July 1, 2026 · 10 min

Lime Quinoa Bowls with Spiced Turkey and Salsa Mexicana

Lunch10 min957 cal / serving

Bowls have become a dinnertime staple for good reason: they’re hearty, flavorful and endlessly versatile. This version features bold, saucy turkey served over a bed of fluffy lime quinoa, topped with fresh salsa and a Southwest-spiced crema. It’s a blissful bowl that’s sure to satisfy.

Ready in just 35 minutes, this recipe brings together zesty lime, smoky spices and creamy sour cream for a balanced, delicious meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels special.


Recipe details

Lunch10 min957 cal / serving2 servings

Nutrition per serving

Calories957 kcalProtein33.5 gFat73.4 gCarbs41.1 gSugar13.2 gFiber5.6 gSodium478 mg

Dietary labels

Gluten-free: yesLactose-free: noDairy-free: no

Allergen check

Gluten / wheat: not detectedMilk / dairy: containsEgg: not detectedFish: not detectedShellfish: not detectedPeanut: not detectedTree nuts: not detectedSoy: not detectedSesame: not detectedMustard: not detectedCelery: not detectedSulphites: not detectedLupin: not detectedMolluscs: not detected

Values are calculated per serving from ingredient amounts and the ingredient nutrition reference per 100g. Allergen and diet labels use available ingredient metadata and name matching; always check product labels for strict diets or allergies. Some ingredient amounts or nutrition values were incomplete, so this is marked as a partial estimate.


Ingredients

Quinoa0.5 cup QuinoaView ingredient guide
Ground Turkey10 ounce Ground TurkeyView ingredient guide
Onion1 unit OnionView ingredient guide
Sour Cream4 tablespoon Sour CreamView ingredient guide
Long Green Pepper1 unit Long Green PepperView ingredient guide
Garlic1 clove GarlicView ingredient guide
Tomato1 unit TomatoView ingredient guide
Lime1 unit LimeView ingredient guide
Tex-Mex Paste1 unit Tex-Mex PasteView ingredient guide
Saltteaspoon (tsp) SaltView ingredient guide
Black Pepperteaspoon (tsp) Black PepperView ingredient guide

Instructions

  1. Cook quinoa according to package directions. Fluff with a fork and stir in the juice of half the lime. Set aside.
  2. While quinoa cooks, dice the onion, mince the garlic and slice the long green pepper into thin rings. Dice the tomato.
  3. In a small bowl, combine sour cream with a pinch of Southwest spice blend (about 1/4 teaspoon) and a squeeze of lime juice. Set aside as the crema.
  4. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Add diced onion and garlic to the turkey. Cook until softened, about 2 minutes. Stir in the Tex-Mex paste and remaining Southwest spice blend. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  6. Add the sliced green pepper and diced tomato to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until peppers are tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. To serve, divide lime quinoa between bowls. Top with the turkey mixture, drizzle with Southwest crema and garnish with any remaining lime wedges.

Recipe Tips

Rinse quinoa before cooking to remove bitterness.

For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne to the turkey mixture.

Let the crema sit for a few minutes to allow flavors to meld.

FAQ

Can I use ground chicken or beef instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken or lean ground beef work well as substitutes.

What can I use instead of Tex-Mex paste?

Mix 2 tablespoons tomato paste with 1 teaspoon chili powder and 1/2 teaspoon cumin as a substitute.

How do I store leftovers?

Store components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently.

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