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Turkey Patties with a Side of Roasted Parsnips and Thyme – A Tasty Weight Loss Recipe

Last Updated on January 12, 2025 by Arif Chowdhury

Looking for a delicious yet healthy meal option that won’t leave you feeling deprived? Say hello to turkey patties paired with roasted parsnips and thyme!

This delightful dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also aligns beautifully with your weight loss goals.

Ground turkey is a lean source of protein, while parsnips add a sweet, earthy flavor that makes for a perfect side. Get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as nutritious as it is tasty!

Why Choose Turkey Patties?

Turkey is often celebrated as a go-to protein in weight loss recipes, and for good reason! According to the USDA, 3 ounces of cooked ground turkey contains approximately 22 grams of protein and only 7 grams of fat.

Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and repair, and it helps keep you feeling full longer. A high-protein diet can support weight loss by reducing overall calorie intake, as reported by the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

The Benefits of Parsnips

Parsnips might not be as widely recognized as their carrot cousins, but they are equally nutritious and delicious.

Rich in fiber and vitamins C, K, and E, parsnips are a fantastic addition to a weight-loss-friendly diet. One cup of cooked parsnips contains about 55 calories and 5 grams of fiber, making them a satisfying side that can help keep you full.

Plus, the natural sweetness of roasted parsnips can satisfy those cravings for something sweet without reaching for sugary snacks.

Recipe Overview

Before we dive into the cooking process, here’s a quick summary of what you’ll be making:

  • Main Dish: Turkey Patties
  • Side: Roasted Parsnips with Thyme
  • Servings: 4
  • Total Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour

Ingredients

For the Turkey Patties:

  • 1 pound ground turkey (preferably lean)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (whole wheat for added fiber)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

For the Roasted Parsnips:

  • 4 medium parsnips, peeled and cut into sticks
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • Optional: a drizzle of honey for added sweetness

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s get cooking!

Step 1: Prepare the Roasted Parsnips (30 minutes)

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • In a large bowl, toss the peeled and cut parsnips with olive oil, salt, pepper, and thyme until well coated.
  • Spread the parsnips in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure they have space to roast evenly.
  • Roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are golden brown and tender. If you like them a bit sweeter, you can drizzle a little honey over them during the last 5 minutes of roasting.

Step 2: Make the Turkey Patties (20 minutes)

  • While the parsnips are roasting, prepare the turkey patties. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and beaten egg. Mix until just combined; be careful not to over-mix.
  • Form the mixture into patties—you should get about 4-6, depending on your preferred size.
  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the turkey patties.
  • Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 3: Serve and Enjoy (5 minutes)

  • Once both the turkey patties and roasted parsnips are ready, plate them together.
  • Garnish with fresh thyme or additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
  • Serve hot, and enjoy the delicious flavors and satisfying textures!

Serving Suggestions

This dish is fantastic on its own, but if you want to elevate your meal even further, consider serving it with a side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad will complement the savory turkey patties and the sweet roasted parsnips beautifully.

Nutritional Value

One serving of turkey patties with roasted parsnips provides a well-balanced meal with approximately:

  • Calories: 350-400 (depending on the amount of oil and cheese used)
  • Protein: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fat: 15g

This dish is not only filling but also supports your weight loss journey by keeping your calories in check while providing essential nutrients.

Tips for Success

  • Customize Your Patties: Feel free to add other herbs or spices to the turkey mixture, such as paprika or cumin, for a flavor twist.
  • Make Them Ahead: You can prepare the patties in advance and store them in the fridge. Just cook them when you’re ready to eat.
  • Experiment with Vegetables: You can roast other vegetables alongside the parsnips, like carrots or Brussels sprouts, for added variety and nutrition.

The Versatility of This Meal

One of the best things about this turkey patties and roasted parsnips recipe is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Want to make it gluten-free?

Swap out the breadcrumbs for ground oats or almond flour. Craving a kick of heat? Add some red pepper flakes to the turkey mixture. The sky’s the limit!

Conclusion

Turkey patties with a side of roasted parsnips and thyme offer a delightful way to enjoy a healthy, satisfying meal without sacrificing flavor. This recipe showcases how nutritious ingredients can come together to create something truly special.

So, next time you’re in search of a delicious dish that supports your weight loss journey, give this one a try. You might just find a new favorite meal that makes you look forward to dinner!