There is something wonderfully comforting and nourishing about a good soup, especially when it’s made from the best of leftovers. This Healthy Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe transforms those bits of turkey from your previous meal into a vibrant, hearty bowl of warmth and flavor that feels both wholesome and indulgent. With simple, fresh ingredients like tender carrots, protein-packed chickpeas, and bright baby spinach melding seamlessly in a savory broth, this soup isn’t just a clever way to reduce waste—it’s a recipe you’ll want to make over and over again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the key to making this soup a star on your table. Each component plays a vital role: the aromatic onion and sweet carrots build the base, the broth brings rich depth, while the chickpeas and turkey add satisfying substance and protein. Finally, the spinach offers a refreshing pop of color and nutrients, balancing everything perfectly.
- 1 onion, diced: Adds natural sweetness and foundation for flavor as it sautés.
- 3 carrots, diced: Bring gentle earthiness and a subtle crunch when cooked just right.
- 1-2 teaspoons olive oil: Helps to gently caramelize the onions and carrots, enhancing their flavors.
- 2 bay leaves: Infuse the broth with an herbal aromatic depth that’s hard to beat.
- 2 sprigs rosemary: Offer a fragrant pine-like note that complements the turkey beautifully.
- 6 cups chicken or turkey broth: The working liquid that carries all the flavors together with warmth and umami.
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed: Adds texture, protein, and a subtle nutty flavor to the soup.
- 2 cups leftover turkey, diced: The star ingredient that turns this from simple soup into a hearty meal.
- Salt to taste (about 1 teaspoon): Enhances and balances all the flavors in the pot.
- 3 cups packed baby spinach: Adds freshness, a beautiful green color, and a hit of vitamins right before serving.
How to Make Healthy Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by warming the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Toss in the diced onion and let it soften for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring occasionally so it doesn’t brown too quickly. Then add the diced carrots and continue sautéing for another 3 to 4 minutes, allowing them to release their natural sweetness and begin tenderizing. This step is crucial as it lays down the flavor foundation that infuses the whole soup.
Step 2: Add Broth, Chickpeas, Turkey, and Herbs
Pour in your chicken or turkey broth, then add the rinsed chickpeas, diced leftover turkey, bay leaves, and rosemary sprigs. Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium. Let the soup simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, giving the carrots time to soften perfectly while the herbs impart their flavors. Don’t forget to taste the soup and adjust the salt, adding about half a teaspoon at a time to reach your preferred seasoning.
Step 3: Finish with Fresh Spinach
Once the carrots are tender, stir in the baby spinach leaves. Let them cook uncovered for just one minute—this keeps the spinach vibrant and slightly crisp without wilting into mush. Before serving, carefully fish out the bay leaves and rosemary sprigs to keep the flavors bright and clean. Now your Healthy Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe is ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Healthy Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Consider topping your soup with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dusting of grated Parmesan cheese. A swirl of plain Greek yogurt or a squeeze of lemon juice can also add a delightful tang that brightens each spoonful beautifully.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty whole-grain bread or a slice of garlic toast for dipping. A crisp green salad on the side balances the warm, rich broth with fresh crunch, making for a well-rounded meal that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual family meal, serve the soup in large mugs or bowls for easy and cozy eating. If you want to impress guests, ladle the soup into shallow bowls and garnish each with a delicate herb sprig. For a rustic touch, place the bowls on a wooden board with fresh bread and sides artistically arranged.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Healthy Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe, simply transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for a quick lunch or dinner later in the week.
Freezing
This soup freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags, leaving some room for expansion. Frozen soup can last for up to 3 months without losing its flavor or texture, offering convenience when you want a healthy, homemade meal ready to go.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure it warms evenly. Avoid boiling, especially after adding spinach, to preserve the freshness of the greens and prevent toughening of the turkey. A microwave also works well—cover the bowl and heat in 1-minute bursts until hot.
FAQs
Can I use frozen turkey for this soup?
Absolutely! Just thaw the turkey completely before adding it to the soup. Frozen turkey can be a great way to extend leftovers and still get all the delicious flavor and nutrients.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the turkey and broth with vegetable broth and add more beans or lentils for protein. The hearty chickpeas and veggies will still make it satisfying and tasty.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to throw in chopped celery, zucchini, or mushrooms to customize the soup to your liking. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure everything is perfectly tender.
How spicy is this soup?
This Healthy Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe is not spicy by nature, making it a comforting choice for any palate. If you like a little heat, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce works great.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, fresh herbs like rosemary and bay leaves add a wonderful aromatic quality to the soup. Just remember to remove any whole sprigs or leaves before serving to avoid any tough bits in your bowl.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a soul-warming, nourishing way to make the most of your holiday or weeknight leftovers, this Healthy Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s quick, easy, and packed with wholesome ingredients that comfort and satisfy. Give it a try—you might find it becomes a new favorite in your kitchen that’s as good to the soul as it is to your health.
Print
Healthy Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe
- 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, and flavorful herbs, perfect for a quick and healthy meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 carrots, diced
- 3 cups packed baby spinach
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 sprigs rosemary
Proteins and Legumes
- 2 cups leftover turkey, diced
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
Liquids and Seasonings
- 6 cups chicken or turkey broth
- 1–2 teaspoons olive oil
- Salt to taste (about 1 teaspoon)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Place a large pot over medium-high heat. Add olive oil followed by the diced onions and sauté for 1-2 minutes until translucent. Then add the diced carrots and continue to sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
- Add Broth and Main Ingredients: Pour in the chicken or turkey broth along with 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 tender. Taste the soup and add salt in 1/2 teaspoon increments as needed.
- Finish with Spinach: Stir in the packed baby spinach and cook uncovered for 1 minute, allowing the spinach to wilt. Turn off the heat, then remove the bay leaves and rosemary sprigs before serving.
Notes
- Use leftover turkey from your previous meal to avoid waste and add rich flavor.
- If you prefer, substitute chickpeas with white beans or another legume for variety.
- Adjust the amount of olive oil based on your dietary preferences or use another cooking oil if desired.
- For a thicker soup, you can slightly mash some of the chickpeas before adding to the pot.
- Adding fresh herbs at the end can brighten the flavor even more.
