Ground Turkey and Colorful Bell Peppers Stir-Fry Recipe
A quick and healthy weeknight meal featuring lean ground turkey cooked with colorful bell peppers and fragrant spices, resulting in a flavorful and vibrant skillet dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect served over rice, quinoa, or lettuce wraps.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp chili powder (optional, for heat)
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
Liquids and Sauces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or coconut aminos
- Juice of ½ lime (optional, for brightness)
Garnish
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté the Onions and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add diced onions and cook for about 3 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, ensuring it does not burn. This step builds the flavor base for the dish.
- Cook the Ground Turkey: Add ground turkey to the skillet and use a wooden spoon to break it into small pieces. Cook, stirring frequently, for 5 to 6 minutes until the turkey is no longer pink and has absorbed the flavors of the onions and garlic.
- Add the Spices: Sprinkle smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder (if using), salt, and black pepper over the cooked turkey. Stir thoroughly to coat the meat evenly with the spices, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Incorporate the Bell Peppers: Add the sliced bell peppers to the skillet, stirring gently to combine. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the peppers start to soften but still retain some crunch, adding both texture and vibrant color.
- Simmer the Mixture: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, tomato paste, and soy sauce. Stir well to fully incorporate the tomato paste and evenly distribute the sauces. Let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and flavors meld together.
- Finish with Lime Juice and Garnish: Turn off the heat and squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish to add a bright, zesty finish. Stir to combine. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences.
- This dish can be served over rice, quinoa, or wrapped in lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently before serving.
- Adding diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes can provide extra heat for those who prefer a spicier flavor.
- Substitute ground turkey with ground chicken, beef, or plant-based alternatives as desired, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- Don’t skip the lime juice—it brightens and balances the dish beautifully.
Keywords: ground turkey, bell peppers, healthy dinner, quick meal, low calorie, skillet recipe, weeknight dinner, lean protein, colorful vegetables
