Okay, picture this: I’m It’s a chilly evening, the kind where you just want to curl up under the blanket, and you’re craving to snuggle up. Is that bad? What is warm and comforting? What do you think of Tuscan Turkey Soup? I think of it as a less fussy, even more flavorful cousin to Chicken Noodle Soup. Think creamy broth, tender shredded turkey, and all those delicious Tuscan flavors – cannellini. What are some good recipes for beans, kale, and Parmesan? What are some good soup recipes to try?
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What is Tuscan Turkey Soup?
Tuscan Turkey Soup is a hearty and flavorful soup inspired by the rustic cuisine of Tuscany. What’s your take on Italian turkey soup? What is a creamy broth-based soup loaded with shredded turkey (leftover Thanksgiving Turkey)? Is that amazing? ), cannellini beans (those creamy white beans that are just perfect), dark leafy greens like kale or spinach, etc. I like spinach, and aromatics like garlic, onions and maybe a little bit of Italian seasoning. What is the best way to use up leftover turkey? Is it surprisingly easy to throw together?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are some of the reasons I love this recipe?
- The Flavor: The combination of turkey, creamy cannellini beans, and Tuscan herbs is just incredible. Is it savory, comforting, and has a slight richness that’s so satisfying? I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes to my smoothies. What is the best way to add some spice?
- It’s SO EasyWhat is a foolproof recipe? Is it just chopping veggies and letting everything simmer together? What’s a good way to spend the week?
- Budget friendly: Especially if you’re using leftover turkey, this soup is incredibly economical. Canning beans are cheap, and kale is usually pretty affordable. How do I feed a crowd without breaking the bank?
- Super Versatile.This soup is great on its own, but you can also serve it with crusty bread for dipping, or even a side dish. What is a side salad? What are the best leftovers for the next day? What I love the most is how flexible it is with ingredients. What are some good substitutions for spinach and kale?
I’ve tried tons of turkey soup recipes, and this one just hits the spot. Is it the perfect balance of comfort and flavor, and so easy to customize to your own taste?
How do I make Tuscan Turkey Soup?
Quick Overview
How do I make Tuscan Turkey Soup? What is the best way to sauté kale, add beans and broth, simmer until the vegetables are tender, stir-fry. What are some great Side Dishes to serve with turkey and parmesan cheese? What is a one-pot wonder that comes together in under an hour? What is the beauty of this method is how forgiving it is – feel free to adjust the seasonings and spices. What ingredients can I add to my food?
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Use good quality olive oils. It adds a subtle fruity flavor to the soup’s base.
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped: 1 tbsp. I prefer yellow onions for their mild sweetness, but white onions work too.
- Freshly minced garlic is essential for that authentic Tuscan flavor.
- What is the best low-sodium chicken broth?
- Cannellini beans, rinsed and drained: Rinsing removes excess sodium. I’ve used other white beans in a pinch, and they work fine, too.
- 4 cups chopped kale (Tuscan or curly): Remove the tough stems before chopping. I sometimes massage the kale with a little olive oil to make it more tender.
- What is the best way to use leftover turkey for Thanksgiving? If you don’t have turkey, cook chicken.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional): For extra creaminess. Can you use half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk?
- What are some good uses for Parmesan cheese?
- One teaspoon Italian seasoning: A good quality blend really enhances Tuscan flavor.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Season generously!
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional): For a little heat.
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped.
- Crusty bread, for serving.
How do I follow
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add salt and pepper to taste. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant (be careful not to burn it!). I always do this on a lower heat so the garlic doesn’t get bitter.
Step 2: Add Broth and Beans
Add the cannellini beans and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer.
Step 3: Simmer the Kale
Add the chopped kale and Italian seasoning. Simmer until the mixture is smooth, about 10-15 minutes. If you’re using curly kale, it might need a little longer to soften up. I find that Tuscan kale cooks much faster.
Step 4: Stir in the Turkey
Stir in the shredded turkey and heat through. If you use leftover turkey from the fridge, this will take a few minutes. Make sure it’s warmed through properly.
Step 5: Finish with Cream and Cheese
If using, stir in heavy cream for extra richness. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt, Black Pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if using) to taste. This is when I give it a good taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Sometimes it needs a little extra salt or pepper to really bring out the flavors.
Step 6: Serve
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese, if desired. What’s your favorite part about crusty bread?
What should I serve it with?
What is a Tuscan Turkey Soup?
For a Light Lunch:What’s a good green salad with vinaigrette?
What is a hearty dinner?Serve with crusty bread, Garlic Bread or even some toasted baguette slices with a drizzle of olive oil. What are some good dipping recipes?
For a Crowd:Add roasted vegetables, like Brussels sprouts or carrots, for a more substantial meal. I’ve served it with a small salad before, and it was an absolute hit.
My family loves to dip grilled cheese sandwiches into this soup. Is it a bit unconventional, but trust me, it’s delicious?
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Tuscan Turkey Soup
Over the years, I’ve picked up a few tricks for making this Tuscan Turkey Soup even better:
Bean Boost: For an extra creamy texture, try blending a small portion of the soup (about a cup) before adding the turkey. This will thicken the broth and make it even more luscious.
Kale Care: Massage the kale with a little olive oil before adding it to the soup. This helps to break down the fibers and make it more tender. Don’t skip removing the tough stems!
Broth Matters: Use a good quality chicken or turkey broth. It really makes a difference in the overall flavor of the soup. Homemade broth is always best, but store-bought works just fine too. Just look for one that is low in sodium.
Herb It Up: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs. Rosemary, thyme, or even a bay leaf can add a lovely depth of flavor. Just remember to remove the bay leaf before serving!
Spice It Right: I love a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick, but you can also add a dash of hot sauce or even a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Taste as you go and adjust the seasonings to your liking.
Cheese Please: Parmesan cheese is a classic addition, but you can also try Pecorino Romano or even a little dollop of ricotta cheese on top. I’ve even sprinkled some crumbled goat cheese on it before, and it was fantastic!
I once accidentally added vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and while it wasn’t quite the same, it was still pretty good! So don’t worry too much if you make a mistake – it’s hard to mess this recipe up.
Storing and Reheating Tips
This Tuscan Turkey Soup is even better the next day, as the flavors have a chance to meld together. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:
Refrigerator Storage: Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. I usually use a glass container to avoid any plastic flavors seeping into the soup.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the soup. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. Be sure to leave some room at the top of the container, as the soup will expand when it freezes. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Thawing Methods: Thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. You can also thaw it in the microwave, but be sure to use a microwave-safe container and stir it occasionally.
Reheating: Reheat the soup in a pot on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave. If the soup seems too thick after reheating, add a little extra broth or water to thin it out. I sometimes add a splash of cream to freshen it up.
One thing I’ve learned is that if you’re planning to freeze the soup, it’s best to add the cream and Parmesan cheese after thawing and reheating. This will prevent the soup from becoming grainy or separated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my go-to Tuscan Turkey Soup recipe! It’s cozy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re using up leftover Thanksgiving turkey or just craving a comforting bowl of soup, this recipe is sure to please. I love that it’s so adaptable; feel free to experiment with different vegetables, herbs, and spices to make it your own. If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other soup recipes, like my Creamy Tomato Soup or my Hearty Vegetable Soup. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Let me know in the comments if you try it, and don’t forget to rate the recipe!
Tuscan Turkey Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Ground Turkey
- 1 cup Chopped Onion
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 4 cups Chicken Broth
- 1 cup Diced Tomatoes
- 1 cup Carrots, chopped
- 1 cup Celery, chopped
- 0.5 tsp Dried Oregano
- 0.5 tsp Dried Basil
- 0.25 tsp Salt
- 0.25 tsp Black Pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Brown the ground turkey in a large pot over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, carrots, celery, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-45 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Serve hot.
