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If you're looking for a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional pasta dishes, Zesty Turkey Meatball Marinara on Zoodles is a perfect choice. This recipe marries the satisfying flavors of savory turkey meatballs with a rich marinara sauce, all served atop spiralized zucchini—better known as zoodles. Not only does this dish make for a delightful meal, but it also offers a plethora of health benefits that can easily fit into a low-carb or gluten-free diet.

Quick Turkey Meatball Marinara over Zoodles

Discover a tasty twist on a classic with Zesty Turkey Meatball Marinara on Zoodles. This nutritious recipe combines savory turkey meatballs and rich marinara sauce served on spiralized zucchini, offering a low-carb, gluten-free alternative to traditional pasta. Packed with protein and essential vitamins, it's perfect for anyone seeking a healthy yet satisfying meal. Enjoy customizing flavors and textures for a delightful dinner that pleases both your taste buds and dietary goals.
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Ingredients
  

For the Turkey Meatballs:

1 pound lean ground turkey

1/2 cup bread crumbs (preferably whole wheat)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1 clove garlic, minced

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

1 egg, lightly beaten

For the Marinara Sauce:

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

For the Zoodles:

2 large zucchini

Salt, to taste

Olive oil, for cooking

Instructions
 

Prepare the Meatballs:

    - In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, minced garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and the beaten egg. Mix until just combined.

      - Form the mixture into bite-sized meatballs (about 1-1.5 inches in diameter).

        Cook the Meatballs:

          - In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs, cooking in batches if necessary, until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Remove and set aside.

            Make the Marinara Sauce:

              - In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed and sauté the diced onion until translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

                - Pour in the crushed tomatoes, add oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, then bring to a simmer.

                  - Return the meatballs to the skillet and allow them to cook in the sauce for an additional 10-15 minutes over low heat, until cooked through.

                    Prepare the Zoodles:

                      - While the sauce is simmering, spiralize the zucchini to create zoodles (use a spiralizer or julienne peeler).

                        - In another skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the zoodles and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, until just tender. Season with a pinch of salt.

                          Serve:

                            - Plate the zoodles, top with the marinara sauce and meatballs. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and an optional sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese.

                              Enjoy!

                                - Serve immediately and savor the delightful mix of flavors!

                                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4