Turkey and Spinach Manicotti

Did you know that spinach offers a host of nutrients including vitamins A, C and iron to name a few. Iron helps transport oxygen to red blood cells to prevent anemia. And all of that is good for your heart which is perfect because this month is heart health month.  Give this recipe a try, its delicious, easy and is good for your heart!

Turkey and Spinach Manicotti
Prep time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

8 uncooked manicotti pasta shells
1/2 pound lean (at least 90%) ground turkey
1 medium onion chopped (1/2 cup)
2 tsp finely chopped garlic
1 cup fat-free ricotta cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 box frozen cut spinach, thawed, squeeze to drain
1 1/2 cups pasta sauce, any flavor, or marinara sauce
2 T finely grated Parmesan cheese

Heat oven to 375.  Spray 11X7 inch baking dish with cooking spray.  Cook pasta shells as directed on box, omitting sauce.  Rinse with cool water, drain well.

In a medium skillet cook turkey, garlic and onion over medium heat, about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until turkey is no longer pink. Remove from heat and stir in ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning and spinach. 

Spoon turkey mixture into shells; arrange in baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce over shells. Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

*Look for pasta sauce containing less than 300 mg sodium per 1/2-cup serving.

*For fresh herb flavor, use a combination of 1 to 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil, oregano, thyme and Italian parsley for the dried Italian seasoning.

Source: Live Better America