Beef - Zucchini and Ground Beef

One thing that is important to me is to work towards a more natural, whole food diet. I want to cut out processed foods as much as I can which can be very challenging in our fast paced lives. 

I was searching the internet one night, trying my hardest to find healthy meals that didn't sound bland, when I came across the the Paleo Plan website. 

I had not heard of the Paleo Plan or Diet prior to this discovery and found myself intrigued and feeling a little sketchy about the meals. 

I took a risk though and just about everything I made was good. 

This recipe, Zucchini and Ground Beef, was great. It looks bland and boring, but it was good and filling. 

Here is the link to the recipe: http://www.paleoplan.com/2009/11-22/zucchini-and-ground-beef/

What I like about the Paleo Plan's recipes is that I don't end up with a ton of leftovers that will never be consumed because Rob doesn't really do leftovers. He might for one day after, but not really the second or third day. I eat leftovers but I can't eat the same thing for a week straight either. 

The Paleo Plan's recipes usually make enough for that meal or that meal and for lunch the next day. That's my style of cooking. 

Ingredients

• 3 Tbs coconut oil
• 1/2 yellow onion, diced
• 1-1/2 lbs lean ground beef
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 Tbs dried oregano
• 4 medium (6"-8") zucchini, diced
• 3 medium tomatoes, diced
• 1 tsp sea salt (optional)

Instructions

1. Wash and prepare vegetables.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.  Add coconut oil when hot.
3. Add onions to skillet and sauté until slightly translucent.
4. Quickly roll the ground beef into balls and add them to the pan next, along with the garlic and oregano. Cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add zucchini and tomatoes and cook until tender.
6. Season with sea salt if desired.

I would make this again but I think if I do, I'll probably add some red pepper flakes to make it more spicy. 

I liked the fact that the vegetables were very appetizing. 

The meatballs were a challenge though. I think I'll have to figure out a way for them to hold their shape because they just fell apart when I was cooking them. Suggestions anyone?