Honor Pi Day with Shepherd's turkey pie recipe

March 14 marks Pi Day, an annual celebration of the mathematical sign pi. Pi Day was founded in 1988 by physicist Larry Shaw. March 14 was selected because the date (3.14) represents the first three digits of pi.

In honor of March 14, Pi Day, here’s a recipe for a yummy, comforting turkey shepherd’s pie. Turkey can be enjoyed year round, not just at the holidays. You can also use chicken, ground meat or plant-based protein. To save time you can also use frozen mashed potatoes.

This recipe makes 8 servings and is heart smart and low sodium.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons canola oil, divided
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 small onion, diced
1 cup diced celery
3 cups diced turkey breast
1/4 cup whole-wheat flour
2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
3 cups frozen peas and carrots, thawed
1 teaspoon ground thyme
nonstick cooking spray
6 medium potatoes, baked, peeled and mashed

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375 F.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic, onion and celery and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes.
3. Add 1 tablespoon oil and diced turkey. Stir in flour. Add vegetable broth, peas and carrots, and thyme. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer until slightly thickened.
4. Coat a 2-quart oven-proof pan with nonstick cooking spray. Pour turkey mixture into pan.
5. Spread mashed potatoes over turkey mixture and bake until heated through and lightly browned (about 20 to 30 minutes).
6. Cut into 8 pieces. Serve warm.