Cliobra

Turkey Breast Wrapped in Collard Greens and Baked with Lemon – A Weight Loss Recipe

Last Updated on January 14, 2025 by Arif Chowdhury

When it comes to healthy eating, finding delicious yet nutritious recipes can feel like a challenge. But what if we told you that you could enjoy a mouthwatering dish that supports your weight loss goals?

Enter the delightful Turkey Breast Wrapped in Collard Greens and Baked with Lemon.

This recipe is not only low in calories but also bursting with flavor, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to shed a few pounds without sacrificing taste.

Why Choose Collard Greens?

Collard greens are often overlooked in the vegetable aisle, but they are a nutritional powerhouse. Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, these leafy greens also provide a good dose of calcium and fiber.

Did you know that a cup of cooked collard greens contains just 63 calories but provides an impressive 5 grams of fiber?

This means they can help keep you full longer, making them a great ally in your weight loss journey.

Statistically, incorporating more leafy greens into your diet can help reduce the risk of obesity. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that individuals who consumed greater amounts of leafy greens had an 11% lower risk of obesity.

So, let’s dive into this delicious recipe that showcases these wonderful greens!

Ingredients: What You’ll Need

Before we get cooking, let’s gather our ingredients. This recipe serves 4 people and takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish.

For the Turkey and Collard Greens:

  • 1 pound of ground turkey breast (lean)
  • 8 large collard green leaves
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Juice of 1 lemon

For Baking:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • Fresh herbs (e.g., thyme or parsley) for garnish

Preparing Your Dish

Step 1: Prepping the Collard Greens (15 minutes)

  • Wash the collard greens thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or grit.
  • Trim the stems of the collard greens to make them easier to roll. You want the leaves to be pliable.
  • Blanch the leaves: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the collard greens. Boil for about 2-3 minutes until they are vibrant green and slightly tender. Drain and plunge them into an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This step helps maintain their bright color and crunchy texture.

Step 2: Preparing the Turkey Filling (15 minutes)

  • In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed onion and garlic with the ground turkey, paprika, cumin, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Wrapping the Turkey (15 minutes)

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Take one collard green leaf and place about 2-3 tablespoons of the turkey mixture near the base of the leaf.
  • Roll the leaf over the filling, tucking in the sides as you go to create a neat package. Repeat this process with the remaining leaves and turkey mixture.
  • Place the wrapped collard greens seam-side down in a baking dish.

Step 4: Baking (30 minutes)

  • Pour the chicken broth around the collard greens in the baking dish. This will keep them moist while they bake.
  • Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the top of the wrapped greens for a zesty kick.
  • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 20 minutes.
  • After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the tops to brown slightly.

Step 5: Serving (5 minutes)

  • Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
  • Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for added flavor and color.
  • Serve warm and enjoy!

The Nutritional Benefits

This Turkey Breast Wrapped in Collard Greens and Baked with Lemon is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits:

  • Lean Protein: Turkey breast is a fantastic source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. Consuming protein can also increase feelings of fullness, aiding in weight management.
  • Low Calorie: Each serving of this dish contains approximately 300 calories, making it a satisfying option without the extra calories.
  • High Fiber: The collard greens add a good amount of fiber to your meal, which is important for digestive health and can help control hunger pangs.

Making it Your Own

The beauty of cooking is that you can always put your twist on a recipe! Here are a few ideas to customize your Turkey Breast Wrapped in Collard Greens:

  • Spice it Up: If you enjoy a kick of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the turkey mixture.
  • Vegetable Boost: Want to sneak in more veggies? Finely chop some carrots or bell peppers and mix them into the turkey filling for added nutrients and sweetness.
  • Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like dill or oregano to change up the flavor profile.

Enjoying Your Healthy Creation

This Turkey Breast Wrapped in Collard Greens and Baked with Lemon Weight Loss Recipe is a delicious way to enjoy a nutritious meal without feeling deprived. Not only does it deliver on flavor, but it also supports your health and weight loss goals.

Plus, it’s a fantastic option for meal prepping—simply double the recipe for a week’s worth of healthy lunches or dinners!

Ready to impress your family and friends with this vibrant dish? Share it with them and let them enjoy the delights of healthy eating too. Bon appétit!