Introduction
If you’re looking for a hearty and comforting dish to warm you up, this Turkey Orzo Soup is an ideal choice. With tender pieces of turkey, nutritious vegetables, and al dente orzo pasta, this recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a meal prep option for the week, this soup is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 6 cups chicken stock
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
In a large pot, pour in 1 tablespoon of olive oil and heat it over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion
Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Add Carrots, Celery, and Garlic
Next, incorporate the diced carrots, diced celery, and minced garlic into the pot. Continue to sauté for an additional 4-5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
Step 4: Stir in Turkey and Orzo
Once the vegetables are softened, stir in the shredded or diced turkey and the orzo pasta, mixing well.
Step 5: Add Chicken Stock and Seasoning
Pour in 6 cups of chicken stock and sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
Step 6: Bring to a Boil
Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low to let it simmer.
Step 7: Simmer Until Tender
Allow the soup to simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender. Stir occasionally during this time.
Step 8: Season to Taste
Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning according to your preference.
Step 9: Serve Hot
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious dish!
Notes
Storage
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
This soup can be frozen, but the orzo may become mushy upon reheating. Consider cooking the orzo separately if you plan to freeze leftovers.
Vegetable Variations
Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables such as peas or spinach for additional flavor and nutrition.
Cook techniques
Sauteing
Heating the olive oil and sautéing the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic is a foundational technique that enhances the flavors of the soup. It releases the natural sweetness of the vegetables and builds a savory base.
Simmering
Bringing the mixture to a boil and then reducing the heat to let it simmer is essential for cooking the orzo to the right texture. Simmering allows the pasta to absorb the flavors of the broth and meld with the other ingredients.
Seasoning
Adjusting the seasoning with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning at the end ensures that the soup has a balanced flavor. It’s important to taste and adjust as needed before serving.
Serving
Serving the soup hot helps maintain the warmth and enhances the overall experience, making it more comforting and enjoyable.
FAQ
Can I use leftover turkey for this recipe?
Yes, using leftover turkey is an excellent way to utilize it and add flavor to the soup.
What can I substitute for orzo pasta?
If you don’t have orzo, you can substitute with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice.
Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?
Yes, you can omit the turkey and use vegetable stock along with additional vegetables to create a vegetarian version.
How long can I store this soup in the refrigerator?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, the soup freezes well. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
This comforting turkey and orzo soup is a delightful way to utilize leftover turkey, combining tender pasta with nutritious vegetables for a hearty meal. The rich flavors from the chicken stock and Italian seasoning make this dish perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Serve it hot and enjoy the warm, satisfying taste that brings everyone together.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Turkey and Spinach Pasta Bake
Combine cooked turkey with spinach, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese. Layer with cooked pasta and bake until bubbly and golden.
Creamy Turkey Risotto
Use arborio rice and slowly cook it in chicken stock, adding shredded turkey, peas, and parmesan cheese for a creamy, indulgent dish.
Turkey Chili
Create a flavorful chili by using cooked turkey, black beans, diced tomatoes, bell peppers, and a blend of spices. Serve with cornbread for a hearty meal.
Turkey and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Sauté shredded turkey with a mix of colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. Serve over rice or noodles for a quick dinner.
Turkey Quesadillas
Fill tortillas with shredded turkey, cheese, and sautéed onions and peppers. Grill until crispy and serve with salsa and sour cream.
