Terrific Turkey Soup
A hearty turkey soup packed with vegetables and rice, featuring savory flavors from salsa and spices. Perfect for comforting meals using leftover turkey.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring 12 cups of water to a boil. Add chopped carrots, celery, and onion. Add salt, garlic powder, pepper, and celery powder.
- Simmer for 45 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
- Add 4 cups of cooked rice and leftover turkey to the soup. Let simmer for an additional 15 minutes.
- Stir in salsa and cook for a few more minutes.
- Serve hot. Soup is on!
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves during simmering. If you don’t have leftover turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken works well as a substitute. You can also swap rice for quinoa or barley for a different texture. Adjust the spice level by adding more salsa or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick.
Serving Suggestions
This turkey soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a light meal. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. It also works well as a starter before a hearty main dish like Christmas Turkey or Doretha's Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover turkey soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers, where it can last for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water if it thickens.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Terrific Turkey Soup contains roughly 215 calories, with 10g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (460% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (64% of the Daily Value), and potassium (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1929mg per serving (84% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This turkey soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Just be sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.
What can I use instead of rice?
If you're looking for a substitute for rice, quinoa or barley are excellent alternatives. They will provide a hearty texture and absorb the flavors of the soup nicely. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as these grains may require different cooking durations.
Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?
Certainly! For a vegetarian version, replace the turkey with cooked beans or lentils for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of water, and you can include a variety of vegetables like potatoes or mushrooms to enhance the flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).