Are you ready to indulge in a deliciously guilt-free twist on a classic Latin dish? Say hello to Guilt Free Pastelon Sweet Plantain Lasagna, where layers of sweet plantains meet savory ground turkey in a mouthwatering combination that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy! This recipe not only satisfies your cravings but also keeps your health goals in check, making it the perfect meal for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of love, you can create a hearty dish that serves six and is sure to impress family and friends alike. Dive into this culinary adventure and discover how easy it is to make a lasagna that’s both nutritious and utterly delicious!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe plantains
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup low-fat cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly spraying it with cooking spray.
- Peel the ripe plantains and slice them lengthwise into thin, even strips approximately 1/4 inch thick. These will serve as the "lasagna noodles" for the dish.
- In a large skillet, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, minced garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until the meat is fully browned and no pink remains, approximately 7-8 minutes.
- Stir in cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour in tomato sauce and simmer the mixture for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Begin layering the pastelon by placing a layer of plantain strips on the bottom of the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping them to cover the entire surface.
- Spread half of the seasoned ground turkey mixture over the plantain layer. Sprinkle half of the low-fat cheese on top.
- Add another layer of plantain strips, followed by the remaining turkey mixture and cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the cheese to become golden and slightly crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the pastelon rest for 10 minutes before serving. This will help the layers set and make cutting easier.
- Slice into 6 equal portions and serve hot. Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro or a side salad for added nutrition.
Tips
- Choose Ripe Plantains: For the best flavor and sweetness, make sure to use ripe plantains that have turned yellow with some black spots. They will caramelize beautifully during baking, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
- Layering Technique: When layering your pastelon, ensure that the plantain strips slightly overlap to create a sturdy base. This will help hold the filling together and make for easier serving.
- Customize Your Filling: Feel free to experiment with the ground turkey by adding your favorite spices or vegetables. You can also substitute with ground chicken or beef if you prefer.
- Cheese Options: While low-fat cheese keeps this dish guilt-free, you can mix in a little bit of your favorite cheese for added flavor. Just remember to keep the portions moderate.
- Rest Before Serving: Allowing the pastelon to rest for 10 minutes after baking is crucial. This helps the layers set, making it easier to slice and serve without falling apart.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Consider garnishing your pastelon with fresh cilantro or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a refreshing touch that complements the dish perfectly.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 75mg
