Food For The Fresh: Turkey & Veg Meatloaf w/ Balsamic Glaze

Pictures of meatloaf can never do it justice. I've been pouring over my pics, and well, they're not very attractive. And let's be honest, a "meat loaf" in no way sounds appetizing. But, trust me, this was moist, flavorful, and delicious "comfort" food -- the LAST thing I would think was that this dish was packed full of lean protein and veggies -- but it is! You've to give this recipe a try; I was absolutely shocked how MUCH I loved it!!

I served this with my Pureed Cauliflower, and it was the perfect healthy comfort food complement. That post is coming up next, so check back if that suits your fancy!

** TURKEY & VEG MEATLOAF w/ BALSAMIC GLAZE**
Ingredients
Loaf
* 2-3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
* 1 yellow onion
* 2 bell peppers, finely diced (red, yellow, or orange)
* 1 small zucchini, finely diced
* 5 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
* 1/2 tablespoon dried oregano
* 2 large eggs
* 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
* 1 cup Panko bread crumbs
* 1 1/2 lbs. ground turkey
* 1/2 cup ketchup
* 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

Glaze
* 1/2 cup ketchup
* 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar

Directions
* Preheat the oven to 400F.
* In a large saute pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
* Add the next 6 ingredients (onion, bell peppers, zucchini, garlic, red pepper flakes, and dried oregano).
* Season with salt and pepper.
* Saute until soft; about 5 minutes.

* In a large bowl, whisk the eggs. Stir in the parsley.
* Add the next four ingredients (Panko bread crumbs, ground turkey, ketchup, and balsamic) to the egg mixture, and combine well.

* Form into loaf.
** Note: I put mine on foil, but I should have lined then sheet tray with parchment paper -- this way the glaze won't stick, and the pieces will come off the tray more easily.