Turkey Vegetable Soup

Turkey Vegetable Soup is a hearty and nutritious dish perfect for any occasion. Packed with vibrant vegetables and lean ground turkey, this soup is not only low in calories but also bursting with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a cozy dinner, or a meal prep option for the week, this Turkey Vegetable Soup will satisfy your cravings while helping you stay on track with your health goals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Low-Calorie Delight: This Turkey Vegetable Soup is a guilt-free option that fills you up without the extra calories.
• Packed with Nutrients: With an array of fresh vegetables, this soup offers essential vitamins and minerals.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or adjust quantities based on what you have on hand.
• Easy to Make: The straightforward instructions make this soup ideal for beginner cooks and busy schedules alike.
• Great For Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy all week long; it reheats beautifully!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot (at least 6-quart capacity)
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: A spacious pot allows ample room for all ingredients to cook evenly without overflowing.
• Chef’s knife: A good knife ensures precise cuts, making vegetable preparation quick and efficient.

Ingredients

For this delicious Turkey Vegetable Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Protein & Broth

• 2 pounds ground turkey
• 10-12 cups chicken or turkey broth

Vegetables

• 1 large onion (chopped)
• 4-5 large carrots (chopped)
• 1 & 1/2 cups celery (chopped)
• 1 sweet potato (peeled and chopped)
• 2 cups coleslaw cabbage (or more to taste)
• 1 zucchini (chopped)
• 1 yellow squash (chopped)

Canned Goods & Seasonings

• 4 cloves garlic (smashed and minced)
• 1 (14-oz) can diced tomatoes (preferably fire roasted)
• 1 (14-oz) can white beans

Spices & Garnish

• 2 & 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon celery seed
• 1 teaspoon basil
• 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or 6 fresh thyme sprigs
• Chopped parsley (to garnish – optional)
• Pesto (optional garnish – not low calorie)
• Parmesan cheese (optional garnish – not low calorie)

How to Make Turkey Vegetable Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Turkey and Onion

In a very large soup pot, add 2 pounds of ground turkey alongside the chopped onion. Bring to a sauté over medium-high heat until the turkey is browned.

Step 2: Drain Excess Fat

Turn off the heat and drain any excess fat from the pot. You can do this by tilting the pot slightly and using a spoon to scoop out fat into a small bowl lined with foil.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Spices

Return the heat to medium. Add 4 cloves of minced garlic along with all spices: kosher salt, black pepper, oregano, garlic powder, smoked paprika, celery seed, basil, crushed red pepper, and thyme if using dried. Cook until fragrant.

Step 4: Incorporate Broth

Pour in 10–12 cups of broth. If using turkey base like Better than Bouillon, mix it according to package instructions. Bring mixture to high heat until boiling.

Step 5: Add Harder Vegetables

Once boiling, add chopped carrots first. Follow with celery, sweet potato, and coleslaw cabbage. Adjust amounts based on preference. Add thyme sprigs if using fresh.

Step 6: Add Canned Ingredients

Stir in the can of diced tomatoes along with their juice. Drain white beans before adding them to the pot too.

Step 7: Simmer

Reduce heat to medium-low for a gentle simmer. Allow soup to cook for about 20 minutes until carrots and sweet potatoes are almost fork-tender.

Step 8: Add Soft Vegetables

Add chopped zucchini and yellow squash. Continue simmering for another 5–10 minutes until squash is tender.

Step 9: Final Touches

Skim off any foam that gathers on top of your soup during cooking. If using fresh thyme, remove stems before serving.

Step 10: Serve Hot

Serve hot! Optionally garnish each bowl with pesto or shredded parmesan cheese for added flavor; parsley makes a great low-calorie garnish!

Enjoy your delicious homemade Turkey Vegetable Soup!

How to Serve Turkey Vegetable Soup

Turkey Vegetable Soup is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your soup experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Basil Leaves – Add whole basil leaves for an aromatic touch.

Accompanied by Bread

• Crusty Baguette – Serve with slices of crusty baguette for dipping.
• Garlic Bread – Pair with garlic bread for a flavorful contrast.

Topped with Extras

• Shredded Cheese – A sprinkle of cheese adds creaminess and richness.
• A Dollop of Pesto – Top each bowl with pesto for added flavor and texture.

In Individual Bowls

• Personal Touch – Serve soup in individual bowls to create a cozy dining atmosphere.

How to Perfect Turkey Vegetable Soup

Creating the perfect Turkey Vegetable Soup is easy with a few simple tips. Follow these recommendations to ensure your soup is flavorful and satisfying.

• Bold Flavoring – Use fresh herbs and spices for deeper flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• Quality Broth – Start with high-quality chicken or turkey broth to provide a robust base.
• Vegetable Variety – Incorporate different vegetables to add texture and nutrients, making the soup more interesting.
• Adjust Consistency – If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
• Taste as You Go – Regularly taste the soup while cooking to adjust seasonings as needed.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Vegetable Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Turkey Vegetable Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options that complement this hearty soup.

1. Garlic Bread – Perfect for dipping into the savory broth, this classic choice never disappoints.
2. Mixed Green Salad – A refreshing salad adds crunch and balances the richness of the soup.
3. Quinoa Salad – Light yet filling, quinoa salad offers additional protein and complements the flavors well.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Serve roasted seasonal veggies on the side for extra nutrition and taste.
5. Steamed Rice – A simple side of steamed rice can soak up the broth beautifully, making each bite satisfying.
6. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins add a delightful contrast to the savory flavors in the soup.
7. Stuffed Peppers – For something heartier, stuffed peppers can serve as a filling accompaniment.
8. Cheese Quesadillas – Easy to prepare, quesadillas provide cheesy goodness that pairs wonderfully with the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Turkey Vegetable Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the final result. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the Sautéing Step: Failing to sauté the turkey and onions first can result in a bland soup. Always start by cooking these ingredients to build flavor.

• Ignoring Spice Measurements: Using too much or too little of spices can throw off the taste. Follow the measurements closely for a balanced flavor profile.

• Not Adjusting Veggie Quantities: Adding too many vegetables without considering their cooking times can lead to uneven textures. Add harder veggies first and adjust based on your preferences.

• Rushing the Simmering Process: Cooking at too high a temperature can make vegetables mushy. Simmer gently to allow all flavors to meld beautifully.

• Overlooking Storage Tips: Not storing leftovers properly can lead to spoilage. Ensure you follow storage guidelines for freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Turkey Vegetable Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Turkey Vegetable Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.

• Microwave: Microwave in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.

• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Turkey Vegetable Soup that might help you with your cooking journey.

Can I use different vegetables in Turkey Vegetable Soup?

Absolutely! This soup is very versatile. Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what you have available or your personal preferences.

How long does Turkey Vegetable Soup last in the fridge?

Turkey Vegetable Soup can last up to 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey with plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

Is Turkey Vegetable Soup healthy?

Yes! This soup is low-calorie and packed with nutrients from various vegetables, making it a great choice for healthy eating.

What should I serve with Turkey Vegetable Soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s satisfying and wholesome.

Final Thoughts

Turkey Vegetable Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. With its hearty ingredients and rich flavors, this recipe is perfect for meal prepping or enjoying any day of the week. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or seasonings!