Turkey Spinach Soup: A Delicious and Healthy Recipe

Turkey Spinach Soup: the ultimate comfort food that transforms leftover Thanksgiving turkey into a vibrant and nourishing meal! Are you tired of the same old turkey sandwiches after the holidays? Do you crave something warm, flavorful, and packed with nutrients? Then look no further! This recipe is your answer to a delicious and healthy way to enjoy those precious turkey leftovers.

Soup, in general, has a rich history, dating back to ancient times when resourceful cooks simmered whatever ingredients they had on hand to create a hearty and sustaining broth. This Turkey Spinach Soup builds upon that tradition, offering a modern twist with lean turkey and vitamin-rich spinach. It’s a culinary hug in a bowl!

What makes this soup so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of savory and earthy flavors. The tender turkey, combined with the fresh spinach and aromatic broth, creates a symphony of taste that will tantalize your taste buds. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient! This recipe is quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend lunch. People love this dish because it’s not only delicious but also a fantastic way to use up leftovers, reduce food waste, and nourish their bodies with wholesome ingredients. I know you’ll love it!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
• 1 (10-ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup orzo pasta
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Sautéing the Aromatics

1. First, let’s get started by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. I like to use a Dutch oven because it distributes heat evenly, but any large pot will do.
2. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t rush this step; allowing the onion to soften properly will build a good flavor base for the soup.
3. Next, add the minced garlic to the pot. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. The aroma should be lovely at this point!

Building the Soup Base

1. Now, pour in the chicken broth. Make sure it’s low-sodium so you can control the saltiness of the final dish. Bring the broth to a simmer.
2. Add the shredded or diced cooked turkey. This is a great way to use up leftover Thanksgiving or Christmas turkey! If you don’t have leftover turkey, you can use rotisserie chicken or even cooked ground turkey as a substitute.
3. Stir in the thawed and squeezed dry spinach. It’s important to squeeze out as much excess water as possible from the spinach to prevent the soup from becoming watery. I usually do this by placing the thawed spinach in a clean kitchen towel and squeezing.
4. Add the rinsed and drained cannellini beans. These beans add a creamy texture and extra protein to the soup. You can substitute other types of beans, such as great northern beans or kidney beans, if you prefer.
5. Stir in the orzo pasta. Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and adds a nice texture to the soup. You can use other small pasta shapes, such as ditalini or acini di pepe, if you don’t have orzo on hand.
6. Add the grated Parmesan cheese. This adds a salty, savory flavor to the soup. I like to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
7. Season with dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Adjust the seasonings to your liking. I always recommend starting with less salt and adding more to taste.

Simmering and Finishing

1. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the orzo pasta is cooked through and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
2. Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or oregano to suit your taste.
3. If the soup is too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth to thin it out. If it’s too thin, you can simmer it for a few more minutes, uncovered, to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
4. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also brighten up the flavors.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy! This soup is delicious on its own or with a side of crusty bread for dipping.

Tips and Variations

• Make it vegetarian: Omit the turkey and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more beans or vegetables to make it more filling.
• Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as carrots, celery, zucchini, or kale.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup for a little heat.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream at the end for a creamier texture.
• Use different herbs: Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or basil, to change the flavor profile of the soup.
• Make it ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually meld together and improve over time.
• Freeze it: This soup can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

This turkey spinach soup is a complete meal in itself, but here are a few serving suggestions to make it even more special:

• Serve with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
• Pair it with a simple green salad for a light and healthy lunch or dinner.
• Garnish with a dollop of pesto or a swirl of olive oil for added flavor and visual appeal.
• Serve it as a starter for a larger meal, such as a roasted chicken or a pasta dish.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving)

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: 300-350
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fat: 10-15g
• Carbohydrates: 30-35g
• Fiber: 5-7g

Why This Recipe Works

This turkey spinach soup is a winner for several reasons:

• It’s healthy and nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, this soup is a great way to nourish your body.
• It’s easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights.
• It’s versatile: You can easily customize this soup to your liking by adding different vegetables, beans, or herbs.
• It’s a great way to use up leftovers: This soup is a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey or chicken.
• It’s delicious: The combination of savory turkey, creamy beans, and tender orzo pasta creates a satisfying and flavorful soup that everyone will love.

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another soup recipe; it’s a hug in a bowl, a comforting and flavorful experience that you absolutely must try. The combination of tender turkey, vibrant spinach, and a savory broth creates a symphony of flavors that will warm you from the inside out. It’s the perfect way to use up leftover Thanksgiving turkey, but honestly, it’s so good you might just roast a turkey specifically to make this soup!

Why This Turkey Spinach Soup is a Winner

I know there are a million soup recipes out there, but trust me on this one. This turkey spinach soup is incredibly versatile, easy to make, and packed with nutrients. It’s a complete meal in itself, offering a healthy dose of protein, vitamins, and fiber. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra greens, even for the pickiest eaters! The depth of flavor comes from the simple yet effective combination of aromatics and spices, creating a truly unforgettable taste.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Now, let’s talk about how to make this soup even more amazing! For a heartier meal, consider adding some cooked pasta, like ditalini or orzo. A dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream adds a creamy tang that complements the savory broth beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, a squeeze of lemon juice brightens up the flavors and adds a zesty kick.

Want to spice things up? A pinch of red pepper flakes will do the trick! Or, for a richer, more decadent flavor, stir in a tablespoon of pesto just before serving. If you don’t have leftover turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly as a substitute. And for a vegetarian option, simply omit the turkey and add a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans or chickpeas.

Another great variation is to add different vegetables. Diced carrots, celery, or zucchini would all be delicious additions. You could even throw in some chopped kale or Swiss chard along with the spinach for an extra boost of nutrients. The possibilities are endless!

Don’t Just Take My Word For It!

I’m so confident that you’ll love this recipe that I urge you to give it a try. It’s the perfect weeknight meal, a comforting lunch, or a satisfying supper on a chilly evening. It’s also a great make-ahead dish, as the flavors only deepen and meld together over time.

Once you’ve made this turkey spinach soup, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you make any variations? What did you think of the flavor? Share your photos and comments on social media using [Insert your social media hashtag here]. I can’t wait to see your creations and hear your feedback. Happy cooking, and enjoy every spoonful! I hope this becomes a staple in your household, just as it has in mine. It’s a recipe that’s sure to bring warmth, comfort, and deliciousness to your table. So go ahead, grab your ingredients, and get ready to create a soup that will impress your family and friends! You won’t regret it.