Grilled Turkey Breast with Steamed Green Beans and Wild Rice

Ingredients

• skinless turkey breast 5 oz
• steamed green beans 1 cup
• wild rice 1/2 cup cooked
• olive oil 1 tbsp
• lemon juice 1 tsp
• garlic powder to taste
• salt to taste
• black pepper to taste

Method

1. Prepare the turkey breast. Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a nice sear during grilling. Then, season both sides evenly with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper according to your taste.
   Tip: Drying the meat well prevents steaming and helps create a golden crust.
2. Preheat the grill or pan. Heat your grill or a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, brush the turkey breast lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking and add flavor.
   Tip: If using a skillet, a cast iron pan works best for even heat distribution.
3. Grill the turkey breast. Place the turkey breast on the grill or skillet. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer if available to check doneness.
   Tip: Avoid pressing down on the turkey while cooking to keep it juicy.
4. Steam the green beans. While the turkey cooks, rinse the green beans and trim the ends. Place them in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for about 5-7 minutes until tender but still crisp.
   Tip: Do not overcook; green beans should remain bright green and slightly firm.
5. Heat the wild rice. If your wild rice is pre-cooked and refrigerated, warm it gently in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through.
   Tip: Cover the rice while heating to retain moisture.
6. Combine and finish. Once the turkey is cooked, remove it from heat and let it rest for 3 minutes to retain juices. Drizzle the lemon juice over the turkey and green beans for a fresh, bright flavor. Plate the turkey breast alongside the steamed green beans and wild rice.
   Tip: Resting the meat is key to juicy results.

Pro tips

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey is safely cooked without drying out.
• Steaming vegetables preserves nutrients and keeps vibrant color and texture.