Description
A comforting and hearty leftover turkey soup made with tender turkey, fresh vegetables, and flavorful herbs. This easy stovetop recipe transforms your holiday turkey remnants into a warm, nourishing meal perfect for any day.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 6 cups chicken or turkey broth
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
- 1 cup cooked rice, pasta, or noodles
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cups spinach or kale
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the Oil: Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the vegetables.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Cook Vegetables with Herbs: Stir in the sliced carrots, celery, dried thyme, rosemary, and paprika. Continue cooking for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in 6 cups of chicken or turkey broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Add Turkey and Starch: Incorporate the shredded cooked turkey and your choice of cooked rice, pasta, or noodles. Stir well and heat through.
- Add Greens and Peas: Toss in the frozen peas and fresh spinach or kale. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the greens wilt and peas are tender.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning to your preference.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm and enjoy your homemade leftover turkey soup.
Notes
- You can substitute spinach with kale or any leafy greens you prefer.
- For a gluten-free version, choose rice or gluten-free pasta.
- Adjust broth quantity depending on desired soup thickness.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness if desired.
- Leftover veggies can also be added for extra nutrition.
