The Turkey, Spinach, and Spaghetti Soup recipe is a delightful way to transform leftover turkey into a comforting, nutritious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. This dish combines the heartiness of spaghetti noodles with the health benefits of spinach, all complemented by the warmth of ginger and the savory essence of turkey. It’s quick to prepare, taking only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights or whenever you crave a cozy, homemade soup.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup spaghetti noodles, broken into smaller pieces for soup
- 1 cup pasta (any short pasta works well)
- 1 cup frozen spinach
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, diced (or substitute with ground ginger)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions:
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Preparation:
- Start by chopping the onion and peeling and dicing the fresh ginger, if using. Fresh ginger adds a robust flavor that complements the turkey and spinach well.
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Sautéing Aromatics:
- In a large pot over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and fresh ginger in a small amount of olive oil until the onion turns translucent, which usually takes a couple of minutes. This step helps to build a flavorful base for the soup.
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Adding Broth and Spinach:
- Once the onions are translucent, add the chicken broth and frozen spinach to the pot. You can thaw the spinach beforehand or simply add it frozen; it will thaw and cook as the soup simmers. Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a boil.
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Simmering:
- Reduce the heat to low once the mixture comes to a boil. Allow the soup to simmer gently until the spinach is fully thawed and incorporated into the broth.
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Adding Turkey and Pasta:
- While the soup simmers, cut the leftover turkey into strips or chunks. Add the turkey and pasta (use any short pasta of your choice) to the pot once the spinach is fully thawed. Cover the pot again and simmer until the pasta is cooked to al dente texture, ensuring that it retains a slight firmness to the bite.
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Seasoning:
- Stir in the lemon juice and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference, ensuring a balanced flavor profile.
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Final Touches:
- Once the pasta is cooked and the turkey is heated through, your soup is ready! Serve hot, perhaps accompanied by a slice of crusty bread and a glass of wine for a comforting meal.
Additional Tips:
- If using uncooked turkey instead of leftover cooked turkey, ensure it is fully cooked through before serving. This may require a slightly longer simmering time.
- Feel free to customize the soup by adding other vegetables or herbs according to your taste preferences.
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days and reheated for quick meals throughout the week.
Enjoy this Turkey, Spinach, and Spaghetti Soup as a delicious way to utilize leftover turkey while creating a wholesome and satisfying meal for yourself and your loved ones!
