Healthy High Protein Zucchini Noodles With Turkey Meatballs
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Diet: low-carb, keto, or gluten-free
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean)
- 1/2 cup almond meal or breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (divided)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 4 large zucchini, spiralized
- 2 cups low-sugar marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini Noodles
Use a spiralizer to create zucchini noodles. Place the zoodles on a layer of paper towels and sprinkle lightly with salt. Let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then pat them dry. This prevents the dish from becoming watery. - Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, almond meal (or breadcrumbs), egg, Parmesan cheese, half of the minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to gently mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. - Step 3: Shape and Sear the Meatballs
Form the mixture into approximately 12-16 small meatballs. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides for about 6-8 minutes until golden and cooked through. - Step 4: Simmer with Sauce
Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the meatballs. Add the remaining garlic. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the meatballs to stay juicy. - Step 5: Sauté the Zoodles
In a separate large pan or in the same skillet (if large enough), add the zucchini noodles. Sauté them for only 2-3 minutes. You want them to be warm and slightly softened but still “al dente.” Overcooking will make them mushy. - Step 6: Combine and Serve
Plate the zucchini noodles and top them with a generous portion of meatballs and sauce. Garnish with fresh chopped basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.