Oil and Brown the Turkey

Place a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. This higher temperature is crucial for the browning process. Add the olive oil and wait until it is visibly shimmering. This indicates the oil is hot enough to achieve the Maillard reaction the chemical process that creates rich, savory flavor compounds when meat browns.

Carefully add the ground turkey to the hot skillet. Do not stir immediately. Allow the meat to sit undisturbed for about 60 to 90 seconds to develop a delicious crust on the bottom. Then, use your wooden spoon or spatula to break up the meat into small, even pieces. Continue stirring and breaking up the meat occasionally, cooking until the turkey is fully browned. Ensure absolutely no pink remains, which usually takes between 6 to 8 minutes. Properly browning the turkey is the most important step for the final flavor of your Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet.

#Step 2: Drain Excess Fat (If Necessary)

If you used leaner ground turkey (93/7 or higher), this step might be minimal or unnecessary. However, if your turkey has released a large amount of liquid or fat, it must be drained. Excess liquid will prevent the aromatics from sautéing correctly and dilute the final sauce.

Carefully tilt the pan away from you and use a spoon to scoop out and discard any pooling liquid or fat. It is essential to leave about one tablespoon of fat behind. This residual fat is needed to properly soften and cook the vegetables in the next step, ensuring they don’t stick or burn to the bottom of the pan.

#Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Now that the turkey is browned, reduce the heat to medium. Add the finely diced yellow onion to the skillet. Cook the onion for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring often. The goal here is to soften the onion until it becomes translucent and slightly sweet. This low and slow cooking process prevents bitterness and helps the onion release its foundational flavor.

Next, push the turkey and onions slightly aside, or simply add the minced garlic and the red pepper flakes (if using) directly into the mixture. Cook for just 60 seconds more. Garlic burns very quickly, turning acrid and bitter. You only need a minute to wake up its flavor until it is fragrant. The heat from the pan will carry the pungent garlic aroma throughout the dish, setting the stage for the rest of the ingredients.

#Step 4: Add Zucchini and Seasoning

Increase the heat slightly back to medium. Now, incorporate the diced zucchini pieces. Stir them well with the turkey, onion, and garlic mixture. This brief exposure to heat helps the zucchini start to soften slightly before the simmering stage.

Next, pour in the drained diced tomatoes. Remember, draining the liquid is key. Sprinkle the mixture evenly with the measured spices: the Italian seasoning, dried basil, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Use your spatula to stir all of the ingredients thoroughly. Ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the turkey and vegetables, coating the mixture completely. Proper stirring now guarantees that every bite of the finished Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet will be equally flavorful.

#Step 5: Simmer and Tenderize

This is where the magic happens and the flavors meld into a cohesive sauce. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid and reduce the heat significantly to low. The mixture should maintain a gentle simmer, not a rapid boil.

Allow the skillet to simmer gently for 8 to 10 minutes. This period achieves several goals: it softens the zucchini to a tender-crisp texture, allows the dried spices to bloom in the moist heat, and gives the tomato base time to marry with the savory turkey and aromatics. Practical Tip: Check the zucchini at the 8-minute mark. If you prefer a firmer texture, stop cooking immediately. If you want it very soft, go the full 10 minutes.

#Step 6: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Remove the lid and give the Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet a final, thorough stir. Now is the crucial moment for tasting. Use a small spoon to sample the mixture. Add any additional salt or pepper as needed based on your personal preference. Sometimes, the saltiness of the canned tomatoes dictates how much more seasoning is required.

If you find that the mixture seems too watery after simmering (this sometimes happens if the zucchini was very large and released a lot of moisture), simply remove the lid and increase the heat slightly to medium-low. Allow the liquid to evaporate for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Serve the Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet immediately, garnishing with fresh parsley for brightness or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness. For another fast and flavorful weeknight option, consider serving it alongside this quick Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta.

Tips, Substitutions, and Delicious Variations for Your Easy Skillet Meal

One of the greatest attributes of the Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet is its versatility. Once you master the base recipe, you can easily adapt it to suit dietary restrictions, seasonal availability, or simply your family’s flavor preferences.

Protein Alternatives and Substitutions

While the recipe centers on lean ground turkey, you can easily swap the protein without altering the cooking time significantly:

• Ground Chicken: A fantastic lean alternative to turkey. Follow the exact same browning procedure in Step 1.
• Lean Ground Beef (90/10 or leaner): If you prefer a richer flavor, ground beef works well. Be sure to drain the excess fat thoroughly in Step 2, as beef releases more liquid than turkey.
• Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Replace the ground turkey with 1 pound of pre-cooked crumbled firm tofu, rehydrated soy crumbles, or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Cook the substitute first to give it some texture, then proceed with adding the onions and garlic.

Vegetable Variations

This is a brilliant recipe for clearing out your vegetable drawer. Feel free to substitute or add other quick-cooking vegetables:

• Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms (cremini or white button) add an earthy, savory depth. Add them along with the onions in Step 3 to allow them time to release their moisture.
• Bell Peppers: Diced red, yellow, or orange bell peppers add sweetness and color. Add them at the same time as the zucchini in Step 4.
• Spinach or Kale: For an extra nutritional boost, stir in two large handfuls of fresh spinach or de-stemmed kale right after the simmering step (Step 5). Cover the pan for 1-2 minutes until the greens wilt.
• Other Squash: Diced yellow summer squash or even finely diced butternut squash (which may require slightly longer simmering time) can replace the zucchini.

Flavor Profile Swaps (Spice Variations)

You can completely transform the flavor profile of this easy skillet meal by changing the spice blend:

• Southwestern Skillet: Substitute the Italian seasoning and basil with 2 teaspoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and 1/2 teaspoon of oregano. Add a can of drained black beans or corn during the simmering step. Serve with sour cream and cilantro.
• Mediterranean Delight: Add 1/4 cup of pitted Kalamata olives and 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese just before serving. Replace the basil with dried oregano and add a squeeze of lemon juice.
• Curry Skillet: Substitute the Italian seasoning with 1 tablespoon of mild curry powder and a dash of ginger powder. Add a tablespoon of tomato paste (mixed with a little water) to thicken the sauce slightly.

Tips to Avoid Common Mistakes

• Do Not Overcrowd the Pan: If you are doubling the recipe, use two separate skillets. Overcrowding the pan lowers the temperature, causing the turkey to steam rather than brown, resulting in less flavorful meat.
• Use Freshly Minced Garlic: Jarred garlic often has a slight preservative taste. Minced fresh garlic, cooked briefly until fragrant (but not burnt), is essential for the best taste in this ground turkey vegetable recipe.
• Don’t Skip Draining the Tomatoes: Unless you are specifically aiming for a soupier consistency, draining the canned tomatoes is non-negotiable. Excess liquid prevents the sauce from coating the turkey and vegetables properly.
• Always Taste and Adjust: Salt enhances all the other flavors. Always taste the dish in Step 6 and add a pinch of salt if it tastes flat. A splash of red wine vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten up the final flavor profile.

Need more inspiration for easy, healthy cooking? Be sure to check out my dedicated board for quick weeknight dinners on Pinterest: Quick & Healthy Dinner Ideas.

Nutritional Value and Health Benefits

The Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet is a shining example of how healthy eating can be incredibly satisfying. Its composition makes it ideal for a variety of diets, focusing on lean protein, low-calorie vegetables, and minimal simple carbohydrates.

Nutritional Breakdown (Approximate Per Serving)

While exact values depend on the leanness of the turkey and portion size, a typical serving of this dish (assuming 4 servings total) offers an excellent macronutrient balance:

• Calories: Approximately 280-350 kcal
• Protein: High (28-35 grams). Ground turkey is a powerhouse for muscle building and maintaining satiety.
• Fats: Low (8-12 grams), depending on the turkey used. Primarily healthy monounsaturated fats from the olive oil.
• Carbohydrates: Low (12-18 grams). Mostly complex carbs and fiber derived from the zucchini, tomatoes, and onions.
• Fiber: Good source (around 4-6 grams). Essential for digestive health.

This macro split makes the Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet an excellent choice for those managing blood sugar, following a ketogenic or low-carb lifestyle, or simply focusing on weight management.

Benefits of Key Ingredients

Each component contributes significantly to your overall well-being:

Lean Ground Turkey: Turkey is known as one of the best sources of lean protein. Protein is essential for repairing tissues, making enzymes and hormones, and promoting fullness, which helps curb overeating. Turkey is also rich in B vitamins (especially Niacin and B6) and selenium, vital for energy production and immune function.

Zucchini: As a summer squash, zucchini is incredibly nutrient-dense but low in calories. It is packed with antioxidants, including lutein and zeaxanthin, which are beneficial for eye health. Crucially, zucchini is a good source of Vitamin C and Vitamin K. Its high water content also aids in hydration and healthy digestion. When diced and cooked in this manner, it retains most of its structure and nutrients, adding bulk without adding unnecessary calories.

Tomatoes (Diced): Canned diced tomatoes are an excellent source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that has been linked to heart health and cancer prevention. Since lycopene is released more effectively when tomatoes are cooked in oil, this skillet meal preparation maximizes its bioavailability. Tomatoes also contribute Vitamin C and Vitamin A.

Garlic and Onions (Aromatics): Beyond adding incredible flavor, garlic and onions contain powerful sulfur compounds known for their anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. They are staples in the Mediterranean diet and contribute significantly to the healthiness of this quick zucchini dinner.

Incorporating this one-pan dinner into your routine means prioritizing efficient, healthy fuel. The robust flavors prove that eating well doesn’t require complex or heavy ingredients. For more nourishing, hearty meals that are still relatively light, check out my recipe for Turkey Taco Soup.

FAQs about the Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Healthy Turkey Recipe

The Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet embodies everything a successful weeknight meal should be: fast, flavorful, healthy, and incredibly easy on the cleanup crew. We have successfully blended the light, lean power of ground turkey with the fresh texture of zucchini, creating a balanced and deeply savory one-pan dinner that satisfies without the heaviness of traditional comfort food.

By focusing on proper browning techniques and utilizing robust Italian seasoning, we maximized the flavor potential of simple, accessible ingredients. This recipe proves that you don’t need exotic components or hours in the kitchen to deliver a truly memorable meal. Whether you served it over rice, pasta, or simply enjoyed it as a low-carb entree, the vibrant, seasoned mixture of turkey and vegetables provides complete nourishment.

We encourage you to make this easy skillet meal a regular part of your rotation. Experiment with the flavor variations, utilize those seasonal vegetables, and enjoy the extra time you gain back thanks to the single-pan method. Did you try adding different vegetables or spices? We’d love to hear how you customized your Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet. Share your experience and rating below!

Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet (One Pan)

A quick, healthy, and satisfying one-pan dinner featuring lean ground turkey and fresh zucchini simmered in diced tomatoes and savory Italian herbs. This meal is ideal for busy weeknights.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired

Calories: 380

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
• 1 Pound Lean Ground Turkey Use 93% lean or higher
• 1 Medium Yellow Onion finely diced
• 2 Cloves Garlic minced
• 2 Medium Zucchini trimmed and diced into 1/2 inch pieces
• 1 14.5 ounce Can Diced Tomatoes drained

Seasoning and Garnish

• 1 Teaspoon Italian Seasoning
• 1/2 Teaspoon Dried Basil
• 1/4 Teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes optional, for heat
• 1 Teaspoon Kosher Salt plus more to taste
• 1/2 Teaspoon Black Pepper freshly ground
• Fresh Parsley or Parmesan Cheese for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Large, Deep Skillet or Dutch Oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Method

 

Skillet Instructions

1. Place a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and allow it to heat until shimmering. Carefully add the ground turkey to the hot skillet. Break up the meat using a wooden spoon or spatula, stirring occasionally, and cook until the turkey is fully browned and no pink remains, approximately 6 to 8 minutes.
2. If your ground turkey released a significant amount of fat or liquid, carefully tilt the pan and use a spoon to scoop out and discard any excess liquid, leaving about one tablespoon of fat behind to cook the vegetables.
3. Add the diced yellow onion to the skillet with the browned turkey. Reduce the heat to medium and cook the onion for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring often, until the onion has softened and turned translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for just 60 seconds more, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Add the diced zucchini pieces to the skillet. Pour in the drained diced tomatoes. Sprinkle the mixture evenly with the Italian seasoning, dried basil, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir all of the ingredients well, ensuring the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the turkey and vegetables.
5. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 8 to 10 minutes. This simmering period allows the zucchini to soften slightly and the flavors to fully meld together. If you prefer your zucchini firmer, reduce the cooking time by a few minutes.
6. Remove the lid and give the skillet a final stir. Taste the mixture and add any additional salt or pepper as needed based on your preference. If the mixture seems too watery, you can remove the lid and increase the heat slightly to medium-low, allowing the liquid to evaporate for 2 to 3 minutes. Serve the Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet immediately, garnishing with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Notes

For a low-carb meal, serve as is or over cauliflower rice. If you prefer this dish saucier, do not fully drain the can of diced tomatoes before adding them to the skillet. To ensure the zucchini stays firm-tender, add it only halfway through the simmering process (Step 5).