Sweet & Savory Turkey and Veggie Meal Prep Bowl

• 1 cup brown rice, uncooked
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the brown rice according to package instructions. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 3 minutes until translucent.
3. Add garlic, diced red bell pepper, and zucchini to the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes until vegetables are tender but still crisp.
4. Push the veggies to the side of the skillet and add the ground turkey. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until fully browned, about 6-7 minutes.
5. Season the turkey and veggies with smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup and balsamic vinegar. Pour this glaze over the turkey and veggies in the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring frequently to coat evenly.
7. Divide the cooked brown rice evenly among 4 meal prep containers. Top each portion with the turkey and veggie mixture.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Let cool completely before sealing containers and refrigerating. Enjoy chilled or reheat when ready to eat.

Chef tips

• Use ground chicken or lean ground beef as substitutes for ground turkey based on preference or availability.
• If you prefer a vegetarian option, swap the turkey with cooked lentils or crumbled firm tofu.
• Add a handful of baby spinach or kale to the skillet for extra greens—stir in at the end until wilted.
• Maple balsamic glaze can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week to speed up meal prep.