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Turkey Meatballs with Zucchini Noodles

A quick, hearty, and light dinner that pairs tender turkey meatballs with fresh zucchini noodles for a satisfying meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Healthy
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Meatball Mixture
  • 1 pound ground turkey, preferably 93 percent lean
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/3 cup breadcrumbs or almond meal for gluten-free
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast for dairy-free
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1-2 tablespoons olive oil for cooking
Zucchini Noodles and Sauce
  • 3 medium zucchini, spiralized into noodles
  • 2 cups marinara sauce, your favorite jar or homemade
Optional Garnishes
  • to taste red pepper flakes for added spice
  • to taste extra Parmesan
  • to taste fresh basil

Method
 

Preparation of Meatballs
  1. In a bowl, combine turkey, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  2. Lightly oil your hands and roll the mixture into balls about the size of a golf ball. Aim for 16 to 20 meatballs.
Cooking the Meatballs
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown them on one side before turning. Turn gently until most sides are golden.
  2. Pour in the marinara sauce, lower the heat, and cover. Simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Preparing Zucchini Noodles
  1. While the meatballs are simmering, spiralize the zucchini.
  2. In a separate pan, toss the zucchini noodles with a teaspoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt for 1 to 2 minutes, until slightly wilted.
Serving
  1. Divide zucchini noodles into bowls, spoon over meatballs and sauce, and sprinkle with basil and extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

For best results, mix meat gently, ensure even cooking of meatballs, and freeze extras for meal prep.