Meal Prep Bolognese with Zucchini and Artichokes
Try this Meal Prep Bolognese with Zucchini and Artichokes recipe.
Try this Meal Prep Bolognese with Zucchini and Artichokes recipe.
- 1 bay leaf
- salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup white onion diced
- 1 lb. extra lean ground turkey breast (any ground meat w
- 3 large zucchini spiralized
- 3 tbsp minced garlic
- 2/3 cup artichoke in water drained & quartered
- 1 28 ounce jar diced tomatoes
- 1 6 ounce jar tomato paste
- 1/4 cup dry red wine (i used chianti)*
- 1 1/2 tbsp italian seasoning
- Carbohydrate 5.37678315236255 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 1.82841359748328 g
- Fiber 0.780181862836187 g
- Protein 0.813256306937576 g
- Saturated Fat 0.302390772932685 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (143g)
- Sodium 41.2110198069357 mg
- Sugar 4.59660128952636 g
- Trans Fat 0.0869001538984225 g
- Calories 38 calories
Step-by-step
- Heat a large skillet to medium heat.
- Add extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic and onion.
- Stir them together and sauté 2-3 minutes until the onions are tender.
- Add the ground turkey breast.
- Using a spatula, break up the meat as it cooks.
- Once it starts to brown, add the red wine.
- Stir and scrape any bits off the bottom of the pan.
- Add salt, pepper, bay leaf, Italian seasoning, diced tomatoes and tomato paste.
- Stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil then immediately reduce to a simmer and cover for 10 minutes.
- Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the artichokes and remove the bay leaf.
- Portion the zucchini noodles into 4 meal prep containers and top with the meat sauce.
My Simple, Healthy Bolognese: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy, delicious meals can feel like an impossible task. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and keeping the house running, the last thing I want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That's why meal prepping has become my absolute lifesaver. This recipe for Meal Prep Bolognese with Zucchini and Artichokes is a perfect example of how I manage to eat well without sacrificing my precious time. It's quick, easy, and most importantly, incredibly flavorful.
The beauty of this Bolognese is its versatility. I love using zucchini noodles instead of traditional pasta, making it a lighter, lower-carb option. But feel free to substitute with your preferred pasta shape if you like. I also add artichoke hearts for an extra burst of flavor and texture. The ground turkey keeps the calories in check while still delivering a satisfying protein punch. This Bolognese is also easily adaptable to your dietary needs. If you're not following a Paleo or low-calorie diet, feel free to experiment with different ground meats or add other vegetables you enjoy.
One of the best things about this meal prep recipe is how well it holds up. I typically prepare a large batch on a Sunday evening, portioning it into individual containers for quick and easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. This means no more stressful evening scrambles to figure out what’s for dinner. It’s all ready and waiting in the fridge, just waiting to be heated up.
This recipe isn't just about convenience; it’s about healthy eating, too. I focus on using fresh, whole ingredients whenever possible. The vibrant colors of the tomatoes, the earthy notes of the artichokes, and the savory aroma of the turkey combine to create a truly delightful culinary experience. And the best part? It’s so easy to customize to your taste. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra richness (if you're not following a strict Paleo plan), or a dash of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Beyond the practical benefits, this recipe also provides a sense of accomplishment. Knowing I’ve prepared delicious and nutritious meals ahead of time helps to reduce stress and frees up valuable time for other activities I enjoy. It allows me to dedicate my evenings to spending quality time with my family instead of stressing over dinner. I find this sense of control and preparedness incredibly empowering, especially during the hectic moments of daily life. It’s a small act of self-care that makes a big difference in my overall well-being.
The simple act of preparing a delicious and healthy meal for myself and my family is a form of self-love. It shows that I value my time, my health, and the well-being of those I love. This Bolognese is more than just a recipe; it's a symbol of balance and intentional living. It's a reminder that even in the midst of a busy schedule, it's possible to enjoy a nutritious and flavorful meal without compromising on quality or time. And that, for me, is priceless.
Ingredients I Use and Why:
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: The foundation of flavor, I always reach for high-quality olive oil for its health benefits and taste.
Ground Turkey Breast: Lean and healthy, providing a good source of protein without excessive fat.
Zucchini Noodles: A low-carb alternative to pasta that adds freshness and vibrant color.
Artichokes: These add a wonderful, unique texture and a slightly tangy flavor to the Bolognese.
Diced Tomatoes and Tomato Paste: The essential building blocks of a great Bolognese sauce. I prefer using good quality canned tomatoes for convenience and consistent results.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that provides a balanced and aromatic flavor profile.
Tips and Variations:
Storage: Store prepared Bolognese in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: This dish freezes well! Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots.
Cheese Please: For a non-paleo variation, add some grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
