Description
Mexican-inspired spicy cauliflower rice with ground turkey delivers a zesty, low-carb meal packed with flavor and protein. Lean ground turkey mingles with riced cauliflower, creating a satisfying dish that will make you crave more.
Ingredients
Scale
Primary Protein:
- 1 pound (454 grams) ground turkey (93% lean recommended)
Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat level)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Vegetables and Liquid Ingredients:
- 3 cups cauliflower rice (fresh or frozen)
- ½ onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ½ cup chicken broth (or water)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (for brightness)
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro (for garnish)
- ½ avocado, sliced (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the aromatic base by sautéing diced onions and bell peppers in olive oil until they become translucent and softened, releasing their sweet, fragrant essence.
- Introduce minced garlic to the skillet, allowing its pungent aroma to bloom for a brief moment, creating a flavor foundation for the dish.
- Add ground turkey to the pan, gently breaking it into small, uniform crumbles using a wooden spoon or spatula, and cook until the meat transforms from pink to a rich, golden-brown color.
- Elevate the flavor profile by generously sprinkling a blend of vibrant spices – chili powder, smoky paprika, earthy cumin, fiery cayenne, and a touch of red pepper flakes – directly onto the sizzling turkey.
- Incorporate tomato paste, stirring thoroughly to create a robust, deeply seasoned coating that clings to every morsel of meat.
- Pour chicken broth into the skillet, then fold in the cauliflower rice, ensuring each grain is evenly distributed and absorbs the rich, spicy liquid.
- Allow the cauliflower rice to simmer and tenderize, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a perfect al dente texture and the broth nearly completely evaporates.
- Brighten the dish with a splash of fresh lime juice, stirring to distribute the citrusy tang throughout the skillet.
- Remove from heat and garnish with a generous sprinkle of chopped cilantro, adding a fresh, herbaceous note to the spicy mixture.
- Serve immediately, accompanied by creamy avocado slices and additional lime wedges for those seeking an extra burst of zesty flavor.
Notes
- Swap ground turkey with plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version that maintains the protein-packed punch.
- Reduce cayenne and red pepper flakes for a milder heat profile perfect for sensitive palates or kids.
- Freeze leftover cauliflower rice in individual portions for quick meal prep during busy weekdays.
- Boost nutrition by adding extra vegetables like diced zucchini or spinach during the turkey cooking stage for added vitamins and fiber.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg