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Turkey Lentil Soup

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This Turkey Lentil Soup is a warm and comforting dish made with lean ground turkey, tender lentils, and hearty vegetables in a flavorful broth. It’s an easy, healthy meal for any night of the week!

Ingredients

Scale
For the Soup
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 lb ground turkey (or shredded cooked turkey)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
  • 1 cup dry lentils (green or brown), rinsed
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 6 cups chicken or turkey broth
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2 cups baby spinach or kale (optional, for extra greens)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for brightness)
For Garnish (Optional)
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (if not dairy-free)


Instructions

1. Cook the Turkey
  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add ground turkey and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it up until browned.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
  1. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, cooking for 5 minutes until softened.
  2. Stir in salt, pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, and thyme.
3. Simmer the Soup
  1. Pour in lentils, diced tomatoes, broth, and bay leaf. Stir well.
  2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 30–35 minutes, until lentils are tender.
  3. Stir in spinach or kale (if using) and cook for 5 more minutes.
  4. Remove the bay leaf and stir in lemon juice before serving.
4. Serve & Enjoy
  1. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or Parmesan.
  2. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad.

Storage & Reheating
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.

Notes

  • Swap ground turkey for shredded leftover turkey or ground chicken.
  • Use red lentils for a softer, creamier texture.
  • Want extra spice? Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce!