10 Ideas For Ground Turkey: Say Goodbye to the Bland Burger

Believe it or not, I've actually stuck to my New Year's resolution. All three of them. 

#1: To watch more movies with film master Bryan (check!).

#2: To lose a few lbs by drinking less and eating healthier (check!). 

#3: To find creative ways to incorporate healthy food into our diets long-term (almost check?). 

Flipping through the pages of Real Simple Magazine this week, I found an article that seemed written for the Bishop household (and for resolution #3): 10 ideas for ground turkey. Ground turkey is a staple in many of Bryan's and my meals, but it's beyond easy for us to get bored of it. Like really, really bored. "Turkey-burger-three-nights-a-week" bored. So as it often happens in my life, Real Simple came to my turkey dilemma rescue. I liked the creative-yet-simple suggestions so much I couldn't resist sharing them, especially for those who might find themselves in the same "turkey rut." So check out the 10 creative dishes below, complete with recipe links. We can't wait to make the Turkey Chorizo Tacos, Turkey Feta Flatbread and Turkey Fried Rice. If you make any of them, let me know your thoughts!

#1: Pasta with Turkey and Broccoli
Liven up a basic pasta recipe with aromatic fennel seed, garlic, and crushed red pepper.

#2: Turkey Empanadas
Raisins and olives tucked inside give these tasty pastry pockets an unexpected touch of briny sweetness.

#3: Turkey Meat Loaf with Mashed Potatoes and Green Beans
Ground turkey lightens up this comfort-food classic; top with barbecue sauce instead of ketchup if you prefer a smoky flavor.






















#4: Turkey Sloppy Joes with Cole Slaw
A mix of tomato sauce, barbecue sauce, and Worcestershire ensures the sandwich is juicy and flavorful.























#5: Turkey-Barley Vegetable Soup
Add the spinach just before serving to preserve its bright color and fresh flavor.

#6: Turkey Chorizo Tacos
Chopped spicy Spanish sausage perks up mild ground turkey.



#7: Eggs with Turkey Breakfast Sausage and Fruit
Make your own delicious sausage patties in minutes by combining ground turkey with maple syrup, sage, and thyme.





















#8: Turkey Fried Rice
Chock-full of colorful veggies, this dish gets a boost from hoisin sauce and rice vinegar.






















#9: Turkey and Feta Flat Bread
Dress up plain pizza dough with browned turkey, roasted red peppers, Feta, and oregano.

#10: Thai Turkey Salad
Crispy, crunchy, sweet, and tart, this salad will surprise you with its range of flavors and textures.