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Turkey & Veggie Skewers - Simple, Juicy, and Perfect for the Grill

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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Turkey: 1.5 pounds turkey breast or tenderloins, cut into 1.25-inch cubes
  • Bell peppers: 2 medium (any colors), cut into 1.25-inch pieces
  • Red onion: 1 large, cut into wedges
  • Zucchini: 1 medium, halved lengthwise and sliced into 1-inch half-moons
  • Cherry tomatoes: 1 pint (optional, for color and juiciness)
  • Olive oil: 1/4 cup
  • Lemon: Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
  • Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
  • Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
  • Smoked paprika: 1 teaspoon
  • Ground cumin: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Crushed red pepper flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper: To taste
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro: A small handful, chopped (for serving)
  • Skewers: 8–10 metal skewers or wooden skewers soaked in water for 20–30 minutes

Method
 

  1. Prep the marinade: In a large bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, cumin, red pepper flakes (if using), 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
  2. Cube the turkey: Pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Cut into even 1.25-inch pieces for consistent cooking.
  3. Marinate: Add turkey to the bowl, toss to coat, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours. If short on time, 20 minutes still adds good flavor.
  4. Prep the veggies: Cut peppers, onion, and zucchini into similar-sized pieces. Pat dry to help them char, not steam.
  5. Season the veggies: Drizzle with a little olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss to coat.
  6. Skewer: Thread turkey and vegetables onto skewers, alternating for even distribution. Don’t pack them too tightly; air circulation helps them brown.
  7. Preheat the grill: Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high and oil the grates. For oven broiling, set the rack 6 inches from the broiler and preheat broiler on high.
  8. Cook: Grill for 8–12 minutes total, turning every 2–3 minutes, until turkey is cooked through and lightly charred. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  9. Broiler option: Place skewers on a foil-lined baking sheet. Broil 8–10 minutes, turning halfway, until charred in spots and cooked through.
  10. Rest and garnish: Let skewers rest 3 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or cilantro and an extra squeeze of lemon.
  11. Serve: Pair with rice, couscous, a simple salad, or warm flatbread and yogurt sauce.