Lean Turkey Bolognese
Lean Turkey Bolognese is a lighter, modern twist on the classic Italian ragù, traditionally made with ground beef or pork. This version uses lean ground turkey simmered with a base of finely chopped vegetables like carrots, celery, onions, and tomatoes for a rich, savory sauce. It's typically served over pasta, such as spaghetti or tagliatelle, and is a popular weeknight meal in many Western households.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is a well-balanced, high-protein meal, with the turkey providing lean protein and the vegetable base adding fiber and essential vitamins. A typical serving (about 1.5 cups of sauce with pasta) contains roughly 400-500 calories, with moderate carbohydrates from the pasta and low fat compared to traditional versions.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbs | 15 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 7 g |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
| Potassium | 650 mg |
| Vitamin A | 80 mcg RAE |
| Vitamin C | 15 mg |
| Calcium | 60 mg |
| Iron | 3.5 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.5 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 8 mg |
| Zinc | 4 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Nutritionally, it's a clever way to boost vegetable intake in a familiar, comforting format. Culturally, it represents the global adaptation of Italian cuisine, where classic recipes are often modified to suit local ingredients and health trends, like using turkey for a leaner protein source.
