Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Healthy Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 29 reviews
  • Author: Beverly
  • 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

This Healthy Leftover Turkey Soup is a comforting and nutritious way to transform your turkey leftovers into a flavorful meal. Packed with vegetables, chickpeas, and baby spinach, this easy-to-make soup is perfect for a light yet satisfying lunch or dinner.


Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 carrots, diced
  • 3 cups packed baby spinach

Broth & Seasonings

  • 1-2 teaspoons olive oil
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 2 sprigs rosemary
  • 6 cups chicken or turkey broth
  • salt to taste (about 1 teaspoon)

Protein

  • 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups leftover turkey, diced


Instructions

  1. Prepare the vegetables: Place a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and diced onions, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until the onions begin to soften. Then add the diced carrots and continue sautéing for an additional 3-4 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
  2. Simmer the soup: Pour in the chicken or turkey broth, then 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 cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the carrots are tender. Taste the soup and add salt in 1/2 teaspoon increments as needed to achieve the desired seasoning.
  3. Add spinach and finish: Stir in the packed baby spinach leaves and cook uncovered for 1 minute to wilt the spinach. Turn off the heat and carefully remove the bay leaves and rosemary sprigs before serving your soup warm.

Notes

  • You can substitute chickpeas with white beans or lentils for a different texture and flavor.
  • Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness of the soup.
  • Add other leftover vegetables like celery or potatoes for added heartiness.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in.