This quick and easy turkey and spinach skillet recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. Packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and savory Greek-inspired flavors, it’s a healthy and satisfying meal that comes together in under 40 minutes.
Perfect for the whole family, this one-pan wonder will quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation. Enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal without the fuss!
Table of Contents
Ingredients Required
Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavorful dish.
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 colored bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground turkey
- ¼ cup red wine
- 1 14.5 oz can chopped tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ¼ tsp cinnamon
- 1 tbs lemon juice
- 3 cups baby spinach
- 10 ozs orzo
- ¼ cup feta cheese, plus additional for serving
- 8 olives, sliced
How to cook Quick Turkey and Spinach Skillet?
Follow these simple steps to make this delicious one-pan meal.
Step 1: Sauté the Veggies
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the bell pepper and cook for a few more minutes. Finally, add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Turkey
Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with a heavy spoon. Stir to combine with the vegetables and then pour in the red wine.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Once the red wine has been absorbed (after about a minute or two), stir in the chopped tomatoes, oregano, and cinnamon. At this point, you should begin cooking the orzo according to package directions.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Simmer the turkey and vegetable mixture for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the turkey is cooked through. Stir in the baby spinach and cook for a few more minutes until it has wilted. Then, stir in the lemon juice, olives, and feta cheese.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Drain the cooked orzo. You can either serve the turkey skillet mixture over a scoop of orzo on a plate or stir the cooked orzo directly into the skillet to combine everything before plating. Garnish with additional feta cheese and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of ground meat?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with ground chicken or even lean ground beef. The cooking time may vary slightly, so ensure the meat is cooked through before serving.
What can I substitute for orzo?
If you don’t have orzo, you can use other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice or quinoa. Couscous is another great option that cooks quickly.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the turkey and vegetable mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the mixture and cook the orzo.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the orzo with a gluten-free pasta, rice, or quinoa.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Skillet
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Use a large skillet to ensure the turkey browns evenly and the vegetables have enough space to cook.
- Toast the spices: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the dried oregano and cinnamon in the pan for about 30 seconds before adding the tomatoes.
- Fresh is best: While dried herbs work well, using fresh oregano and spinach will elevate the flavors of the dish.
- Add a kick: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the other spices.
