I’m trying to watch my carbs, but not give up flavor. I was inspired by my mom’s amazing stuffed zucchini, but wanted something a little easier for my Monday night meal. Overall, this was a huge win! You only need a cutting board, knife, spatula or wooden spoon, and a big pot or pan. I love garlic and onions, and I will always err on the side of adding more rather than less. If you don’t love garlic, you are obviously a vampire, but you can cut back or omit it altogether.
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef (I used ground chuck)
1/2 sweet onion, chopped
2 – 4 cloves of garlic, minced
2 large zucchini, sliced or in bite-sized pieces
10 – 15 grape tomatoes, halved
1 small can of plain tomato sauce (the type you buy with the canned tomatoes)
White wine
Kosher salt
Crushed red pepper (optional)
Directions:
Heat a large based pot or high-sided saute pan (something appropriate for stew) to medium. Start to brown the ground beef, Once a bit of the fat has rendered, add onion and salt to taste (I never measure salt), stirring occasionally. Once the onions are nearly clear, add the garlic and stir more regularly. Remember: garlic burns really easily, and burnt garlic is gross.
Once the onions are clear and the garlic is soft, add the zucchini. I wanted my zucchini to have some texture, so I used thicker pieces. If you like it really soft, add the zucchini before the garlic or make your slices thin. Give the zucchini a quick toss and add the tomatoes. Again, I wanted my tomatoes to have some texture. If you are a salt-aholic like me, this is a good time to add some more. Also, if you want the dish to have a bit of heat, this is when you should add some red pepper.
Poor in the can of tomato sauce. Fill the can about halfway with white wine (I just used boxed chardonnay) and that to the pot. If you don’t drink / keep wine, use broth or even a bit of water. Give it a good stir, and let it simmer uncovered for 15 minutes or so, stirring occasionally. Check the seasoning (i.e. salt and pepper) and make sure the alcohol has burned off.
It will be a little saucy, but not quite a soup. I served mine in a bowl with a spoon. I did not add any garnish, but cheese or fresh basil would be nice.
Makes 2 – 4 servings depending on your hunger level and whether you have a side salad.
Mmmmm…