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
Scale
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.
