Pasta with Turkey Meat Sauce and Side Salad

Ingredients

• Whole wheat spaghetti 2 cups cooked
• Ground turkey 5 oz
• Marinara sauce 1 cup
• Mixed greens 2 cups
• Olive oil 1 tbsp
• Parmesan cheese 1 tbsp

Method

1. Cook the Spaghetti. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Add a pinch of salt to the boiling water. Add the whole wheat spaghetti and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente (tender but still firm to bite). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
   Tip: Taste the pasta a minute or two before the recommended time to ensure it doesn't overcook.
2. Prepare the Turkey Meat Sauce. While the pasta is cooking, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula and cook until it turns white and is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess liquid if necessary. Then, pour in the marinara sauce and stir to combine. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
   Tip: Use medium heat to avoid burning the meat and to allow the sauce to thicken nicely.
3. Drain the Pasta. Once the spaghetti is cooked, carefully drain it using a colander. Shake gently to remove excess water. You can save a small cup of pasta water if you want to loosen the sauce later.
   Tip: Be careful when handling hot water and steam to avoid burns.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the turkey meat sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a tablespoon of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
   Tip: Toss gently to avoid breaking the spaghetti strands.
5. Prepare the Side Salad. In a bowl, place the mixed greens. Drizzle the olive oil over the greens and toss gently to coat all the leaves evenly. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the salad as a finishing touch.
   Tip: Use fresh, crisp greens for the best texture and flavor.
6. Serve and Enjoy. Divide the pasta with turkey meat sauce between two plates. Serve the mixed greens salad on the side. Optionally, add extra Parmesan cheese or a pinch of black pepper to the pasta if desired.
   Tip: Serve immediately while the pasta is warm and the salad fresh.

Pro tips

• To prevent pasta from sticking, stir it occasionally while cooking.
• Let the turkey cook thoroughly to ensure food safety but avoid overcooking to keep it moist.