Introduction
Turkey meatballs with zucchini in tomato sauce are a healthy, tasty, and family-friendly dish. The zucchini makes the meatballs soft and juicy, while the tomato sauce adds a rich homemade flavor. This recipe is perfect for kids because the vegetables are hidden inside the meatballs, so even picky eaters will enjoy it.
Compared to heavy beef meatballs, this version is lighter, easier to digest, and lower in fat. The tomato sauce is made with simple ingredients like onions, garlic, and tomatoes, giving the dish a fresh and comforting taste. You can keep the sauce chunky or blend it smooth, depending on what you like.
These turkey meatballs with zucchini in tomato sauce can be served in many ways – with pasta, rice, or bread. They are easy to prepare, healthy, and great for quick family dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy and light – made with lean turkey and zucchini.
- Kid-friendly – vegetables are hidden inside the meatballs.
- Easy to cook – simple steps with common ingredients.
- Versatile dish – serve with pasta, rice, or bread.
- Rich tomato sauce – fresh, homemade, and full of flavor.
Turkey Meatballs with Zucchini in Tomato Sauce – Easy and Healthy Recipe
Juicy turkey meatballs with zucchini in rich tomato sauce – a healthy, easy, and kid-friendly dinner recipe.
Ingredients
- For the Meatballs:
500 g ground turkey
1 medium zucchini, grated
1 egg
2 tbsp oat flour (or regular flour)
1 tsp lemon or lime zest
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
Salt and pepper, to taste - For the Tomato Sauce:
2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
1 garlic clove, grated
2 bay leaves
1 tbsp tomato paste
4 fresh tomatoes, peeled and deseeded (or canned tomatoes)
1 cup vegetable stock
Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- 1. Prepare the Meatballs
Step1: In a large bowl, mix ground turkey, grated zucchini, egg, oat flour, lemon zest, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Step2:Shape the mixture into small balls using your hands or a scoop.
Step3: Heat olive oil in a pan and fry the meatballs until golden on the outside. Remove and set aside. - 2. Make the Tomato Sauce
Step1: In the same pan, heat olive oil and cook onions slowly until soft and clear.
Step2: Add grated garlic and bay leaves, cook for 1 minute.
Step3: Stir in tomato paste and cook for a few seconds.
Step4: Add tomatoes and pour in vegetable stock. Let it simmer until tomatoes break down into a thick sauce.* - 3. Cook the Meatballs in the Sauce
Step 1: Place the seared meatballs into the sauce.
Step 2: Cover the pan with a lid and let them cook gently until fully done.
Step 3: Leave the sauce chunky or blend it smooth, depending on your choice.
Recipe Video
Serving Ideas
Serve with pasta for a classic dinner.
Pair with steamed rice for a wholesome meal.
Enjoy with bread rolls to soak up the sauce.
Use inside a meatball sandwich with cheese.*
Notes & Tips
- For creamy sauce, stir in 2 tbsp cream at the end.
- You can use chicken or beef instead of turkey.
- Do not skip zucchini – it keeps the meatballs juicy.
- Add chili flakes or paprika for a spicy touch.
Health Benefits
- Turkey – lean protein, low in fat, helps build muscles.
- Zucchini – high in fiber and vitamins, supports digestion.
- Tomatoes – rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Olive oil – heart-healthy good fats.
Final Thoughts
This turkey meatballs with zucchini in tomato sauce recipe is healthy, easy, and full of flavor. The meatballs are soft and moist, the sauce is rich, and together they make a comforting family meal. Serve it with pasta, rice, or bread, and enjoy a dish that is both tasty and nutritious. Once you try it, it will surely become a favorite in your kitchen.
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