Tasty Turkey Tacos

Here is another recipe I found while shopping for groceries on Fresh Direct.  As I try to find time to prepare dinner with a newborn, I’ve been looking for recipes that are quick and healthy (so I can lose the baby weight).  This recipe — requiring little prep work and using ground turkey — fit the bill.

I’ve never made tacos with tomato sauce as an ingredient — it imparts some sweetness to the dish reminding me vaguely of Sloppy Joe’s.  There is definitely some heat from the chili powder, cumin and paprika.

I served the tacos with lettuce, chopped tomatoes, and shredded cheese.  This is definitely a tasty alternative to my typical beef tacos!

Tasty Turkey Tacos
From “The Great American Eat-Right Cookbook” by Colleen Doyle and Jeanne Besser (via Fresh Direct)

• 1 tablespoon canola oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 1/4 pounds ground turkey breast
• 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 2 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Hot sauce, such as Tabasco
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 12 (6-inch) flour tortillas

Optional Toppings:

• 2 cups shredded lettuce
• 1 cup chopped tomato
• 3/4 cup “Mexican-style” shredded cheese
• 1/2 cup reduced-fat or regular sour cream
• 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped jalapeños
• Taco sauce or salsa

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add oil. Sauté the onion for 5 to 8 minutes, or until softened. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add turkey and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring frequently to break it up. Add tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, and paprika and stir well to combine. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with hot sauce, salt, and pepper.

Meanwhile, wrap the tortillas in a damp paper towel and warm in the microwave on HIGH for 15 to 30 seconds.

When ready to serve, place toppings in small bowls on the table. Layer about 1/3 cup of turkey in a tortilla and add desired toppings.