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Italian Ground Turkey Spinach Orzo

Healthy Italian Ground Turkey Spinach Orzo in One Pot

This Italian Ground Turkey Spinach Orzo is a quick, healthy, and family-friendly dinner ready in 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 1 pound Ground Turkey Provides lean protein; swap with ground chicken for a similar flavor.
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Acts as a hearty base, ensuring a satisfying bite.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Adds richness and is essential for browning the turkey.
  • 1 medium Onion Finely diced for sweetness; quick to cook.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Freshly minced for the best aroma.
For the Flavor
  • 4 cups Chicken Broth Creates a savory liquid for cooking the orzo.
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning Delivers authentic Italian flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Adds heat; adjust based on preference.
  • 1 pinch Nutmeg Infuses warmth into the flavor profile.
  • to taste Salt & Pepper Essential for enhancing overall seasoning.
For the Finish
  • 2 cups Spinach Roughly chopped for greens without overpowering.
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated for creaminess.
  • 1 medium Lemon A squeeze adds brightness.
  • Fresh Basil Optional garnish.

Equipment

  • large pot

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Begin by finely dicing one onion and mincing three cloves of garlic. Roughly chop about two cups of fresh spinach. In a small bowl, combine a teaspoon each of Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
  2. Heat a large pot over medium heat and add two tablespoons of olive oil. Add one pound of ground turkey, breaking it up as it cooks for 8-10 minutes.
  3. In the same pot, heat an additional tablespoon of olive oil on medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 1-2 minutes, then add the minced garlic.
  4. Stir in one cup of orzo pasta, toasting it lightly for 1-2 minutes.
  5. Next, pour in four cups of chicken broth, bring it to a rapid boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover, letting it simmer for 8-10 minutes.
  6. Stir in the reserved ground turkey, chopped spinach, and half a cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
  7. Remove the pot from heat and finish the dish with a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 30gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 2500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Stir frequently to prevent sticking and add more broth if needed. Add spinach at the end for best texture.

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