Delicious and Easy Turkey and Veggie Spaghetti Recipe
If you’re searching for a new and exciting twist on a classic spaghetti dish, this Delicious and Easy Turkey and Veggie Spaghetti is exactly what you need. Inspired by a Greek friend’s unique approach to spaghetti, this recipe incorporates aromatic cinnamon into the sauce, giving the dish a lovely Mediterranean flair. It’s a light, healthy one-dish meal that’s perfect for a family dinner or a quick weeknight meal. Ready in just 45 minutes, this dish is simple, yet full of flavor, and will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Green bell pepper | 1 |
| Yellow onion | 1 |
| Garlic cloves | 4 |
| Zucchini | 1 |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Fresh basil leaves | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh oregano | 2 teaspoons |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground turkey | 1 pound |
| Pasta (your choice) | 1 pound |
| Pasta sauce | 2 cups |
| Parmesan or Romano cheese | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 516.4 |
| Total Fat | 9.2g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.4g |
| Cholesterol | 46.9mg |
| Sodium | 636.7mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 75.1g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.2g |
| Sugars | 13.8g |
| Protein | 31.8g |
Preparation Time
| Stage | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 25 minutes |
| Total Time | 45 minutes |
Instructions
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Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and green bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the bell peppers soften and become fragrant.
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Add the Onion and Zucchini: Toss in the chopped onion and zucchini. Continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
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Cook the Turkey: In a separate pan, brown the ground turkey over medium-high heat. Add salt, pepper, basil, oregano, and the star ingredient—cinnamon. Stir well and cook until the turkey is browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
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Combine the Turkey and Vegetables: Once the turkey is cooked, add it to the sautéed vegetables, stirring everything together. Let the mixture cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Simmer with Pasta Sauce: Pour in the pasta sauce, stirring to combine everything evenly. Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer for 5-10 minutes, until all the flavors have blended and the sauce thickens slightly.
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Cook the Pasta: While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a small amount of pasta water.
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Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce mixture, adding a little pasta water if necessary to achieve the desired consistency. Stir everything together so the pasta is well coated in the savory sauce.
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Serve: Serve the turkey and veggie spaghetti hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan or Romano cheese. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
This Turkey and Veggie Spaghetti is delicious as is, but you can elevate the dish by adding a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. For an extra protein boost, add grilled chicken or more ground turkey to the sauce. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add a spicy kick to the meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This delicious spaghetti recipe is perfect for those looking for a healthier alternative to traditional pasta dishes. With lean ground turkey, fresh veggies, and a touch of cinnamon for a unique flavor twist, it’s a balanced meal that’s low in cholesterol and high in protein. The addition of aromatic herbs like basil and oregano creates a Mediterranean-inspired taste that is both comforting and satisfying.
Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings, this turkey and veggie spaghetti can be made in under an hour. It’s a dish everyone will love, especially if you’re looking to try something a bit different. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables into your diet, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious eaters.
This recipe is versatile too—swap in any vegetables you have on hand, or use gluten-free pasta for a more diet-friendly option. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding the whole family, this meal is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.
