Description
Summer Zucchini Bolognese is a lighter and healthier version of the traditional Italian meat sauce. This recipe uses lean ground turkey or beef combined with fresh zucchini, tomatoes, garlic, and herbs to create a rich, flavorful sauce. Served over your favorite pasta, it’s a perfect summertime dish that’s comforting yet fresh.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 lb lean ground turkey or ground beef
- 2 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Liquids and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Pasta and Garnishes
- 12 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- Fresh basil, for serving
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Brown the meat: Add the ground turkey or beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until fully browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add zucchini: Stir in the diced zucchini and continue to cook for 5 minutes until the zucchini is tender but still holds its shape.
- Add tomatoes and seasonings: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir in Italian seasoning, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer the sauce: Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
- Combine and serve: Toss the cooked pasta with the zucchini bolognese sauce. Plate the pasta and garnish generously with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Add chopped mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.
- Leftover sauce can be cooled and frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground meat with lentils or plant-based ground alternatives.
- Adjust seasoning by adding chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
