Spiced Lentil and Ground Turkey Skillet: A Nutrient-Dense Culinary Preparation
Cook time: 40 minutes
This integrative meal framework is characterized by a high-protein, high-dietary-fiber profile suitable for individuals pursuing nutrient density, satiety, and metabolic support.
Primary Entrée
Component Profile:
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 8 ounces (approximately 227 grams) lean ground turkey
- 1 cup pre-cooked lentils (or 1/2 cup dry lentils, hydrated and prepared)
- 1 small Allium cepa (onion), finely diced
- 2 cloves Allium sativum (garlic), minced
- 1 cup finely chopped Brassica oleracea (spinach or kale)
- 1 teaspoon ground Cuminum cyminum (cumin)
- 1/2 teaspoon Capsicum annuum (smoked paprika)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for enhanced piquancy)
- Sodium chloride and Piper nigrum (salt and black pepper), to taste
- Citrus limon wedge (optional, for finishing acidity)
Procedural Methodology:
- In a medium-sized sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium thermal input until shimmering.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic; allow to soften and become aromatic, approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
- Incorporate ground turkey and continue cooking until the protein is thoroughly browned and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Introduce pre-cooked lentils, leafy greens, and selected spices into the skillet. Continue sautéing for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, ensuring even distribution and thermal integration of all components.
- Optionally, finish with freshly squeezed lemon juice to enhance brightness and balance.
Complementary Side: Roasted Daucus carota with Cucumis sativus Salad
Component Profile:
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and julienned into narrow sticks
- 1/2 cucumber, finely sliced into thin rounds
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Salt, black pepper, and a minor dusting of ground cumin or paprika
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or red wine vinegar
Procedural Methodology:
- Preheat convection or conventional oven to 400°F (204°C).
- In a mixing vessel, coat carrot batons with olive oil, seasoning agents, and optional spices.
- Arrange on a baking sheet and roast for 15 to 20 minutes, turning midway to promote uniform caramelization.
- Combine roasted carrots with cucumber slices in a serving bowl.
- Just prior to serving, apply acidic component (lemon juice or vinegar) to enhance flavor contrast.
Condiment: Cultured Yogurt-Garlic Emulsion
Component Profile:
- 1/2 cup strained Greek yogurt (plain, unsweetened)
- 1 small garlic clove, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Optional: Lemon juice or a trace of Anethum graveolens (dill) or Mentha (mint) for aromatic complexity
Procedural Methodology:
- Thoroughly blend all constituents in a small mixing bowl until homogeneous.
- Allow the emulsion to rest for a minimum of 5 minutes to enable flavor synergies.
- Deploy as a complementary garnish to the primary dish or as a dipping medium for the salad.
Nutritional Composition (Estimated for Full Meal, Serves Two)
Field | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 680 |
Protein | 56g |
Fat | 28g |
Carbs | 52g |
Fiber | 16g |
Sugar | 11g |
Volume | ~750g |
Per 250g (~1c): 227 calories, 19g protein, 9g fat, 17g carbs, 5g fiber, 4g sugar
This integrative meal framework is characterized by a high-protein, high-dietary-fiber profile suitable for individuals pursuing nutrient density, satiety, and metabolic support.