Cheesy Turkey and Veggie Stuffed Zucchini Boats

• 4 medium zucchinis
• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 small carrot, finely grated
• 1/2 cup bell pepper, finely diced (any color)
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut each zucchini in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, carefully scoop out the seeds and some flesh to create a hollow boat about 1/4 inch thick. Set aside the scooped zucchini flesh.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic; sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.
4. Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
5. Add the grated carrot, diced bell pepper, reserved zucchini flesh (chopped finely), dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook another 4 minutes until veggies soften.
6. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the marinara sauce and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Arrange the zucchini boats on a baking sheet. Spoon the turkey and veggie mixture evenly into each zucchini boat. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Remove from oven, garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Chef tips

• Use a spoon or a small melon baller to hollow out zucchini boats for more control and even thickness.
• If zucchini is watery, sprinkle the hollowed boats with a little salt and let sit 10 minutes before filling, then pat dry to avoid sogginess.
• Substitute ground chicken or lean ground beef for ground turkey for a different flavor.
• For dairy-free option, use vegan cheese or omit cheese and add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.