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Simple Low Carb Ground Turkey Recipe for Healthy Eating - Flavorful, Fast, and Satisfying

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground turkey (93% lean works best for flavor and moisture)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 medium zucchini, diced
  • 2 cups chopped spinach (fresh or frozen, squeezed dry)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (regular paprika works too)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh lime (optional, for serving)
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

Instructions
 

  • Prep the veggies: Dice the onion, bell pepper, and zucchini. Mince the garlic. Chop the spinach if using large leaves. Keep everything ready by the stove.
  • Heat the pan: Set a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and let it warm until it shimmers.
  • Sauté aromatics: Add the onion with a pinch of salt. Cook 3–4 minutes, stirring, until softened. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Brown the turkey: Add the ground turkey. Break it up with a spoon and cook 5–7 minutes until no longer pink and lightly browned. Season with a little salt and pepper.
  • Add spices and tomato paste: Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Add the tomato paste and cook 1 minute to bloom the spices.
  • Cook the veggies: Add bell pepper and zucchini. Stir to coat in the spices. Cook 4–5 minutes until the veggies soften slightly but still have some bite.
  • Deglaze and simmer: Pour in the chicken broth. Scrape up any browned bits from the pan. Simmer 3–4 minutes until the liquid reduces to a saucy coating.
  • Stir in greens: Add the spinach and cook 1–2 minutes until wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lime if you like brightness.
  • Garnish and serve: Remove from heat. Top with chopped cilantro or parsley. Serve as-is, over cauliflower rice, in lettuce cups, or alongside a simple salad.