- Ground Turkey: Choose lean ground turkey for a healthier option; it's packed with protein.
- Fresh Tomatoes: Opt for vine-ripened tomatoes for the best flavor, or use canned crushed tomatoes for convenience.
- Onion: Finely chopped onions will provide a sweet and savory base to your sauce.
- Garlic Cloves: Crushed garlic cloves add depth and aroma to your tomato sauce.
- Bell Peppers: Red bell peppers can be included for a touch of sweetness and color. Dice them finely before adding.
- Fresh Basil Leaves: A handful of fresh basil at the end will give your sauce that authentic Italian flavor.
- Olive Oil: Use high-quality olive oil for cooking to enhance the overall taste of the dish.
- Salt: For seasoning, use kosher salt or sea salt which provide a cleaner flavor profile compared to table salt.
- Black Pepper: Ground black pepper adds a nice kick and helps balance the sweetness of the tomatoes.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend that typically includes herbs like oregano, thyme, and basil, enhancing the overall taste.
- Red Wine (Optional): A splash of red wine can deepen the flavor of your sauce. Use a dry variety for best results.
- Sugar (Optional): A small amount of sugar can help balance out the acidity in tomatoes if needed.
Incorporate these ingredients to create an amazing ground turkey tomato sauce that is both flavorful and nutritious, perfect for pasta dishes or as a hearty main course. Don’t forget to add fresh basil at the end to give your dish that final burst of flavor!
Steps
### Amazing Ground Turkey Tomato Sauce Recipe
#### Overview:
This ground turkey tomato sauce recipe is perfect for pasta lovers who are looking to add some heartiness and flavor to their dishes without compromising on health. With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious, flavorful sauce that's both comforting and satisfying.
#### Ingredients Needed:
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup fresh or canned diced tomatoes
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
#### Step-by-Step Instructions:
##### Step 1: Prepare the Ground Turkey
1. **Chop the Onion and Garlic**: Finely chop one large onion and mince three cloves of garlic.
2. **Cook the Ground Turkey**: In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until it's browned and fully cooked through, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
##### Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
1. **Add Onion and Garlic**: Once the turkey is cooked, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan.
2. **Saute for Flavor**: Cook for about 5 minutes until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant. This step helps in developing the base flavors of your sauce.
##### Step 3: Incorporate Tomatoes
1. **Add Crushed Tomatoes**: Add a (28 oz) can of crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine.
2. **Stir in Tomato Paste, Oregano, and Basil**: Stir in one tablespoon of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon each of dried oregano and basil, and red pepper flakes if using.
##### Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
1. **Simmer for Flavor Development**: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Allow it to cook for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step helps in melding all the flavors.
2. **Add More Tomatoes (Optional)**: For an even richer flavor, add one cup of fresh or canned diced tomatoes and continue cooking.
##### Step 5: Adjust Seasonings
1. **Taste Test**: Check for seasoning and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
2. **Garnish with Fresh Parsley**: Just before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the sauce to add a pop of color and freshness.
#### Tips for Perfecting Your Sauce:
- **Use Quality Ingredients**: The quality of your tomatoes will significantly impact the taste of your sauce. Choose good-quality canned or fresh tomatoes.
- **Cook Time Matters**: Allowing the sauce to simmer properly is key; this helps in breaking down the vegetables and creating a smooth, flavorful base.
#### Conclusion:
With these simple steps, you can easily create an amazing ground turkey tomato sauce that's perfect for pasta, pizza toppings, or as part of a hearty meal. This recipe not only packs flavor but also provides a nutritious option with lean ground turkey. Enjoy your cooking!