Turkey Zucchini Poppers
Simple and yummy - that’s how to describe this fun recipe idea! Plus, don’t you just love the term “poppers”!?
The first time I tried this recipe it was served on a platter as an appetizer. The presentation was very appealing with a little dab of guacamole on top of each Popper. These also make a great main course - serve them on top of a bed of greens with roasted sweet potatoes on the side and dinner is served!
It is still zucchini season and now football has started . . . 😃, you just might need this appetizer on your menu for game day!
INGREDIENTS -
1 pound organic ground turkey (chicken would work also, but a little harder to find)
2 cups grated zucchini (leave peel on and drain or squeeze out liquid)
2-3 green onions
4 Tbsp cilantro, minced
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 tsp pepper
1 tsp sea salt
If you have ever made zucchini noodles, you will understand the importance of draining the liquid from the zucchini - it can get very soggy! Grate the zucchini onto a couple of paper towels, then let it rest while you chop the onions, cilantro, and garlic. Return to the zucchini with a couple more paper towels set over the top, and squeeze as much liquid out as possible. Otherwise, you will have very soggy poppers! 😳 Another option is to place the grated zucchini in a colander and let it rest to drain.
In a large bowl, combine all of the ingredients. Form the poppers into a ball approximately the size of a heaping tablespoon. Although it is sticky, this is best accomplished with your hands (you may want to use disposable gloves). There will be about 20-25 poppers. Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado, olive, or coconut oil to medium, then add as many poppers as will fit in your pan. Smash the top down just a bit to form your popper. Cook for 4-5 minutes each side. This may take a couple of rounds depending on the size of your pan. Set the cooked poppers onto a platter with paper towels to rest and drain while you continue cooking.
Then, whichever presentation you decide on - appetizer or main dish - enjoy!