Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds until shimmering.
- Add ground turkey, season generously with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula or meat chopper into small, even pieces, about 6-7 minutes until no pink remains.
- Add diced onion, garlic powder, dried oregano, and dried basil to the skillet. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and turns translucent and the herbs release their aroma.
- Pour in the salsa and add the butter. Stir constantly until the butter melts completely, about 1-2 minutes, then add the fresh spinach. Cook until the spinach wilts completely, about 2-3 minutes, adding in batches if necessary.
- Stir in cottage cheese, Worcestershire sauce, garlic salt, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook gently for another 2-3 minutes until the cottage cheese warms and the sauce becomes creamy, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to thicken and meld the flavors. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or spice as needed.
- Serve hot on its own or over rice, quinoa, cauliflower rice, or your preferred base.
Notes
Ground turkey is a lean protein that absorbs surrounding flavors well. Ground chicken also works as a substitute. Use 2% or 4% fat cottage cheese for better texture and silkier consistency. Low-fat versions can get watery. Choose a salsa that fits your palate - chipotle-style adds smokiness, tomatillo blend brings brightness. Spinach can be substituted with kale or arugula. The 5-minute simmer allows flavors to meld and moisture to balance out properly.
