Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious dinner recipe that's also packed with protein? Look no further! This ground turkey and quinoa recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It's easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is incredibly versatile – you can easily customize it to your liking. This recipe offers a fantastic blend of flavors and textures, making it a winner for both beginners in the kitchen and experienced home cooks seeking a simple, satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional toppings: fresh cilantro, avocado, Greek yogurt
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Quinoa
Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove any saponins. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Turkey and Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 3: Add Flavor
Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Stir in the cooked quinoa and gently mix everything together. Heat through for a couple of minutes. Serve hot, topped with your favorite additions like fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
Cooking Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier kick. Experiment with different spice blends to create unique flavor profiles.
- Add more veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms. The possibilities are endless!
- Make it cheesy: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese over the top before serving.
- Meal prep friendly: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Simply store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of lean protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates. The exact nutritional information will vary depending on the ingredients used and serving size. However, a general estimate per serving is around 350-400 calories, 30-40g protein, and 30-40g carbohydrates. This makes it a satisfying and nutritious option for a healthy diet.
This ground turkey and quinoa recipe is a simple yet incredibly flavorful and satisfying meal. It's a great example of how easy it is to create delicious and healthy food recipes at home without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy this quick dinner idea and discover the many ways you can customize it to suit your taste preferences. Happy cooking!