High Protein Thanksgiving Recipes for a Guilt-Free Feast

Oktober 29, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite times of the year! It’s all about gathering with family, sharing stories, and of course, indulging in delicious food. But let’s be real—after all that turkey and stuffing, I often feel like I need a nap! That’s why I love making high protein Thanksgiving recipes like this one. They not only taste amazing but also help keep me feeling energized and satisfied.

This recipe features a juicy turkey breast paired with a hearty quinoa and black bean mixture, and I can’t get enough of it. The addition of Greek yogurt adds a creamy touch that elevates the whole dish. Plus, it’s packed with protein, making it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy a festive meal without compromising on nutrition. Trust me, your guests won’t even realize they’re eating something so healthy!

Ingredients List

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Turkey breast: 2 lbs, skinless and boneless for a juicy, tender result.
Quinoa: 1 cup, rinsed to remove any bitterness; this will be your protein-packed base.
Black beans: 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed; they add a lovely creaminess and fiber.
Greek yogurt: 1 cup, plain; this will be dolloped on top for that creamy goodness!
Spinach: 3 cups, fresh; it wilts beautifully and adds a pop of color and nutrients.
Almonds: 1/2 cup, chopped; for that delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
Olive oil: 2 tbsp; for sautéing and adding richness.
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced; because garlic makes everything better!
Onion: 1 medium, chopped; this will add sweetness and depth to your dish.
Salt: to taste; don’t be shy, season well!
Pepper: to taste; freshly cracked for that little kick.

Every ingredient here plays a key role in making this a high protein Thanksgiving delight. You’ll love how they come together to create a dish that’s not only nutritious but absolutely bursting with flavor!

How to Prepare Instructions

Preheat your oven: First things first, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is going to give your turkey that perfect roast.
Season the turkey: Take your 2 lbs of turkey breast and sprinkle it generously with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy! This is where you build flavor right from the start.
Bake the turkey: Place the seasoned turkey breast in a baking dish, and pop it into the preheated oven. Let it bake for about 1 hour. You want it to be juicy and cooked through, so if you have a meat thermometer, aim for 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.
Cook the quinoa: While the turkey is roasting, grab your 1 cup of quinoa and cook it according to the package instructions. Usually, it’s a simple 2:1 water-to-quinoa ratio—bring it to a boil, then cover and simmer for about 15 minutes until fluffy. This will be your hearty base!
Sauté the aromatics: In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes. Oh, the smell is heavenly!
Wilt the spinach: Add the 3 cups of fresh spinach to the skillet. Stir it around until it wilts down, which should take just a couple of minutes. You’ll see it shrink, and that’s when you know it’s ready!
Mix everything together: In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, drained black beans, and sautéed spinach mixture. Give it a good stir to mix everything together. This colorful medley is packed with nutrients!
Serve it up: Once the turkey is done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it. Serve the turkey slices alongside your quinoa mixture, and don’t forget to add a generous dollop of Greek yogurt on top for that creamy finish.
Garnish: Finally, sprinkle the chopped almonds over the dish for that delightful crunch. Wow, just look at that plate!

And there you have it! A simple yet delicious high protein Thanksgiving recipe that your family will adore. Enjoy every bite, and feel great knowing you’re fueling your body with wholesome goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

High Protein Content: With 40 grams of protein per serving, this dish is a fantastic way to fuel your body and keep you feeling full.
Easy Preparation: This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any fancy techniques, making it perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
Delicious Flavors: The combination of savory turkey, nutty quinoa, and creamy Greek yogurt creates a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist.
Colorful Presentation: The vibrant colors of spinach, black beans, and almonds make for a beautiful centerpiece on your Thanksgiving table.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to mix and match with whatever veggies or grains you have on hand to make it your own!
Wholesome Nutrition: Packed with vitamins and minerals, it’s a guilt-free indulgence that won’t weigh you down after your holiday feast.

Trust me, this recipe is a winner for any Thanksgiving gathering. It brings together health and flavor in the most delightful way!

Tips for Success

To make sure your high protein Thanksgiving dish turns out absolutely perfect, here are some handy tips I’ve picked up over the years:

Don’t Overcook the Turkey: Keep an eye on the turkey as it bakes. Using a meat thermometer is a game-changer—when it hits 165°F (74°C), it’s done! Overcooked turkey can be dry, and we definitely want to avoid that.
Rinse the Quinoa: Make sure to rinse your quinoa thoroughly before cooking. This removes any residual saponins that can give it a bitter taste. A quick rinse under cold water does the trick!
Seasoning is Key: Taste as you go! Once you mix the quinoa, black beans, and spinach, taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if needed. A little extra salt or a squeeze of lemon can elevate the flavors.
Let the Turkey Rest: After baking, let the turkey rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for a juicier, tastier bite when you cut into it.
Customize Your Veggies: If you have other vegetables on hand that you love, feel free to toss them in! Bell peppers, zucchini, or even some roasted sweet potatoes can add great flavor and texture.
Watch Your Cooking Times: If you’re making this for a crowd and cooking multiple turkey breasts, be mindful that larger pieces may take longer to cook. Adjust your baking time accordingly.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to impressing your family and friends with a delicious, high protein Thanksgiving meal that everyone will rave about!

Variations

One of the best parts about this high protein Thanksgiving recipe is how easily it can be customized! Here are some fun variations to consider, so you can tailor it to your taste or dietary needs:

Swap the Protein: If turkey isn’t your thing, try using chicken breast or even a lean cut of pork. Both options will still deliver that juicy, protein-packed goodness.
Vegetarian Delight: For a vegetarian version, replace the turkey with grilled portobello mushrooms or extra firm tofu. Just marinate the tofu for a bit to add flavor!
Different Grains: While quinoa is a fantastic base, you can switch it up with farro, barley, or even brown rice for a different texture and flavor.
Extra Veggies: Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables! Roasted butternut squash, bell peppers, or even some shredded carrots would add color and nutrition.
Spice it Up: Add a kick by incorporating spices like cumin, smoked paprika, or even a dash of cayenne for some heat. It’ll give your dish an exciting depth of flavor.
Nut Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of almonds, try using walnuts, pecans, or even sunflower seeds for that satisfying crunch.
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can really brighten up the dish! Consider adding chopped parsley, cilantro, or thyme to the quinoa mixture for an aromatic touch.

These variations let you get creative in the kitchen and make this high protein dish truly your own. Experiment and find your favorite combination that brings all the flavors to life for your Thanksgiving table!

Nutritional Information

As with any recipe, the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just estimates. But they’re a great starting point for knowing how this delicious dish fits into your meal plan!

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: Approximately 450
Protein: Roughly 40g
Sugar: About 2g
Sodium: Approximately 300mg
Fat: Around 15g
Saturated Fat: About 2g
Carbohydrates: Approximately 40g
Fiber: Around 10g
Cholesterol: About 80mg

Enjoying this high protein Thanksgiving recipe means you’re fueling your body with wholesome ingredients, keeping energy levels up for all the holiday festivities. Just keep in mind that these values can change based on how you customize the recipe, so feel free to tweak it to suit your nutritional needs!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Leftovers from this high protein Thanksgiving recipe are a gift that keeps on giving, so let’s make sure you store them properly! Here’s how to keep your delicious meal fresh and ready to enjoy later:

Storing Leftovers: Once the turkey and quinoa mixture have cooled down, transfer them to airtight containers. This helps lock in the moisture and keeps everything tasting great for a few days. You can store them in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing for Later: If you want to save some for a later date, you can freeze the turkey and quinoa mixture. Just make sure to use freezer-safe containers or bags. It should keep well for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just let it thaw overnight in the fridge.

Now, onto reheating! The goal here is to bring everything back to life without drying it out:

Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, the microwave is your friend. Place a portion of the turkey and quinoa mixture in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel (this helps keep moisture in), and heat it on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Add a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.
Oven Reheating: For the best texture, I recommend reheating in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftovers in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method really helps the flavors meld back together!

With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor the goodness of this high protein Thanksgiving recipe long after the holiday is over. Enjoy every delicious bite, my friend!

FAQ Section

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the turkey and quinoa mixture a day in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge, and then reheat them together when you’re ready to serve. This makes it super convenient for your Thanksgiving prep!

What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?
If Greek yogurt isn’t your thing, you can substitute it with sour cream or even a dairy-free yogurt if you’re looking for a non-dairy option. Both will still give you that creamy texture that complements the dish beautifully.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep! The turkey and quinoa mixture stores well in the fridge, so you can pack it up for lunches or easy dinners throughout the week. Just be sure to reheat it properly to maintain that delicious flavor!

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! If you have frozen spinach on hand, just thaw it and drain any excess water before adding it to the sauté. It’s a great time-saver and will work beautifully in this dish.

How can I make this dish spicier?
If you’re looking to add a kick, consider mixing in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the quinoa mixture. You can also drizzle some hot sauce over the finished dish for an extra layer of heat. Spice it up to your liking!

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Über mich

Hallo, ich bin Julia, das Herz hinter Vihaad Rezepte und eine leidenschaftliche Feinschmeckerin. Meine Liebe zum Kochen begann in meiner Kindheit, inspiriert von den herzhaften Mahlzeiten meiner Großmutter. Heute teile ich schmackhafte Rezepte, die Menschen durch gutes Essen zusammenbringen.