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Healthy Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.1 from 67 reviews
  • Author: Maria
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

A comforting and nutritious soup made from leftover turkey, fresh vegetables, chickpeas, and fragrant herbs, perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal.


Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables and Herbs

  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 carrots, diced
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 2 sprigs rosemary
  • 3 cups packed baby spinach

Other Ingredients

  • 1-2 teaspoons olive oil
  • 6 cups chicken or turkey broth
  • 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups leftover turkey, diced
  • Salt to taste (about 1 teaspoon)


Instructions

  1. Sauté Vegetables: Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and diced onions, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until the onions start to soften. Then add the diced carrots and continue sautéing for an additional 3-4 minutes until they begin to tenderize.
  2. Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the chicken or turkey broth, add the drained chickpeas, diced leftover turkey, bay leaves, and rosemary sprigs. Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the carrots are fully tender. Taste the soup and add salt if needed, in 1/2 teaspoon increments for precision.
  3. Finish with Spinach: Stir in the packed baby spinach and cook uncovered for 1 minute, allowing the greens to wilt. Afterward, remove and discard the bay leaves and rosemary sprigs. Turn off the heat and serve the soup warm.

Notes

  • Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels better if desired.
  • Leftover turkey works great for this recipe, but chicken or even a vegetarian substitute can be used for variations.
  • Additional herbs like thyme or parsley can be added for extra flavor.
  • This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
  • For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup and mix back in before serving.