Turkey Lentil Soup with Spinach

Lean turkey, dry lentils, and spinach make this soup satisfying and practical for cooler evenings. Aromatics and herbs build the broth, while the lentils provide body without canned shortcuts.

Why this recipe works

Why this protein-packed soup works

Turkey and lentils provide a strong base of protein and fiber. First, cooking aromatics develops a savory base. Next, simmering the lentils lets them soften and absorb flavor. Finally, adding bright finishing notes such as lemon or fresh herbs keeps the soup from tasting flat.

Ingredients

½×1×2×3×4×5×6×7×8×9×10×

ⓘ Original recipe (1×) yields 4 servings

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil?
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Lean turkey, dry lentils and spinach?
• 6 cups homemade or minimally processed broth
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Fresh herbs and citrus juice for serving

Instructions

1. Brown lean ground turkey with onion. Meanwhile, break up the meat as it cooks to ensure even browning.
2. Add carrots, celery, garlic, lentils and broth. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
3. Simmer until the lentils are tender. Check occasionally, and skim any foam for a clearer broth.
4. Stir in spinach and finish with lemon. Finally, taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.

Make it your own

Adjust the broth to reach the texture you prefer. For example, add more broth for a thinner soup, or reduce it for a stew-like consistency. Additionally, add red pepper flakes for heat or extra greens during the final minutes of cooking. If you plan to freeze the soup, cool it fully before dividing it into individual airtight containers.

Nutrition perspective

Soup can be a convenient way to combine vegetables, protein and fiber in one bowl. Nutrition will vary with portion size and ingredient brands. Therefore, taste before adding salt, especially when using prepared broth or rotisserie chicken.

Storage and reheating

Refrigerate leftovers for up to four days. Reheat gently until steaming, adding a splash of water or broth if needed. For more seasonal recipes and practical ideas, visit The Nutrient.

Nutrition Facts

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories360

% Daily Value*

Total Fat

8 g

Saturated Fat

2 g

Total Carbohydrate

41 g

Dietary Fiber

11 g

Total Sugars

7 g

Protein

32 g

Sodium

590 mg

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