Description
This hearty Turkey and Rice Soup is a comforting and nutritious recipe perfect for using leftover turkey. Packed with tender vegetables, fragrant herbs, and wholesome rice, this soup is quick to prepare and perfect for a warming meal any day of the week.
Ingredients
Scale
Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 bay leaf
Liquids & Main Ingredients
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup cooked turkey, shredded or diced (great for leftover turkey)
- 1/2 cup white rice (or brown rice for a heartier option)
Optional Additions
- 1 cup spinach or kale, chopped (optional, for extra greens)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the Garlic and Spices: Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant.
- Add the Broth and Rice: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the bay leaf. Stir to combine. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Cook the Rice: Add the rice to the soup and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the soup is fragrant.
- Add the Turkey and Greens: Stir in the shredded or diced turkey and the chopped spinach or kale (if using). Simmer for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the turkey to heat through and the greens to wilt.
- Adjust the Flavor: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.
- Add Lemon Juice: For added brightness, stir in a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice at the end.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.
Notes
- Use leftover turkey for a convenient and flavorful protein addition.
- Substitute brown rice for white rice to increase fiber and nutrition.
- Low-sodium broth helps control salt intake, adjust salt seasoning accordingly.
- Adding spinach or kale boosts vitamins and adds beautiful color to the soup.
- Fresh lemon juice at the end brightens the flavor but can be omitted if preferred.
- Serve with crusty bread or crackers for a heartier meal.
