Are you craving a delicious and healthy meal that's also incredibly easy to prepare? Look no further! This Beef Mince and Zucchini recipe is a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner. It's packed with flavor, requires minimal ingredients, and is ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you're looking for a simple yet satisfying homemade meal. This recipe is a testament to how easy and delicious healthy food can be. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 medium zucchini, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the flavor base of your dish.
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Brown the beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. Using lean ground beef helps keep this a healthy meal option.
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Add the zucchini and seasonings: Stir in the chopped zucchini, diced tomatoes (undrained), oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
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Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot. This delicious and easy dish is perfect on its own or served with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Cooking Tips for the Best Beef Mince and Zucchini:
- Don't overcook the zucchini: Overcooked zucchini can become mushy. Aim for tender-crisp zucchini.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of herbs and spices to your preference. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick!
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots for extra flavor and nutrients. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve this dish with a side of quinoa, brown rice, or a simple green salad to create a more balanced and satisfying meal.
Variations:
- Spicy Beef and Zucchini: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Beef and Zucchini with Cheese: Sprinkle some shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese over the dish during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Slow Cooker Version: For an even easier meal, transfer the ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This simple Beef Mince and Zucchini recipe is a fantastic example of quick and easy dinner ideas that are also healthy and delicious. Enjoy this tasty and nutritious meal! It's a perfect addition to your collection of best recipes and easy recipes for busy weeknights. The homemade cooking experience will leave you feeling satisfied and energized.