by N Zinser

Created on: May 14, 2009   Last Updated: April 23, 2010

This is a healthy and delicious taco casserole I started making when I joined Weight Watchers. I had a soft spot in my heart for Mexican food, but not for the calories! Many people on Weight Watchers had different recipes for taco casseroles, this was my interpretation of the casserole. The cornmeal has a wonderful sweet taste, and makes almost a polenta base for the spicy taco mixture. Using a jarred salsa makes it easy. I prefer Newman's Own salsa, as the taste is great, and the proceeds of the sale of Newman's Own goes to a great cause, Hole-in-the-Wall gang camp. Their fruit based salsas are really quite delicious, the peach variety in particular. You can use whatever brand you like! I listed using a packet of taco seasoning, but if you are concerned about the salt content, feel free to make your own. I'd recommend 2 tablespoons for a homemade taco seasoning. This is sure to satisfy your taco craving without the guilt!

Serves: 12

1 TBSP canola oil

1 cup cornmeal

2 cups low sodium/fat free chicken stock

1lb ground turkey

1 can black beans (or pinto, if you prefer)

1 10-oz box frozen corn

1 packet of low-sodium taco seasoning

1 jar Newman's Own Peach Salsa (or your favorite kind of salsa. Newman's Own Peach adds a delicious touch to this recipe.)

1 cup 2% shredded cheddar cheese

Preheat your oven to 350 and spray a 13x9x2 pan with cooking spray. Heat the chicken stock in a saucepan to a boil, add cornmeal and stir frequently until thickened, about 4-5 minutes. Spread the thickened cornmeal on the bottom of the pan. Heat the oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat; add turkey. Cook until browned. Add the seasoning, salsa, beans and corn, mix to combine. After the turkey mixture is well combined, spread over top of the cornmeal. Finally, sprinkle that with the cheddar cheese, and put in the oven for 30 minutes. Serves 12.

A wonderful topping for this is a slice of avocado, some light sour cream, and a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro.

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