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No-Guilt Pasta with Spinach & Ground Turkey | Skillit Cooking: Simple, Easy Recipes
If you’re looking for a delicious, satisfying pasta dish that won’t derail your healthy eating goals, look no further than this No-Guilt Pasta with Spinach and Ground Turkey. Bursting with flavors and packed with protein and greens, this easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, ensuring you can indulge without compromise.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Nutrient-Packed: This dish combines lean ground turkey with fresh spinach, providing a fantastic source of vitamins, minerals, and protein. You’ll find yourself feeling full and energized without the heaviness that often comes with traditional pasta recipes.
Quick and Easy: In just under 30 minutes, you can whip up this delicious meal, making it ideal for families on the go or anyone looking for a quick, nutritious option after a long day.
Customizable: Whether you have dietary restrictions or personal preferences, this recipe is incredibly flexible. Swap out the turkey for another protein or toss in your favorite vegetables to make it your own.
- Low in Calories: This "no-guilt" pasta uses whole grain or gluten-free noodles as a base, keeping the calorie count lower without sacrificing satisfaction.
Ingredients
For this dish, you will need:
- 8 oz. whole wheat or gluten-free pasta
- 1 lb. lean ground turkey
- 4 cups fresh spinach (or more if you love your greens!)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 can (14.5 oz.) diced tomatoes, with juices
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray or 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Turkey and Spinach Mixture
- In a large skillet, spray with olive oil or heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent (about 3-5 minutes).
- Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Sprinkle in Italian seasoning and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until well combined.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
- Add the canned diced tomatoes (with juices) and fresh spinach to the skillet. Stir well and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the spinach to wilt.
- Finally, toss in the cooked pasta, mixing everything thoroughly. Heat for another minute until the pasta is warmed through.
- Serve hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips for Success
- Add More Veggies: If you want to up the nutrition even further, consider adding chopped bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to the turkey mix.
- Meal Prep: This recipe stores well in the fridge for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep. Just reheat it in the microwave when you’re ready to eat!
- Flavor Boosters: For an extra punch of flavor, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Final Thoughts
There you have it; a simple, healthy, and satisfying pasta dish that won’t leave you feeling guilty. This No-Guilt Pasta with Spinach and Ground Turkey is perfect for meal prep and family dinners alike. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy pasta while incorporating lean protein and nutritious greens into your diet.
So, whether you’re a busy parent, a student, or just someone who appreciates delicious food that’s also good for you, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Dive into this guilt-free pasta delight and nurture both your taste buds and your body! Enjoy your cooking journey with Skillit Cooking: Simple, Easy Recipes.
