Turkey Fettuccini Marinara Recipe
Introduction
Turkey Fettuccini Marinara is a delightful dish that marries the tender and flavorful turkey with the rich and tangy marinara sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked fettuccini pasta. This dish not only brings a burst of vibrant flavors but also offers a wholesome and satisfying meal. With a preparation time of 30 minutes and a cooking time of 25 minutes, this recipe fits perfectly into a busy schedule while still delivering a restaurant-quality meal at home. Whether you are preparing for a cozy family dinner or an impressive lunch for guests, this dish is versatile and suitable for various occasions.
Recipe Overview
- Name: Turkey Fettuccini Marinara
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 358.4 kcal per serving
- Category: Sauces
- Keywords: One Dish Meal, Lunch/Snacks, Poultry, Cheese, Vegetable, Meat, European, Spring, Winter, Spicy, < 60 Mins, Stove Top, Small Appliance, Easy
Ingredients
To prepare this dish, you will need the following ingredients, carefully measured to serve four people:
- Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
- Fresh mushrooms – 1 cup, sliced
- Onion – 8 ounces, finely chopped
- Fresh ground pepper – 1/3 teaspoon
- Dried thyme – 1/4 teaspoon
- Fettuccine pasta – 8 ounces
- Stewed tomatoes – 1 can (8 ounces), with juices
- Cornstarch – 1 tablespoon
- Lemon juice – 2 tablespoons
- Dried basil – 1 teaspoon
- Parmesan cheese – 1/2 cup, grated
- Turkey slices – 4 to 6 thin slices, approximately 1/2 inch thick
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional values per serving, ensuring you have all the details needed to make informed choices about your meal:
- Calories: 358.4 kcal
- Fat Content: 3.6 g
- Saturated Fat Content: 0.7 g
- Cholesterol Content: 113.3 mg
- Sodium Content: 313 mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 43.7 g
- Fiber Content: 2 g
- Sugar Content: 6.3 g
- Protein Content: 37.6 g
Instructions
To create this scrumptious Turkey Fettuccini Marinara, follow these step-by-step instructions:
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Prepare the Turkey:
- Heat a 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat and coat with vegetable cooking spray.
- Place the turkey slices in the skillet and cook for about 2 minutes per side, or until they are lightly browned.
- Remove the turkey from the skillet and keep warm.
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Sauté Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Toss in the sliced fresh mushrooms, chopped onion, fresh ground pepper, and dried thyme.
- Cook and stir for about 2 to 3 minutes, or until the onion becomes tender.
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Cook Fettuccini:
- In a separate large pot, cook the fettuccini pasta according to the package directions until al dente.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta and stir it into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Remove from heat and set aside.
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Prepare the Marinara Sauce:
- In a food processor, combine the stewed tomatoes, cornstarch, lemon juice, and dried basil.
- Blend until the tomatoes are coarsely chopped, creating a slightly chunky sauce.
- Transfer the mixture to a small saucepan and cook over medium-high heat, stirring frequently for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
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Assemble the Dish:
- Plate the fettuccini pasta and top it with the cooked turkey slices.
- Spoon the marinara sauce generously over the turkey and pasta.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for an added layer of flavor and a touch of elegance.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve immediately while hot, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added zest and visual appeal.
Tips and Variations
To ensure your Turkey Fettuccini Marinara is both delightful and customized to your taste, consider these helpful tips and variations:
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Turkey Alternatives:
- If turkey is not available, chicken breast can be a great substitute. It offers a similar texture and flavor, making it an excellent alternative.
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Vegetarian Option:
- To make this dish vegetarian, replace the turkey with a hearty vegetable such as eggplant or zucchini slices. Cook them in the same manner as the turkey for a similar texture.
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Pasta Variations:
- While fettuccini is traditional for this recipe, other pasta types like linguine, spaghetti, or penne can also work well, offering a different texture and experience.
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Cheese Choices:
- Instead of Parmesan, you might experiment with Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese, each adding its unique flavor profile to the dish.
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Spice Level:
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red chili flakes to the marinara sauce or sauté a diced jalapeno with the vegetables.
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Herb Enhancements:
- Fresh herbs such as basil, oregano, or parsley can be added just before serving to enhance the flavor and add a burst of color.
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Extra Vegetables:
- Incorporate more vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or cherry tomatoes to increase the nutritional value and add more layers of flavor.
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Nutritional Adjustments:
- For a lower-carb version, consider using zucchini noodles or other vegetable-based noodles instead of traditional fettuccini.
Culinary Techniques
Understanding the culinary techniques involved in this recipe can elevate your cooking skills and ensure a successful dish:
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Sautéing:
- This method involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of fat over high heat. It helps in developing a rich flavor and tender texture, especially for vegetables.
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Browning Meat:
- Browning the turkey slices adds a layer of flavor through the Maillard reaction, which occurs when proteins and sugars in the meat react under heat, creating a complex flavor profile.
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Blending Sauces:
- Using a food processor to blend the marinara ingredients ensures a smooth and well-integrated sauce. This method allows for control over the sauce’s texture, from chunky to smooth, based on personal preference.
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Pasta Cooking:
- Cooking pasta to al dente means it should be firm to the bite, not mushy. This texture is essential for holding up well when mixed with the sauce and other ingredients.
Seasonal Adaptations
This Turkey Fettuccini Marinara is versatile enough to adapt to various seasons:
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Spring:
- Incorporate fresh spring vegetables such as asparagus or peas for a light and fresh touch.
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Summer:
- Use fresh, vine-ripened tomatoes for the sauce instead of canned stewed tomatoes for a brighter flavor.
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Fall:
- Add roasted butternut squash or mushrooms to enhance the earthiness of the dish.
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Winter:
- Incorporate hearty vegetables like kale or Brussels sprouts for a more robust and warming meal.
Storage and Reheating
For those who like to prepare meals ahead of time or have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat your Turkey Fettuccini Marinara:
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Refrigeration:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Freezing:
- This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Ensure that it is cooled completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Label with the date for easy reference.
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Reheating:
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce as needed. Alternatively, microwave on medium power until heated through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Pairing Suggestions
Enhance your dining experience by pairing this Turkey Fettuccini Marinara with complementary sides and beverages:
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Side Dishes:
- Garlic Bread: A classic companion, perfect for soaking up the extra marinara sauce.
- Caesar Salad: Offers a crisp and refreshing contrast with its tangy dressing and crunchy croutons.
- Steamed Vegetables: A simple side of broccoli or green beans provides additional nutrients and color.
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Beverages:
- White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly oaked Chardonnay pairs well with the dish’s flavors.
- Red Wine: For red wine lovers, a light-bodied Pinot Noir complements the turkey and marinara sauce.
- Sparkling Water: A refreshing choice that helps cleanse the palate between bites.
Conclusion
Turkey Fettuccini Marinara is a deliciously balanced dish that combines the richness of a classic marinara sauce with the tender, juicy slices of turkey, all tossed with al dente fettuccini pasta. This recipe is straightforward, making it suitable for both novice cooks and experienced chefs looking for a quick yet satisfying meal. Its versatility allows for endless variations and adjustments to cater to individual tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re enjoying it as a comforting winter meal or a vibrant spring lunch, this dish promises to delight with its robust flavors and comforting textures. Enjoy the culinary journey and the delectable results of this savory recipe!
