Make tacos without taco shells! Using zucchinis and ground turkey is much better for you and you still get all of the taste of yummy tacos.
4 medium zucchinis, cut in half lengthwise
1/2 c. mild salsa, divided
1 lb. lean ground turkey or ground beef
1 t. garlic powder
1 t. cumin
1 t. kosher salt
1/2 t. pepper
1 t. chili powder
1 t. smoked paprika
1/2 t. oregano
1/2 small onion, minced
2 T. red or green bell pepper, minced
4 oz. can tomato sauce
1/4 c. water
1/2 c. reduced fat Mexican blend or Cheddar shredded cheese
1/4 c. chopped green onions , for garnish
Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Bring a large pot of well salted water to boil.
Place 1/4 c. salsa in the bottom of a large, greased baking dish.
Using a small spoon or scoop, hollow out the centers of the zucchini halves, leaving a 1/4 inch thick shell on each half. Chop the scooped out flesh of the zucchini into small pieces; reserve 3/4 c. to add to the taco filling, squeezing out excess water with a paper towel, discarding the rest or save to use in another recipe. Drop zucchini halves in boiling water; cook 1 minute. Remove from water; set aside.
Brown ground meat in a large skillet, breaking up while it cooks. When no longer pink, discard fat; add seasonings; mix well. Add onion, bell pepper, reserved zucchini, tomato sauce and water. Stir and cover; simmer about 20 minutes.
Using a spoon or scoop, fill the hollowed out zucchini boats dividing the taco meat equally, about 1/3 c. in each, pressing down firmly. Top each with 1 T. shredded cheese.
Cover with aluminum foil; bake 35 minutes or until cheese is melted and zucchini is cooked through.
Top with green onions. Serve with salsa on the side.
Makes 8 halves.
PT0M