Quinoa Ground Turkey Skillet is a wholesome, one-pan meal that combines lean ground turkey, nutty quinoa, and a medley of colorful vegetables, all simmered together in a savory sauce. This dish is not only nutritious but also incredibly satisfying, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or meal prep. With its delightful textures and robust flavors, this skillet meal is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Quinoa Ground Turkey Skillet is the epitome of comfort food that fits perfectly into a healthy lifestyle. Packed with protein from the turkey and fiber from the quinoa, it keeps you full and energized throughout the day. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to whip up in just one skillet, which means less cleanup for you! The combination of spices and the addition of fresh vegetables ensure every bite is bursting with flavor, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Tips and Tricks
To make your cooking experience even smoother, consider these tips:
- Pre-cook your quinoa: If you have leftover quinoa, toss it in to save time.
- Season as you go: Taste and adjust the seasoning during cooking for the best flavor.
- Add vegetables based on what you have: Bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach work well, so feel free to adapt based on what’s in your fridge.
- Use a non-stick skillet: This will help prevent any sticking and make for easier cleanup.
Make Ahead Tips
This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can:
- Cook the quinoa in advance: It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Brown the turkey ahead of time: Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days before adding it to the skillet.
- Chop your vegetables: Prepare them the night before to save time when you’re ready to cook.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to customize this skillet dish:
- Swap the protein: Use ground chicken, beef, or even a plant-based crumble for a vegetarian option.
- Change up the grains: Swap quinoa for brown rice or farro for a different texture.
- Add spices: Try adding chili powder for a kick or Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile.
How to Serve
Serve your Quinoa Ground Turkey Skillet hot from the pan, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with a crisp side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Consider placing a wedge of lime or lemon on the side for a zesty finish that brightens the flavors.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement your dish, consider serving it with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager. A side of roasted asparagus or a simple mixed greens salad with vinaigrette pairs beautifully. For dessert, a light fruit sorbet can cleanse the palate after this hearty meal.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave until heated through, or warm on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent drying out.
Equipment Needed
You’ll need a large skillet for this recipe. A non-stick skillet is ideal to prevent sticking, but a cast-iron skillet can also work well. If you don’t have a skillet, you can use a large saucepan. A lid for the skillet will help with steaming the quinoa.
Dietary Adaptations
To adapt this recipe for various dietary needs:
- Vegan: Replace ground turkey with lentils and use vegetable broth.
- Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but ensure all packaged ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- Nut-free: This recipe is already nut-free, making it a safe choice for those with nut allergies.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, add in fresh corn and diced tomatoes to give the dish a seasonal twist. In the fall, consider adding in butternut squash or sweet potatoes for a heartier feel. Using seasonal vegetables not only enhances the flavor but also makes the dish more vibrant.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use pre-cooked quinoa? Yes, just add it in towards the end to warm through.
- How long does it take to cook quinoa? Typically, it takes about 15 minutes; ensure you rinse it first to remove any bitterness.
- Can I double the recipe? Absolutely! Just ensure you have a skillet large enough to accommodate all the ingredients.
Quinoa Ground Turkey Skillet
Quinoa Ground Turkey Skillet is a wholesome, one-pan meal that combines lean ground turkey, nutty quinoa, and a medley of colorful vegetables, all simmered together in a savory sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and drizzle with olive oil.
- Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent.
- Add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned.
- Stir in the bell pepper and zucchini, cooking until slightly softened.
- Add the rinsed quinoa, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Cover and reduce the heat to low, cooking for about 15-20 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy.
- Remove from heat and let sit for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 363Total Fat 18gSaturated Fat 4gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 12gCholesterol 120mgSodium 646mgCarbohydrates 16gFiber 3gSugar 3gProtein 35g
Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This Quinoa Ground Turkey Skillet is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of nutritious ingredients coming together in a delicious way. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is versatile, easy, and packed with flavor. Enjoy exploring different variations as you make it your own! Happy cooking!
