Slow Cooker Turkey Spaghetti over Zucchini Noodles: A Fun and Healthy Twist

Get ready for a delicious, healthy twist on a classic dish with this Slow Cooker Turkey Spaghetti over Zucchini Noodles. By swapping out traditional pasta for zucchini noodles, you significantly reduce carbs and calories while boosting fiber intake. This simple food hack can make a big difference in your fitness journey!

What You Need (Serves 6)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 1 fennel bulb, chopped
• 4 carrots, sliced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• ¼ cup chopped olives
• 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes
• 1 (14.5 oz) can tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• ½ cup dry red wine (Cabernet works well)
• 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon sweet paprika
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 6 zucchinis
• ¼ cup fresh Italian parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Sauté the Base: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic, onions, and fennel. Cook for 5 minutes until soft. Add carrots, cover, and cook for another 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
2. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly coat the inside of your slow cooker with olive oil. Add the cooked veggies, mushrooms, olives, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, wine, and seasonings. Mix well.
3. Add the Turkey: Place the ground turkey on top of the veggie mixture, breaking it into chunks. Lightly press the turkey into the sauce without breaking up the chunks.
4. Cook: Set your slow cooker on low heat and cook for 7 hours.
5. Make Zucchini Noodles: Wash the zucchinis and use a vegetable peeler to create long, flat noodles, stopping when you reach the seedy middle part of the zucchini.
6. Serve: Plate the zucchini noodles and top with warm turkey spaghetti sauce. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh finish.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 276
• Fat: 8g
• Sodium: 383mg
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 21g

Enjoy this fun and nutritious meal that turns a classic favorite into a fitness-friendly dish. It’s a delicious way to stay on track with your health goals!