Stuffed Collard Greens (with Turkey and Quinoa)

Stuffed Collard Greens with turkey and quinoa are a delightful twist on traditional cabbage rolls, offering a hearty, nutritious meal perfect for any occasion. These flavorful greens are not only packed with protein but also provide a spicy kick that elevates your dinner experience. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply looking for a wholesome weeknight dish, this recipe will surely impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with lean turkey and quinoa, these stuffed collard greens are filling and nutritious.
• Flavorful Twist: The combination of spices and fresh vegetables brings a unique taste to your dinner table.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in under two hours.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy as a main dish or pair them with your favorite sides for an impressive spread.
• Great for Meal Prep: These rolls store well in the fridge, making them perfect for leftovers or meal planning.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making these delicious Stuffed Collard Greens, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment on hand will streamline the cooking process and ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Baking dish (8 x 11 inch or larger)
• Tongs
• Pot for boiling water
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking the turkey and vegetables evenly without overcrowding.
• Baking dish: Perfectly fits your stuffed collard greens while allowing enough space for even heating.
• Tongs: Essential for handling hot collard leaves without tearing them.

Ingredients

To make these delicious Stuffed Collard Greens (with Turkey and Quinoa), you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 pound (454 grams) lean ground turkey
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 large leek, chopped (see note)
• 1 medium-sized onion, chopped
• 1/2 large red pepper, seeded and chopped
• 1/2 jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped
• 2 cups no-salt added tomato sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 10 large collard green leaves, washed, stems removed, and trimmed (see tips above)
• 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese (optional)

How to Make Stuffed Collard Greens (with Turkey and Quinoa)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Grease an baking dish that is at least 8 x 11 inches to prepare it for the stuffed greens.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Mixture

In a large skillet:
* Heat the olive oil over medium heat.
* Add in the ground turkey, kosher salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Cook until the turkey is nearly done.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Next:
* Stir in the chopped leek, onion, red pepper, and jalapeño.
* Cover the skillet and continue cooking until both the turkey is fully cooked and vegetables are soft.

Step 4: Prepare Tomato Sauce

In a small bowl:
* Combine tomato sauce with dried basil, oregano, and additional kosher salt. Mix well.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Add:
* Pour in three-fourths of the prepared tomato sauce into the turkey mixture along with cooked quinoa. Stir everything together thoroughly.

Step 6: Prepare Collard Greens

Boil:
* Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil.
* Add collard green leaves and cook for about 5–7 minutes until tender yet bright green.

Step 7: Drain Greens

Carefully:
* Use tongs to remove cooked greens from boiling water.
* Place them on a flat surface and pat dry with paper towels.

Step 8: Roll Collard Greens

For each leaf:
* Place about three to four tablespoons of turkey mixture at its center.
* Fold over the top of the leaf over the filling. Fold in sides and continue rolling tightly until reaching the stem end. Repeat with all leaves.

Step 9: Arrange in Baking Dish

Place:
* The rolled collard greens seam-side down in your greased baking dish.
* Pour remaining tomato sauce over rolls; sprinkle cheese on top if desired.

Step 10: Bake

Cover:
* The baking dish with foil and bake in preheated oven for about 35–40 minutes. Serve hot!

Step 11: Store Leftovers

Store any remaining rolls in an airtight container in your refrigerator. Enjoy within three to four days!

How to Serve Stuffed Collard Greens (with Turkey and Quinoa)

Stuffed collard greens with turkey and quinoa are a delicious and nutritious meal that can be served in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with a Side Salad

• A fresh green salad adds crunch and complements the flavors of the stuffed collard greens. Consider using mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.

Serve with Whole Grain Bread

• Whole grain bread is great for soaking up any extra tomato sauce. Opt for a rustic loaf or whole wheat rolls for added fiber.

Add a Yogurt Sauce

• A dollop of yogurt sauce can provide creaminess and a refreshing tang. Mix plain yogurt with lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for an easy dip.

Offer Lemon Wedges

• Squeezing fresh lemon juice over the rolls just before eating enhances the flavor profile and adds brightness to the dish.

Include Spicy Condiments

• For those who enjoy heat, serve with hot sauce or red pepper flakes on the side. This allows everyone to customize their spice level.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro on top before serving for an attractive presentation and added freshness.

How to Perfect Stuffed Collard Greens (with Turkey and Quinoa)

Creating perfectly stuffed collard greens takes practice but can be achieved easily with these tips.

• Choose Fresh Greens: Select vibrant, large collard leaves without browning or wilting. Fresh leaves are easier to roll and provide better flavor.

• Cook Quinoa Well: Make sure your quinoa is cooked properly – fluffy and not mushy. This helps maintain texture in your filling.

• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning in your turkey mixture. Proper seasoning will elevate the overall taste of your stuffed collard greens.

• Adjust Cooking Time: Keep an eye on cooking time in the oven; overcooking may lead to soggy greens. Aim for just tender leaves.

• Use Enough Filling: Be generous when adding filling to each leaf, but ensure you can still roll them without tearing.

• Let Them Rest: Allow the cooked rolls to sit for a few minutes after baking before serving; this helps flavors meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Collard Greens (with Turkey and Quinoa)

To create a well-rounded meal, consider pairing your stuffed collard greens with these tasty side dishes.

1. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese complements the main dish while keeping it healthy.

2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies like carrots and zucchini add color and nutrition to your plate.

3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort alongside the savory rolls.

4. Cucumber Raita: A cooling cucumber raita made from yogurt is perfect for balancing out spices in the stuffed collard greens.

5. Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast to savory flavors and are always a hit.

6. Cornbread Muffins: Soft cornbread muffins provide sweetness that pairs nicely with hearty meals like this one.

7. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with olive oil adds elegance and lightness to your meal.

8. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate after enjoying rich stuffed collard greens.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making stuffed collard greens can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the washing step: Always wash your collard greens thoroughly before using them. This helps remove any dirt and grit that could affect the taste.
• Overcooking the turkey: Cook the turkey just until it’s no longer pink. Overcooking can make it dry and less flavorful.
• Neglecting seasoning: Don’t skip on the seasoning! Properly seasoning each layer adds depth to your stuffed collard greens.
• Not trimming stems properly: Make sure to trim the thick stems of collard leaves. This will make rolling easier and prevent tearing.
• Using cold filling: Let your filling cool slightly before stuffing. Cold filling can tear the leaves or make rolling difficult.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They can last in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Stuffed Collard Greens (with Turkey and Quinoa)

• Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Stuffed Collard Greens (with Turkey and Quinoa)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water to steam them gently as they warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Stuffed Collard Greens (with Turkey and Quinoa)?

Stuffed collard greens with turkey and quinoa are nutritious rolls made from collard green leaves filled with seasoned turkey meat and quinoa, making them a hearty meal.

Can I customize the stuffing?

Yes! You can add different vegetables, herbs, or even switch out turkey for chicken or beef according to your taste preference.

How do I know when my collard greens are cooked?

They should be tender and bright green after boiling for 5-7 minutes. If they remain tough, cook them a bit longer.

Are there any alternatives to quinoa?

Absolutely! You can substitute quinoa with rice, couscous, or even lentils if you prefer a different grain or legume.

Final Thoughts

Stuffed collard greens with turkey and quinoa offer a delightful mix of flavors and textures that make dinner exciting. Their versatility allows you to customize the fillings based on your preferences. Whether you’re looking for a healthy dinner option or a fun twist on traditional rolls, these stuffed greens are sure to impress!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Stuffed Collard Greens with Turkey and Quinoa

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Stuffed Collard Greens with Turkey and Quinoa offer a nutritious twist on traditional rolls, making them an excellent choice for a hearty meal. These vibrant greens are filled with lean turkey, protein-rich quinoa, and flavorful spices, creating a satisfying dish that delights the palate. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe is easy to follow and results in tender, tasty rolls that everyone will love. Plus, they’re great for meal prep, storing well for quick and healthy lunches throughout the week.

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Ingredients

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• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 pound lean ground turkey
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 large leek, chopped
• 1 medium-sized onion, chopped
• 1/2 large red pepper, seeded and chopped
• 1/2 jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped
• 2 cups no-salt added tomato sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 10 large collard green leaves, washed, stems removed, and trimmed
• 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat; cook ground turkey with garlic powder and seasonings until browned.
3. Add chopped vegetables; cover and cook until softened.
4. Mix tomato sauce with herbs in a bowl; combine three-fourths of the sauce with turkey mixture and cooked quinoa.
5. Boil collard greens in water until tender; drain and pat dry.
6. Place filling in each leaf, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
7. Pour remaining sauce over rolls; cover with foil and bake for 35-40 minutes.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 70mg