Ingredients

• Main Ingredients
  • 2 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil, divided
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lb lean ground turkey, chicken, or beef
  • Sea salt and ground pepper, to taste
  • 2 medium zucchini, diced
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can fire-roasted tomatoes
  • ½ cup Colby jack or cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
  • Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish
• Seasonings
  • 2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil

Directions

1. Sauté Aromatics:
   Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 2 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Cook the Protein:
   Add ground turkey (or your choice of protein) to the skillet, cooking and breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook until golden brown, then transfer to a plate and set aside.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
   In the same skillet, heat the remaining oil over medium-high heat. Add zucchini and broccoli florets, cooking for about 4 minutes until tender-crisp.
4. Combine Ingredients:
   Return the cooked meat to the skillet. Stir in the fire-roasted tomatoes, oregano, basil, and half of the shredded cheese. Reduce heat to medium and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce.
5. Finish the Dish:
   Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top and let it melt. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~300 kcal
• Protein: ~25 g
• Fat: ~12 g
• Carbohydrates: ~15 g
• Fiber: ~3 g
• Sodium: ~400 mg

This versatile Turkey + Veggie Skillet is perfect on its own or paired with quinoa, rice, or a side salad for a more substantial meal. Enjoy!

What Makes the Turkey + Veggie Skillet Special?

Quick and Easy

Life gets busy, and having a recipe that’s ready in under 30 minutes is a lifesaver. This skillet meal minimizes prep time and cleanup while delivering a flavorful and wholesome dinner. The simplicity of cooking everything in one pan makes it accessible to home cooks of all skill levels.

Packed with Nutrition

This recipe is a powerhouse of nutrients. Ground turkey provides lean protein, while the zucchini, broccoli, and fire-roasted tomatoes contribute vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Together, these ingredients form a balanced meal that nourishes the body and satisfies hunger.

Customizable and Versatile

One of the best things about the Turkey + Veggie Skillet is its adaptability. You can swap out the vegetables, use a different protein, or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. It’s a flexible recipe that works with whatever you have on hand, making it perfect for reducing food waste and maximizing pantry staples.

Great for Meal Prepping

This dish reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prepping. Cook a big batch, portion it into individual containers, and enjoy it throughout the week. It’s a convenient way to stay on track with your nutrition goals while saving time and effort.

Nutritional Benefits of the Turkey + Veggie Skillet

High in Lean Protein

Ground turkey is a fantastic source of lean protein, providing essential amino acids without the high fat content of other proteins like ground beef. Protein is crucial for muscle repair, immune support, and maintaining energy levels.

Rich in Vegetables

The combination of zucchini, broccoli, and fire-roasted tomatoes adds a variety of vitamins and minerals to this dish. Zucchini is high in antioxidants and vitamin C, broccoli is packed with fiber and calcium, and tomatoes offer lycopene, an antioxidant known for its heart health benefits.

Low in Calories, High in Flavor

With around 300 calories per serving, this dish is light yet satisfying. The seasonings—oregano, basil, and garlic—add bold flavors without relying on heavy sauces or excessive salt.

Balanced Macros

Each serving offers a healthy balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates, making it suitable for those following balanced or low-carb diets. Pairing it with a whole grain like quinoa or rice can add additional complex carbs for those needing more energy.

Tips for Perfecting the Turkey + Veggie Skillet

Use Fresh Ingredients

While frozen vegetables can be convenient, fresh zucchini and broccoli deliver the best texture and flavor for this dish. If using frozen veggies, be sure to thaw and drain them to prevent excess moisture in the skillet.

Season Generously

The dried oregano and basil are key to the dish’s Italian-inspired flavor profile. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your taste—add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or some smoked paprika for depth.

Don’t Overcook the Vegetables

To retain their crunch and nutritional value, cook the zucchini and broccoli until tender-crisp. Overcooking can result in mushy vegetables and dull flavors.

Experiment with Cheese

Colby Jack or cheddar cheese works beautifully in this recipe, but you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, feta, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for a unique twist.

Add a Garnish

The fresh cilantro and lime wedges not only enhance the flavor but also add a pop of color. If cilantro isn’t your favorite, fresh parsley or green onions are excellent alternatives.

Creative Variations for the Turkey + Veggie Skillet

Swap the Protein

While ground turkey is the main protein in this dish, you can easily substitute it with other options:

• Ground Chicken or Beef: For a slightly richer flavor, use lean ground beef or ground chicken.
• Plant-Based Proteins: Crumbled tofu, tempeh, or a plant-based ground protein can make this dish vegetarian-friendly.
• Seafood: Add cooked shrimp or chunks of salmon for a pescatarian twist.

Try Different Vegetables

This recipe is a great way to use up whatever vegetables you have on hand. Consider adding:

• Bell peppers for sweetness and color
• Mushrooms for a savory, earthy flavor
• Spinach or kale for an extra boost of greens
• Carrots or snap peas for crunch

Adjust the Seasonings

Switch up the flavor profile by experimenting with different seasonings:

• Add a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil for an Asian-inspired version.
• Use cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika for a Tex-Mex twist.
• Add fresh rosemary or thyme for a more herbaceous flavor.

Serve It Your Way

While the skillet dish is delicious on its own, you can pair it with various sides to make it more substantial:

• Serve over rice, quinoa, or couscous for a heartier meal.
• Use it as a filling for tacos or wraps.
• Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete dinner.

Why the Turkey + Veggie Skillet is Perfect for Families

This dish is family-friendly in every sense. Its bright colors, rich flavors, and customizable ingredients make it appealing to kids and adults alike. Plus, the one-pan preparation means less time cleaning up, allowing you to spend more quality time with your loved ones.

For picky eaters, the vegetables can be finely diced or swapped out for their favorites. The mild seasonings can also be adjusted to suit more sensitive palates, making it a versatile option for everyone at the table.

Conclusion: A Recipe to Keep on Repeat

The Turkey + Veggie Skillet is a shining example of how simple ingredients and straightforward preparation can result in a delicious, wholesome meal. It’s the ultimate one-pan dinner for those who value flavor, nutrition, and efficiency. With its lean protein, fresh vegetables, and bold seasonings, this dish checks all the boxes for a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal.