# Convert Those Leftovers into a Wholesome Heart Soup!
As the festive season comes to a close, many of us are left with plenty of leftovers, especially turkey. Rather than letting that tasty bird go unused, why not change it into a soothing and healthful turkey vegetable soup? This straightforward recipe merges leftover turkey with assorted vegetables and delicate pasta, all simmered in a seasoned broth, resulting in a warm dish ideal for chilly weather.
## Why Turkey Vegetable Soup?
Turkey vegetable soup is not only a wonderful method to utilize leftover turkey, but it also provides numerous benefits:
– **One Pot Cooking**: This recipe is easy and requires just one pot, simplifying cleanup.
– **Freezer Friendly**: You can whip up a big batch and freeze portions for later, which is perfect for hectic weeknights.
– **Comforting Meal**: Nothing beats a warm bowl of soup on a cold day, especially when enjoyed with crusty bread.
## Ingredient Tips and Substitutions for Turkey Vegetable Soup
### Turkey
– **Utilize Cooked Turkey**: Leftover turkey from your holiday meal is ideal. For ease, chop it into small bits and freeze in 2 to 3 cup portions for future meals.
– **Turkey Alternative**: If turkey is not available, rotisserie chicken or even ground turkey can serve as substitutes.
### Vegetables
– **Base Vegetables**: Onion and celery provide a tasty foundation for the soup.
– **Mixed Vegetables**: You can opt for frozen mixed vegetables or use any leftover cooked veggies you have on hand, like carrots, green beans, or sweet potatoes. Just toss these in during the last five minutes of cooking.
### Pasta
– **Pasta Options**: Small to medium pasta varieties like elbow macaroni, shell noodles, or rotini are great for this soup.
### Broth
– **Flavorful Broth**: A hearty, tomato-based broth elevates the soup’s flavor. You can use store-bought broth or create your own using a turkey carcass for a richer taste.
## Variations
– **Budget Extender**: To extend the soup, add an additional two cups of broth and a can of drained and rinsed beans, like kidney or cannellini beans.
– **Add Some Heat**: Replace the Italian seasoning with homemade taco seasoning and include diced tomatoes with green chilies for a spicy kick.
## How to Prepare Turkey Vegetable Soup
### Instructions
1. **Sauté Aromatics**: In a Dutch oven or large pot, warm olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion, celery, and garlic, cooking until softened (around 5 minutes).
2. **Incorporate Flour and Seasoning**: Mix in flour and Italian seasoning, cooking for another 2 minutes to enhance flavor.
3. **Combine Ingredients**: Add the broth, diced tomatoes, and turkey. Bring the mix to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes.
4. **Mix in Vegetables and Pasta**: Stir in the mixed vegetables and pasta, cooking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the pasta is tender. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
### Pro Tip
If you expect to have leftovers, cook the pasta separately and add it to each bowl before serving. This avoids the pasta from absorbing too much broth and turning mushy.
## Storing Leftover Soup
– **Refrigerator**: Keep turkey vegetable soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove.
– **Freezer**: For longer-term storage, transfer the soup to zippered bags and freeze for up to 4 months. When ready to eat, reheat over medium heat, adding freshly cooked noodles or rice.
### Important Note
If you’ve prepared the pasta in the soup and wish to store or freeze leftovers, strain the broth into a separate container. This prevents the pasta from becoming overly soft.
## Conclusion
Turning your holiday turkey leftovers into a nourishing turkey vegetable soup is a delicious and resourceful way to enjoy a comforting meal. With its straightforward preparation and hearty ingredients, this soup is bound to become a family favorite. So, the next time you find yourself with leftover turkey, keep this recipe in mind and relish every spoonful of cozy goodness!
Did you have fun preparing this Turkey Vegetable Soup? Be sure to share a comment or rating below!