Turkey Tacos with Watermelon Slaw

Turkey tacos are not just another trendy dish; they represent a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional beef tacos that are often laden with excess fat. By swapping out ground beef for lean ground turkey, you retain the heartiness and satisfaction of a classic taco while significantly reducing the calorie count. This makes turkey tacos an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor. When you pair these savory turkey tacos with a refreshing watermelon slaw, the result is a vibrant, colorful dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or even festive occasions.

Turkey Tacos with Watermelon Slaw

Discover the delightful world of turkey tacos with watermelon slaw, a healthier and flavorful twist on traditional tacos. Made with lean ground turkey, seasoned to perfection, these tacos are both satisfying and nutritious. The vibrant watermelon slaw, featuring crunchy red cabbage and fresh herbs, adds a refreshing contrast that elevates your meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this recipe combines heartiness with health, ensuring everyone enjoys a delicious bite. Get ready to impress with this colorful dish that brings summer flavors to your table all year round!

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Ingredients

For the Turkey Tacos:

1 lb ground turkey

1 tbsp olive oil

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp chili powder

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp smoked paprika

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

8 small corn or flour tortillas

Fresh cilantro, roughly chopped, for garnish

Lime wedges, for squeezing

For the Watermelon Slaw:

2 cups watermelon, diced and seeds removed

1 cup red cabbage, finely shredded

1/2 cup carrots, grated

1/4 cup red onion, very thinly sliced

1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional for heat)

1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

1 tbsp honey or maple syrup

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Watermelon Slaw:

- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced watermelon, shredded red cabbage, grated carrots, sliced red onion, chopped jalapeño (if using), and fresh mint.

- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper until smooth and well blended.

- Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture. Using a spatula or your hands, toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Cook the Turkey:

- Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté until it turns translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.

- Stir in the minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute, until fragrant.

- Add the ground turkey to the skillet, followed by the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the turkey is browned and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.

Warm the Tortillas:

- While the turkey is cooking, warm the tortillas in a separate pan over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side, or alternatively, wrap them in foil and place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

Assemble the Tacos:

- Arrange the warmed tortillas on a serving platter. Spoon a generous portion of the seasoned turkey mixture onto the center of each tortilla.

- Top each taco with a generous helping of watermelon slaw, and finish with a sprinkling of fresh cilantro for an eye-catching touch.

Serve:

- Serve the tacos immediately, accompanied by lime wedges for drizzling. The zesty lime juice elevates the dish, making it refreshingly flavorful. Enjoy your vibrant and delightful Turkey Tacos with Watermelon Slaw!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

20 minutes | 35 minutes | 4 servings