Description
A versatile ground turkey dish that can be used for everything from tacos to pasta. Lean, flavorful, and easy to prepare, this recipe is a lighter yet satisfying option for any meal.
Ingredients
For the Ground Turkey Recipe:
- 1 lb ground turkey (preferably lean, 93% lean or higher)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup zucchini, diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes, chopped)
- ½ cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon lime juice (optional for added zest)
Instructions
Start by preparing all of your vegetables and seasonings. Dice the onion, bell pepper, and zucchini into small, uniform pieces. Mince the garlic and measure out the spices: cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Having everything ready to go makes the cooking process quicker and more efficient.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground turkey to the pan. Use a wooden spoon to break up the turkey as it cooks, making sure it browns evenly. Cook the turkey for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it is fully cooked through and no longer pink.
Once the turkey is cooked, add the chopped onion, garlic, bell pepper, and zucchini to the skillet. Stir everything together and let the vegetables cook for about 5 minutes, or until they soften slightly. The vegetables will release moisture, and the turkey will absorb some of their flavors.
Add the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to evenly coat the turkey and vegetables with the spices. Let the mixture cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to become fragrant.
Next, add the diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for about 2 minutes to let the flavors combine.
Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld together. This will give the dish a delicious, savory depth.
Once the mixture has simmered and the flavors are well combined, remove the skillet from the heat. If desired, stir in fresh cilantro for an added burst of flavor and color. A squeeze of lime juice will add a refreshing zest to the dish, balancing the savory flavors.
Serve the ground turkey mixture over rice, quinoa, or in lettuce wraps. You can also top it with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado slices. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 300-350 kcal
- Fat: 12-15g
- Carbohydrates: 10-12g
- Protein: 30g