Ground Turkey Zucchini Boats

Low-Carb, High-Protein Ground Turkey Zucchini Boats

4.6

(13)

10 Reviews

Summer-fresh zucchini brims with a zesty mix of peppers, ground turkey and spices in these ground turkey zucchini boats. Nothing goes to waste here, as the flesh from the zucchini gets chopped and mixed with the filling. To ensure they cook evenly, use zucchini that are similar in size.

Julia Levy

Updated on September 18, 2023

Reviewed by Dietitian

Emily Lachtrupp, M.S., RD

Tested by

EatingWell Test Kitchen

a recipe photo of the Low-Carb, High-Protein Ground Turkey Zucchini Boats — Photo: Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle

Active Time:

25 mins

Total Time:

45 mins

Servings:

Nutrition Profile:

Low-Carb Nut-Free Soy-Free High-Protein Egg-Free Gluten-Free

Jump to Nutrition Facts

Cook Mode (Keep screen awake)

Ingredients

4 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise
1 tablespoon canola oil
12 ounces lean ground turkey
1 ¼ cups thinly sliced bell peppers
1 tablespoon finely chopped garlic
1 tablespoon ancho chile powder
2 teaspoons ground cumin
¾ teaspoon salt, divided
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon tomato paste
¼ cup water
¾ cup shredded pepper Jack cheese
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro

Directions

Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange zucchini halves cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Bake until just tender, about 15 minutes. Let stand until cool enough to handle, about 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add turkey and peppers; cook, stirring often, until the turkey is browned and the peppers are mostly tender, 5 to 6 minutes. Stir in garlic, ancho, cumin, 1/2 teaspoon salt, oregano and smoked paprika; cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add tomato paste; cook, stirring constantly, until the turkey and vegetables are coated, about 1 minute. Stir in water; cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 1 minute. Remove from heat.
Carefully scoop out the center from each cooled zucchini half, leaving a 1/2-inch-thick shell. Chop the scooped-out zucchini flesh; stir into the turkey mixture. Arrange the zucchini halves cut-side up on the baking sheet. Sprinkle evenly with the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt.
Stuff about 1/3 cup turkey mixture into each zucchini half. Sprinkle evenly with cheese (about 1 1/2 tablespoons each). Bake until heated through and the cheese is melted, about 8 minutes. Sprinkle with cilantro before serving.

Equipment

Parchment paper

Frequently Asked Questions

Is zucchini healthy?

Zucchini is loaded with nutrients, including vitamin C, potassium, magnesium and folate. It's also high in antioxidants, specifically the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin. Carotenoids have been shown to be powerful antioxidants that help protect the skin, eyes, bones and heart.
Can I use summer squash in this recipe instead?

Yes, you can! Summer squash, also known as yellow squash, is a great substitute for zucchini. When shopping for summer squash, make sure they're firm to the touch.
What is ancho chile powder and what’s a good substitute?

Ancho chile powder is a spice made from ancho chiles, which are dried poblano peppers. If you can't find ancho chile powder, you can substitute it with chipotle chile powder.
Can I use regular paprika instead of smoked paprika?

Yes, you can use regular paprika instead of smoked paprika, but it will give the dish a different flavor profile. Smoked paprika has an earthy, smoky flavor, while regular paprika is mild and sweet.
Can you freeze uncooked Zucchini Boats? What about cooked Zucchini Boats?

No, we don't recommend freezing uncooked or cooked zucchini boats because they will be soggy after defrosting due to their high water content. Freezing zucchini works best when you'll be using it for fritters, casseroles and quick breads.
How do I reheat leftover Zucchini Boats?

You can reheat leftover zucchini boats in a 350°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes or in a microwave on High until heated through.

Additional reporting by Carrie Myers and Jan Valdez

Originally appeared: EatingWell.com, June 2023

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

304	Calories
19g	Fat
12g	Carbs
25g	Protein

Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe 4
Serving Size 2 zucchini halves
Calories 304
% Daily Value *
Total Carbohydrate 12g	4%
Dietary Fiber 4g	14%
Total Sugars 6g
Protein 25g	50%
Total Fat 19g	24%
Saturated Fat 6g	30%
Cholesterol 82mg	27%
Vitamin A 1706IU	34%
Vitamin C 92mg	102%
Vitamin D 12IU	3%
Vitamin E 2mg	13%
Folate 67mcg	17%
Vitamin K 18mcg	15%
Sodium 731mg	32%
Calcium 228mg	18%
Iron 3mg	17%
Magnesium 65mg	15%
Potassium 905mg	19%
Zinc 3mg	27%
Vitamin B12 1mcg	42%
Omega 3 1g

Nutrition information is calculated by a registered dietitian using an ingredient database but should be considered an estimate.

* Daily Values (DVs) are the recommended amounts of nutrients to consume each day. Percent Daily Value (%DV) found on nutrition labels tells you how much a serving of a particular food or recipe contributes to each of those total recommended amounts. Per the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the daily value is based on a standard 2,000 calorie diet. Depending on your calorie needs or if you have a health condition, you may need more or less of particular nutrients. (For example, it’s recommended that people following a heart-healthy diet eat less sodium on a daily basis compared to those following a standard diet.)

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a special diet for medical reasons, be sure to consult with your primary care provider or a registered dietitian to better understand your personal nutrition needs.