Pasta with Turkey and Broccoli

We are on our way to somewhat healthier less costly eating.  I have been trying to cut down on the red meat (I'll be honest - I still love a good steak) by incorporating leaner protein.  We tried this recipe from Real Simple in the past couple of weeks.

Pasta with Turkey and Broccoli

from Real Simple

Ingredients

3/4 pound orecchiette
2 cups broccoli florets
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound ground turkey
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1 teaspoon fennel seed
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
kosher salt
Parmesan, for serving

Steps

1. Cook the pasta according to the package directions, adding the broccoli during the last minute. Drain and return the pasta and broccoli to the pot.
2. Meanwhile, heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the turkey, garlic, fennel seed, and red pepper and cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned, 3 to 5 minutes; season with ½ teaspoon salt.
3. Toss the turkey mixture with the pasta and broccoli and the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil. Serve with Parmesan.

The Final Results

I was surprised at how tasty this turned out.  The turkey was flavorful and the broccoli not to soggy.  I think the fennel seed and the red pepper really made this dish.  I was tricked into thinking I was having sausage with the pasta but it was turkey.  Definitely, try this one out for a quick meal.