Light Veggie Pasta with Turkey

Name: Light Veggie Pasta with Turkey
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz whole wheat pasta; 1 lb ground turkey; 1 cup bell peppers, chopped; 1 cup zucchini, diced; 2 cups fresh spinach; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Low Calorie Recipes

I absolutely love making this Light Veggie Pasta with Turkey for an easy weeknight dinner. With a delightful mix of fresh vegetables and lean turkey, this dish comes together in no time. The light olive oil and herbs brighten everything up and create a satisfying yet healthy meal. It's a great way to sneak in more veggies while keeping the flavors vibrant and delicious. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just a few, this recipe will quickly become a favorite at our table.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-04T17:17:28.147Z

When I first made this Light Veggie Pasta with Turkey, I wanted something light yet filling. I used a colorful array of bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach, and the result was a vibrant dish that really excites the palate. I find using ground turkey not only cuts down on calories but also absorbs the flavors of the herbs beautifully. I recommend letting the veggies sauté until they're just tender, as this brings out their natural sweetness.

One tip I discovered is to cook the pasta just until al dente and to reserve some pasta water before draining. Adding a splash of it to the turkey and veggie mixture creates a lovely, silky sauce that ties everything together perfectly. It's an easy technique that elevates the dish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh, vibrant vegetables add color and crunch.
Lean turkey makes it a healthier choice without sacrificing flavor.
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Understanding Your Ingredients

The combination of whole wheat pasta and turkey in this dish not only keeps it light but also adds a nutritional punch. Whole wheat pasta is rich in fiber, which aids digestion and can help keep you feeling full longer. Its slightly nutty flavor contrasts beautifully with the fresh vegetables, creating a dish that feels both satisfying and wholesome.

Using lean ground turkey is key to maintaining a healthier profile for this meal. Turkey is lower in fat compared to other meats, yet still provides a hearty texture. When cooked properly, it absorbs flavors well, particularly the garlic and herbs, ensuring every bite is delicious. If you're looking to switch it up, ground chicken or even a plant-based protein can work as excellent substitutes.

Mastering the Cooking Technique

Timing is crucial when cooking the vegetables and turkey to ensure optimal texture and flavor. Sautéing the garlic for just a minute keeps it aromatic without turning bitter. When adding the turkey, break it into small pieces and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes; this ensures even cooking and enhances flavor. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan, which can cause steaming rather than browning.

You can customize the cooking time for the bell peppers and zucchini based on your preferred level of crunch. If you like them firmer, remove them after 5 minutes; for a more tender result, give them a full 7 minutes. Remember, adding the spinach last helps it retain its vibrant color and nutrients while wilting just enough to blend in without becoming mushy.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

8 oz whole wheat pasta
1 lb ground turkey
1 cup bell peppers, chopped
1 cup zucchini, diced
2 cups fresh spinach
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to wash all vegetables thoroughly before chopping for a clean and healthy meal.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Cook the Turkey

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then add the ground turkey and cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spatula.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the chopped bell peppers and zucchini, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they start to soften. Add the fresh spinach and cook until it wilts.

Combine and Season

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the turkey and veggies. Stir in the Italian seasoning, reserved pasta water, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.

Serve

Serve warm, garnished with additional herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy Light Veggie Pasta with Turkey!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute any of the vegetables based on what you have on hand
broccoli or asparagus would work great too.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Light Veggie Pasta with Turkey can easily be prepared ahead of time, making it a fantastic meal prep option. After cooking, let the dish cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. If you're planning to freeze it, do so before adding any cheese or extras, as the texture may change upon reheating.

When you're ready to enjoy the meal, simply reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of olive oil or additional pasta water to ensure it doesn't dry out. Stir occasionally until heated through. This method helps preserve the flavors and the vegetables' freshness.

Serving Suggestions

For a burst of flavor and presentation, consider garnishing your pasta with fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, creamy element that complements the dish perfectly. If you're feeling adventurous, a squeeze of lemon juice enhances the brightness of the vegetables and turkey, tying all the flavors together.

To make this meal even more filling, pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty whole grain bread. This not only rounds out the meal but also gives you additional opportunities to incorporate more veggies. For a twist, try serving the pasta chilled as a pasta salad; just add in some cherry tomatoes and a light vinaigrette.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this pasta gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta and the dish will still be delicious.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I use a different protein instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken or even a plant-based meat substitute would work well.

→ Is this dish good for meal prep?

Yes! This pasta reheats well, making it great for meal prepping lunches or dinners.