If you’re looking for a cozy, wholesome dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, the Turkey and Rice Soup with Herbs and Greens Recipe is exactly what you need. This soup combines tender turkey, fluffy rice, and vibrant greens all simmered in a fragrant broth infused with herbs that awaken your senses. It’s a perfect meal to nourish your body and soul, especially after a long day or when you want something light yet satisfying. Plus, it’s wonderfully flexible and easy to whip up, making it a true kitchen favorite to keep on rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret to making this soup shine. Each component plays a vital role, from building the hearty base to adding layers of flavor, texture, and beautiful color that make every spoonful inviting.
- Olive oil: The perfect base for sautéing your vegetables, adding subtle richness without overpowering the soup.
- Onion: Adds sweetness and depth, softening to melt seamlessly into the broth.
- Carrots: Give a natural hint of sweetness and brighten the texture with slight bite.
- Celery: Brings a refreshing crunch and helps frame the soup’s classic flavor profile.
- Garlic: Infuses a fragrant warmth that wakes up every ingredient in the pot.
- Dried thyme and rosemary: These herbs add earthiness and a touch of piney aroma, grounding the soup’s flavor.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, balancing flavors, and enhancing the overall taste.
- Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth: The heart of the soup, providing depth and savory comfort without overwhelming sodium.
- Cooked turkey: Utilizing leftover turkey keeps things easy and adds a tender, protein-packed chunkiness.
- White or brown rice: Absorbs the delicious broth, offering satisfying texture and warmth.
- Bay leaf: Adds a subtle herbal complexity while simmering.
- Spinach or kale: Optional but highly recommended for a boost of fresh greens and nutrients.
- Fresh lemon juice: A splash added at the end lifts the flavors with a bright and zesty note.
- Fresh parsley: Perfect for garnish to add a fresh, herbaceous crunch right before serving.
How to Make Turkey and Rice Soup with Herbs and Greens Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by warming the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, cooking them gently for 5 to 7 minutes until they soften and release their natural sweetness. This foundational step builds the flavor base for your Turkey and Rice Soup with Herbs and Greens Recipe, setting you up for a deeply comforting broth.
Step 2: Add the Garlic and Spices
Next, stir in the minced garlic along with dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Let these aromatics cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and the herbs start to bloom. This is where the soup begins to take on its signature herbal warmth and inviting scent.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Rice
Pour in your low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth and toss in the bay leaf to deepen the flavor. Bring everything to a rolling boil before turning down to a gentle simmer, then add the rice. Let this simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until the rice is perfectly tender and has soaked up those lovely herbal flavors.
Step 4: Add the Turkey and Greens
Stir in the shredded or diced turkey, along with your choice of chopped spinach or kale. Simmer for another 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the turkey to warm through while the greens wilt beautifully into the soup. This step adds both heartiness and a fresh, vibrant color contrast.
Step 5: Adjust the Flavor
Taste your soup and make adjustments as needed — a little more salt, a pinch of pepper, or an extra sprinkle of herbs can help tailor the flavors perfectly. For a burst of brightness, stir in a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice just before you take the pot off the heat. This small addition truly elevates the Turkey and Rice Soup with Herbs and Greens Recipe to a new level.
Step 6: Serve
Once your soup is seasoned to perfection, ladle it into bowls and garnish with a handful of fresh chopped parsley for that last touch of color and freshness. Serve it up hot alongside crusty bread or your favorite crackers to complete a meal that’s as simple as it is soul-satisfying.
How to Serve Turkey and Rice Soup with Herbs and Greens Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds freshness and visual appeal, while a grating of Parmesan or a dash of chili flakes can bring extra flavor layers. Feel free to experiment—garnishes are your chance to put a personal spin on this classic soup.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with warm, rustic bread like a crusty baguette or focaccia—perfect for dipping and soaking up every last bit. A side salad or light roasted vegetables also complement the hearty, fresh flavors without overwhelming the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Turkey and Rice Soup with Herbs and Greens Recipe in mini bread bowls or elegant ramekins at a dinner party. You can also garnish each bowl with a lemon wedge to offer extra zing. A drizzle of good olive oil or a dollop of sour cream adds a luscious finish that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it a fantastic option for quick lunches or cozy dinners during the week. The flavors tend to meld and develop even more with time.
Freezing
If you want to stash some for later, Turkey and Rice Soup with Herbs and Greens Recipe freezes beautifully. Use freezer-safe containers and leave some headspace to allow the soup to expand. It will keep for up to 3 months—simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If it seems too thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the consistency. Reheating slowly preserves the delicate balance of flavors and keeps your rice tender.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and chewier texture. Just keep in mind it may take a little longer to cook, so adjust the simmering time accordingly for perfectly tender rice.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Yes, this soup freezes very well. To maintain the best texture after freezing, make sure it’s completely cooled before freezing and thaw it slowly in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I substitute turkey with chicken?
Definitely! Chicken works just as well, and you can use roasted, shredded chicken to keep it easy. The herbs and rice still pair wonderfully, making it a versatile soup base.
What if I don’t have fresh greens on hand?
If you don’t have fresh spinach or kale, frozen greens are a quick fallback. Just add them a few minutes longer to your simmer time so they have a chance to fully thaw and tenderize in the soup.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and omit the turkey. You can add more hearty vegetables or even beans to keep it filling and delicious while sticking to meatless ingredients.
Final Thoughts
This Turkey and Rice Soup with Herbs and Greens Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm, welcoming embrace any time you need it. It’s hearty yet light, simple yet full of flavor, and endlessly adaptable for whatever you have on hand. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give it a try—you might just find your new favorite comfort food! Enjoy every spoonful.
Print
Turkey and Rice Soup with Herbs and Greens Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A comforting and nutritious Turkey and Rice Soup made with leftover turkey, fresh vegetables, and fragrant herbs. This easy-to-make soup combines tender turkey, wholesome rice, and flavorful broth, perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner. Optional greens like spinach or kale add a burst of color and nutrients, while fresh lemon juice brings a bright finish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 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)
- 1 bay leaf
Optional Ingredients
- 1 cup spinach or kale, chopped (for extra greens)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (for brightness)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (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, you can 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 cooked turkey or rotisserie turkey for convenience.
- For a gluten-free option, ensure broth and other ingredients are gluten-free.
- Brown rice can be substituted for longer cooking time and heartier texture.
- Optional greens like spinach or kale add nutrition and color.
- Adjust salt according to the broth’s sodium content and personal preference.
- Lemon juice enhances flavors but can be omitted if preferred.
