Dairy Farmers of Canada

Turkey and Paneer brochettes

Our dietitians' favourite

This was a unanimous favourite in our test kitchen. If you’ve never tried Paneer, you’ll be surprised at its mellow character – it has a soft texture and absorbs the flavour of the marinade.

  • Prep: 15 min
  • Cooking: 20 min
  • Refrigeration: 1 h
Yields 4 - 6 Servings
turkey and paneer brochettes

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup (125 mL) store-bought marinated grilled bell peppers
  • 1/4 cup (60 mL) basil pesto homemade or store-bought
  • Salt and freshly ground pepper
  • 1 lb (450 g) turkey or chicken breasts cut into 1½˝ (4 cm) cubes
  • 8 oz (225 g) Canadian Paneer cut into 1˝ (2.5 cm) cubes
  • 1/4 cup (60 mL) cilantro chopped
  • Homemade pesto
  • 2 tbsp (30 mL) pine nuts
  • 1 or 2 cloves garlic
  • 2 cups (500 mL) fresh basil leaves
  • 2 tbsp (30 mL) Canadian Parmesan, grated
  • 2–3 tbsp (30–45 mL) olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground pepper
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Preparation

Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C) or barbecue to medium-high heat.

In a food processor, process grilled peppers with pesto. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Thread about 5 cubes of turkey or chicken with 2 cubes of cheese onto each skewer.

Brush brochettes generously with grilled pepper-pesto mixture and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour and up to one day before cooking.

Cook in the oven for 15–20 minutes or on the barbecue for 10-15 minutes , turning at least once. The meat must be completely cooked through and the cheese golden brown. Sprinkle with cilantro and serve with vegetables or a salad. 

Homemade pesto

 Place pine nuts in a skillet and toast on medium heat, stirring frequently. Let cool.

Using a food processor, chop garlic with pine nuts.

Add basil and Parmesan. Process until everything is finely chopped.

With the machine running, gradually pour oil through the top of the food processor.

Season to taste and transfer to a jar. Cover and store in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Tips

If using wood or bamboo skewers, soak in cold water for 30 minutes before using to keep them from burning on the grill.

Cheese alternatives: Canadian Halloumi, Queso Fresco.

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Nutritional information

Per serving
Energy: 259 Calories
Protein: 26 g
Carbohydrate: 2 g
Fat: 17 g
Fibre: 0.3 g
Sodium: 332 mg

Top 5 Nutrients

(% DV*)
Calcium: 29 % / 323 mg
Niacin: 36 %
Selenium: 61 %
Vitamin B12: 42 %
Vitamin B6: 43 %