Save Skinny Spicy Turkey Lettuce Tacos with Mango Slaw offer a vibrant and light alternative to traditional tacos. These lean ground turkey tacos are served in crisp lettuce leaves and topped with a refreshing, tangy mango slaw, making them a flavor-packed meal perfect for any night of the week.
Save This fusion of Mexican-inspired spices and sweet, tropical mango creates a balanced dish that is as colorful as it is delicious. The combination of warm, spicy turkey and chilled, crunchy slaw provides a satisfying texture in every bite.
Ingredients
- Turkey Filling: 1 lb lean ground turkey, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 small red onion (diced), 2 garlic cloves (minced), 1 jalapeño (seeded and chopped), 1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp ground coriander, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth, juice of 1/2 lime.
- Mango Slaw: 1 large ripe mango (julienned), 1 cup shredded red cabbage, 1/2 cup shredded carrots, 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, 2 green onions (sliced), juice of 1 lime, 1 tbsp honey or agave syrup, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1/2 tsp salt.
- For Serving: 12 large butter or romaine lettuce leaves, lime wedges, and extra cilantro.
Instructions
- Step 1
- Prepare the Mango Slaw by combining mango, cabbage, carrots, cilantro, and green onions. Whisk together lime juice, honey, rice vinegar, and salt, then toss with the slaw and refrigerate.
- Step 2
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Sauté the red onion for 2 minutes, then add garlic and jalapeño for another minute.
- Step 3
- Add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook for 5–6 minutes until no longer pink.
- Step 4
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, salt, pepper, and tomato paste.
- Step 5
- Pour in the chicken broth and cook for 3–4 minutes until thickened. Stir in lime juice and remove from heat.
- Step 6
- Spoon the turkey mixture into the lettuce leaves and top generously with the prepared mango slaw.
- Step 7
- Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges as desired and serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Use a large skillet to ensure the turkey cooks evenly. It is important to wash and thoroughly pat dry the lettuce leaves to ensure they are crisp enough to hold the filling without tearing.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can substitute ground chicken for the turkey if preferred. For those who enjoy more heat, add an extra jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce. To make this recipe vegan, swap the turkey for crumbled tofu or lentils and use maple syrup instead of honey in the slaw dressing.
Serviervorschläge
Present these tacos on a large platter with extra lime wedges and fresh cilantro sprigs on the side. They pair beautifully with a light side of black beans or a simple quinoa salad.
Save These Skinny Spicy Turkey Lettuce Tacos with Mango Slaw are a delicious way to enjoy a healthy, low-carb dinner that doesn't compromise on bold, fresh flavors.
Recipe Guide
- → Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, ground chicken works beautifully as a substitute. It has a similar lean profile and mild flavor that absorbs the spices just as well. Adjust cooking time slightly if needed to ensure it's fully cooked through.
- → How do I pick a ripe mango for the slaw?
Choose a mango that yields slightly to gentle pressure, similar to an avocado. The skin should have a golden-yellow or red blush depending on variety. Avoid mangoes that are rock-hard or have soft, sunken spots.
- → What lettuce works best for these tacos?
Butter lettuce (Boston or Bibb) is ideal because its cup-shaped leaves naturally hold fillings well. Romaine hearts also work—their sturdy spine provides structure and crunch. Iceberg can be too brittle and prone to cracking.
- → Can I make the mango slaw ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare the slaw up to 4 hours ahead, but wait to add the dressing until 30 minutes before serving to keep the vegetables crisp. Store dressed slaw in the refrigerator and toss again before assembling.
- → How can I make this dish vegan?
Replace the ground turkey with crumbled firm tofu, cooked lentils, or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Swap honey in the slaw for maple syrup or agave. The spice blend and cooking method remain the same.
- → What sides pair well with these tacos?
Cilantro-lime rice, roasted sweet potato wedges, or a simple black bean salad complement the flavors beautifully. For extra freshness, serve with sliced avocado or guacamole on the side.