Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner recipe? Look no further! This Ground Turkey Eggplant Skillet is a fantastic weeknight meal that's packed with protein and vegetables. It's easy enough for beginner cooks but satisfying enough to impress even seasoned chefs. This recipe showcases the best of homemade cooking, offering a delicious dish that's both budget-friendly and nutritious. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 large eggplant (about 1 pound), diced
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Eggplant
The key to a great eggplant dish is properly preparing the eggplant to remove excess moisture. Salt the diced eggplant generously and place it in a colander. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to drain. This step prevents the eggplant from releasing too much water during cooking, resulting in a drier and tastier final product.
Step 2: Sautéing the Aromatics
While the eggplant is draining, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Browning the Ground Turkey
Add the ground turkey to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. This step ensures the ground turkey is thoroughly cooked and develops a nice flavor.
Step 4: Simmering the Sauce
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the drained eggplant. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly. This slow simmering allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Serving and Enjoying
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. This hearty skillet dish is perfect on its own or served over pasta, rice, or quinoa.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For even more flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of tomato paste along with the garlic.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to this recipe, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Mediterranean Twist: Add crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and a squeeze of lemon juice at the end of cooking.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a diced jalapeño pepper along with the onion and garlic for extra heat.
- Hearty Meal: Serve over a bed of cooked pasta or rice for a more filling meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This Ground Turkey Eggplant Skillet is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas that are both delicious and good for you. It's a versatile recipe that can be easily customized to your liking, making it a perfect addition to your weekly meal plan. Enjoy!