Imagine a meal that comes together in just 30 minutes, packed with lean protein, vibrant vegetables, and a burst of herbal pesto flavor that will have your entire family begging for seconds! This Pesto Zucchini Turkey Skillet is not just another boring dinner - it's a quick, nutritious, and incredibly delicious one-pan wonder that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary culinary experience. Whether you're a busy professional, a health-conscious foodie, or just someone who loves a hassle-free meal, this recipe is about to become your new go-to dinner solution.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 cup pesto sauce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, ensuring the pan is evenly coated.
- Add ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook the turkey until it's completely browned and no pink remains, approximately 6-8 minutes.
- Season the turkey with salt and pepper, stirring to distribute the seasoning evenly throughout the meat.
- Add sliced zucchini to the skillet, cooking for 3-4 minutes until the zucchini begins to soften but remains slightly crisp.
- Reduce heat to medium and pour the pesto sauce over the turkey and zucchini, stirring to coat all ingredients thoroughly.
- Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm them through without breaking them down completely.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Remove from heat and let the skillet rest for 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot directly from the skillet, ensuring each portion has a mix of turkey, zucchini, and tomatoes.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pan: Use a large, heavy-bottomed skillet to ensure even heat distribution and perfect browning of the turkey.
- Don't Overcrowd: Cook the turkey in batches if necessary to ensure it browns nicely instead of steaming.
- Zucchini Texture Matters: Cut zucchini into uniform slices and don't overcook - you want them tender-crisp, not mushy.
- Pesto Power: Use high-quality store-bought or homemade pesto for the most intense flavor. If the sauce seems thick, you can thin it with a little olive oil or pasta water.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh cherry tomatoes and add them last to maintain their bright flavor and prevent them from becoming too soft.
- Seasoning Tip: Taste and adjust seasonings at the end. Sometimes a little extra salt or fresh cracked pepper can elevate the entire dish.
- Make It Your Own: Feel free to add additional vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or sprinkle some fresh parmesan cheese on top before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 425kcal
Carbohydrates: 7g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 33g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 60mg
