Pin it
Made this cozy soup yesterday using leftover turkey from our family dinner. After years of holiday cooking I've perfected this simple recipe that transforms leftovers into something special. It's light and nourishing perfect for when you need a break from rich holiday foods. Works beautifully for keto and gluten free diets too just skip the noodles.
The Story Behind the Soup
Isn't it wonderful how leftovers inspire new recipes? Every year after our big turkey feast I look forward to creating something fresh and different. This soup has become my go to comfort food bringing warmth to chilly winter evenings while using up every bit of that precious turkey.
From My Kitchen to Yours
- Good olive oil from my local market
- Sweet onion finely chopped
- Fresh carrots cut into chunks
- Crisp celery diced small
- Fresh garlic cloves minced
- Bay leaf from my herb garden
- Sea salt and fresh pepper
- Ripe tomatoes or canned when fresh aren't available
- Rich chicken stock homemade is best
- Garden fresh zucchini
- Leftover turkey meat
- Fresh herbs whatever looks good at the market
- Bright lemon juice
- Small pasta optional
Pin it
Let's Make Soup
- Start the Base
- Warm olive oil in your biggest pot add onions carrots celery cook until they smell amazing
- Layer the Flavors
- Add garlic bay leaf salt pepper let them release their magic
- Build the Broth
- Pour in tomatoes and stock bring to a gentle bubble simmer five minutes
- Fresh Additions
- Add zucchini turkey herbs squeeze in lemon let simmer until perfect
- Pasta Time
- If using pasta add now cook until tender
- Final Touch
- Fish out bay leaf taste for seasoning scatter fresh herbs
My Secret Broth Recipe
Want amazing broth? Pop that turkey carcass in your slow cooker with fresh veggies splash of apple cider vinegar bay leaves. Cover with water let it simmer overnight strain and you've got liquid gold for your soup.
Kitchen Tips
Soup stays fresh in your fridge three days tops. When reheating add a splash of stock if needed. Sadly this one doesn't freeze well but it disappears so quickly you won't need to.
Keto Version
For my keto friends just skip the pasta or try those amazing konjac noodles. They work perfectly in this soup and keep it low carb friendly.
Perfect Pairings
Nothing beats dunking fresh bread in this soup. Try my slow cooker soda bread recipe or if you're keeping it keto I've got a fantastic low carb bread that goes beautifully with it.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, cooked chicken works perfectly as a substitute for turkey in this recipe with the same cooking time and measurements.
- → How long does this soup keep?
Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The pasta may soften over time, so consider adding it fresh when reheating.
- → Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, freeze for up to 3 months without the pasta. Add fresh pasta when reheating for best texture.
- → What if I don't have all the fresh herbs?
Use dried herbs if needed - use 1/3 of the amount called for fresh herbs. Some herbs can be omitted or substituted.
- → Can I add different vegetables?
Absolutely! This soup is versatile. Add any vegetables you have - peas, corn, green beans all work well.