If you are searching for a quick, flavorful dinner that perfectly balances savory and sweet elements, this Teriyaki Ground Turkey with Broccoli and Peas Recipe is an absolute winner. It brings together tender, lean ground turkey with crisp broccoli and sweet peas, all tossed in a luscious teriyaki sauce that coats every bite with irresistible umami goodness. This dish is not only wholesome and colorful but also ready in just about 30 minutes, making it a fantastic weeknight meal that doesn’t compromise on taste or nutrition.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Teriyaki Ground Turkey with Broccoli and Peas Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a vital role in flavor, texture, or visual appeal. From the aromatic garlic and onion that set a savory foundation to the vibrant vegetables adding freshness, every element is essential to this delightful dish.
- Olive oil: A heart-healthy fat that helps sauté the aromatics to perfection.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with a warm and pungent aroma that wakes up your taste buds.
- Chopped white onion: Adds sweetness and depth while softening to melt into the mix.
- Lean ground turkey: The protein star of the show, offering a lighter alternative to beef without sacrificing satisfaction.
- Shredded carrots: Brings natural sweetness and a subtle crunch to brighten the dish.
- Broccoli florets, chopped small: Adds vibrant green color and a lovely tender-crisp texture.
- Frozen peas: Easy to use, these bring a pop of sweetness and freshness.
- Teriyaki sauce: The rich, tangy glaze that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
- Cooked rice (optional): Perfect to serve alongside or under the main dish for a hearty meal.
How to Make Teriyaki Ground Turkey with Broccoli and Peas Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, and sauté them until they become fragrant and softened, usually about 3 to 4 minutes. This step builds a savory base that will carry the rest of the flavors beautifully.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Turkey
Next, add the lean ground turkey to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks, allowing it to brown evenly and release its juices. Cook until it’s fully cooked through, which usually takes around 6 to 8 minutes. This ensures the turkey stays tender and juicy while absorbing all those wonderful aromatics.
Step 3: Add the Carrots and Broccoli
Once the turkey is cooked, stir in the shredded carrots and chopped broccoli florets. Cook everything together for 5 to 6 minutes, giving the vegetables enough time to soften slightly but still maintain a pleasant bite and fresh color.
Step 4: Incorporate Peas and Teriyaki Sauce
Stir in the frozen peas along with the teriyaki sauce, making sure every ingredient gets a glossy coating of that sweet and savory goodness. Let the mixture cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until everything is heated through and the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 5: Serve It Up
Serve this delicious creation hot, spooned over freshly cooked rice if desired. The rice helps soak up the flavorful sauce, making each bite a perfect harmony of textures and tastes.
How to Serve Teriyaki Ground Turkey with Broccoli and Peas Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Teriyaki Ground Turkey with Broccoli and Peas Recipe even further, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or finely chopped green onions on top. These simple garnishes add a delightful crunch and a fresh, sharp note that complements the richness of the dish elegantly.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine or brown rice as a classic foundation. For extra veggies, consider serving it with a light side salad or some pickled cucumber slices to add a bright contrast that refreshes the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the teriyaki turkey and veggies in lettuce cups for a low-carb option, wrapping the flavorful filling in crisp greens. Alternatively, try stuffing it into warm pita pockets or serving over a bed of quinoa for a protein-packed variation that keeps things interesting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Teriyaki Ground Turkey with Broccoli and Peas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it to room temperature before refrigerating to keep the flavors fresh and the texture intact.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the cooked dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Stir occasionally to warm everything evenly without drying out the ground turkey or vegetables. Adding a splash of water or extra teriyaki sauce can help revive the saucy texture.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works just as well and will deliver a similar light, lean protein that absorbs the teriyaki flavors beautifully.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This depends on the teriyaki sauce you choose. Many store-bought teriyaki sauces contain gluten, so opt for a gluten-free variety or make your own to keep the recipe gluten-free.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms to customize the dish to your liking and enhance the color and texture variety.
What can I substitute for teriyaki sauce if I don’t have any?
You can create a quick substitute by combining soy sauce, honey, garlic, and a splash of vinegar or citrus juice to mimic that sweet-savory teriyaki flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This Teriyaki Ground Turkey with Broccoli and Peas Recipe keeps well in the fridge and is perfect for pre-packaged lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
This Teriyaki Ground Turkey with Broccoli and Peas Recipe has quickly become a go-to favorite for the perfect balance of ease, nutrition, and mouthwatering flavor. Its vibrant veggies and tender turkey come together in a cozy, saucy hug that’s simply too good to resist. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you might just find your new weeknight dinner obsession!
Print
Teriyaki Ground Turkey with Broccoli and Peas Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A flavorful and nutritious dish featuring lean ground turkey sautéed with fresh vegetables and coated in a savory teriyaki sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner and can be served over rice for a complete meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1½ cups chopped white onion
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped small
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1½ cups teriyaki sauce
- 4 cups cooked rice (for serving, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion, then sauté until fragrant and softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook the turkey: Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked through, approximately 6-8 minutes.
- Add vegetables: Stir in shredded carrots and chopped broccoli florets. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Incorporate peas and sauce: Add the frozen peas and teriyaki sauce to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until heated through and flavors meld.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve the teriyaki ground turkey and vegetables hot over cooked rice if desired.
Notes
- Use lean ground turkey to keep the dish light and healthy.
- Substitute teriyaki sauce with low-sodium options for a heart-healthier meal.
- Vegetables can be varied based on preference or availability.
- Cooked rice is optional, but recommended for a complete and filling meal.
- To make it gluten-free, ensure the teriyaki sauce is gluten-free.
