Tex Mex Leftover Turkey Spaghetti Squash
Try this Tex Mex Leftover Turkey Spaghetti Squash recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Tex Mex Leftover Turkey Spaghetti Squash recipe, or contribute your own.
- 1 tsp cumin
- 2 medium onions chopped
- 2 large garlic cloves minced
- 3 tbsp cilantro chopped
- 1 large spaghetti squash (4 lbs)
- 1 tbsp coconut or avocado oil
- 2 large bell peppers chopped
- 1 lb leftover turkey sliced or shredded
- 14 oz can black beans rinsed & drained (i cook my own)
- 1 tsp taco seasoning (more to taste)
- 1 tsp salt*
- 1/4 cup feta cheese or queso fresco crumbled
- lime juice of (optional)
- Carbohydrate 38.3745039423557 g
- Cholesterol 390.0894382 mg
- Fat 34.0383457641215 g
- Fiber 9.57147236462297 g
- Protein 96.0576727470437 g
- Saturated Fat 9.93399117209563 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (1015g)
- Sodium 2619.13645812716 mg
- Sugar 28.8030315777327 g
- Trans Fat 3.741066481656 g
- Calories 852 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 375 F degrees F.
- Wash squash, cut in half lengthwise and remove seeds with a spoon.
- Punch randomly with a fork, place cut side down on a baking sheet lined with unbleached parchment paper and bake for 50-60 minutes.
- Remove squash from the oven, let cool until it's safe to the touch and separate into strands with a fork.
- Set aside.
- In the meanwhile, preheat large non-stick skillet or dutch oven on low-medium heat and swirl oil to coat.
- Add onions, garlic and bell peppers; cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add squash, turkey, beans, cumin, taco seasoning and salt.
- Stir gently to mix, cover and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat, sprinkle with cheese, cilantro and squeeze lime juice on top.
- Taste and adjust any seasonings to taste.
- Serve hot.
Tex Mex Leftover Turkey Spaghetti Squash: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, I’m always on the lookout for quick, healthy, and delicious meals that the whole family will enjoy. This Tex Mex Leftover Turkey Spaghetti Squash recipe has become a staple in our household. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover Thanksgiving turkey (or any leftover roasted chicken!), and it's packed with flavor and nutrients. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make, even on a weeknight when time is tight. Forget the complicated recipes and lengthy cooking times; this dish comes together in under an hour, leaving you with more time to spend with your loved ones.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. Love it spicy? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños. Prefer a milder flavor? Reduce the amount of taco seasoning. You can also experiment with different cheeses – Monterey Jack, cheddar, or even a blend would work wonderfully. The spaghetti squash itself is a nutritional powerhouse, offering a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional pasta. Its slightly sweet flavor complements the savory Tex-Mex spices perfectly.
This dish isn't just about convenience; it's about creating a comforting and satisfying meal for your family. The vibrant colors of the bell peppers, the warmth of the spices, and the creamy texture of the cheese all contribute to a truly enjoyable dining experience. It's the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table, fostering connection and shared moments amidst the chaos of daily life. Plus, the leftovers are just as delicious the next day, making it a perfect meal-prep option. So, the next time you're looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful weeknight dinner, give this Tex Mex Leftover Turkey Spaghetti Squash a try. You won't be disappointed!
Ingredients you'll need: (This recipe is easily adaptable to the amount of turkey you have on hand)
- 1 large spaghetti squash (about 4 pounds)
- 1 pound leftover turkey, sliced or shredded
- 1 (14-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 medium onions, chopped
- 2 large garlic cloves, minced
- 2 large bell peppers (any color), chopped
- 1 tablespoon coconut or avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon taco seasoning (or more, to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 3 tablespoons chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese or queso fresco
- Lime juice (optional)
Tips and Variations:
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a Mexican cheese blend.
- If you don't have leftover turkey, you can easily substitute with cooked chicken or ground beef.
- For a vegetarian option, omit the turkey and add extra beans or vegetables like corn or zucchini.
- To make this recipe even faster, you can use pre-cooked spaghetti squash from the grocery store.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.
This Tex Mex Leftover Turkey Spaghetti Squash is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to the magic of transforming simple ingredients into a satisfying and flavorful meal. It's a celebration of resourcefulness, a reflection of our busy lives, and a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine. So go ahead, give it a try and let me know what you think!
