Ground Turkey Bowl

This Ground Turkey Bowl is the ultimate solution for a wholesome, flavorful meal that doesn't compromise on nutrition. Combining seasoned lean protein with a vibrant medley of roasted vegetables and hearty whole grains, it offers a perfectly balanced bowl that is as satisfying as it is easy to prepare.

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Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option to power through your day, this bowl delivers a rainbow of colors and textures. The smoky paprika and cumin bring the turkey to life, while the roasted broccoli and zucchini add a delicious caramelization that ties the whole dish together.

Ingredients

• Protein: 1 lb (450 g) ground turkey, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional), salt and freshly ground black pepper.
• Vegetables: 1 medium red bell pepper (diced), 1 medium zucchini (diced), 1 medium red onion (diced), 1 cup (150 g) cherry tomatoes (halved), 2 cups (150 g) broccoli florets, 1 tbsp olive oil, salt and pepper.
• Grains: 1 cup (185 g) brown rice or quinoa (uncooked), 2 cups (480 ml) water or low-sodium chicken broth, pinch of salt.
• Garnish: 1/4 cup (10 g) fresh cilantro or parsley (chopped), 1/2 avocado (sliced), lime wedges.

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a large bowl, toss the diced bell pepper, zucchini, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and broccoli florets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 3

Roast the vegetables for 20–25 minutes, making sure to stir them halfway through, until they are tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 4

While the vegetables are roasting, rinse the grains. In a saucepan, combine the rice or quinoa with water or broth and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered (15–20 minutes for rice; 12–15 minutes for quinoa) until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.

Step 5

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula.

Step 6

Stir in the smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and optional chili flakes. Season with salt and pepper, and cook for 6–8 minutes until the turkey is browned and fully cooked through.

Step 7

Assemble the bowls by dividing the cooked grains into four portions. Top each with the seasoned turkey and roasted vegetables.

Step 8

Garnish each bowl with fresh cilantro or parsley, avocado slices, and a fresh lime wedge before serving.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the best texture, always rinse your grains under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch. When roasting the vegetables, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet so they can brown properly instead of steaming. Using a large skillet will give the turkey plenty of room to sear and develop flavor.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is easily adapted to your preferences. You can substitute the turkey with ground chicken or plant-based crumbles. If you aren't strictly dairy-free, a sprinkle of feta cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt adds a wonderful tanginess and creamy texture to the dish.

Serviervorschläge

For extra depth of flavor, try drizzling the finished bowls with tahini or your favorite hot sauce. You can also vary the vegetable mix by using any seasonal produce you enjoy, making this a versatile meal that changes with the seasons.

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This Ground Turkey Bowl is a reliable, nutritious, and delicious staple for any kitchen. With its mix of fresh vegetables and savory spices, it’s a meal that leaves you feeling energized and satisfied. Enjoy the process of building your perfect bowl!

Recipe FAQs

→ What vegetables work best in these bowls?

Bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and broccoli roast beautifully together. Feel free to swap in whatever seasonal vegetables you enjoy—sweet potatoes, cauliflower, or green beans would all work wonderfully.

→ Can I use different grains?

Absolutely. Brown rice and quinoa are suggested, but farro, barley, or even cauliflower rice would work. Adjust cooking liquid and time according to your chosen grain package directions.

→ How long do these bowls keep in the refrigerator?

Stored in airtight containers, assembled bowls keep well for 4-5 days. For best texture, store grains, turkey, vegetables, and garnishes separately and combine when ready to eat.

→ Can I substitute the ground turkey?

Ground chicken, lean beef, or plant-based crumbles all work well here. Adjust cooking time slightly depending on your chosen protein—plant-based crumbles typically cook faster than meat.

→ What makes the turkey flavorful?

A blend of smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder creates a savory, slightly smoky profile. Don't skip the chili flakes if you enjoy heat—they add just the right kick.

→ Is this dairy-free?

Yes, the base version contains no dairy. However, notes suggest adding feta or Greek yogurt if you want extra richness. Simply omit those additions to keep it completely dairy-free.