Welcome to my kitchen, where the aroma of simmering spices and fresh ingredients fills the air! Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Simple Ground Turkey Quinoa Soup. This hearty dish is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for those chilly evenings when comfort food is a must. As I stir the pot, I can’t help but reminisce about family dinners where laughter and stories flowed as freely as the soup. With its nourishing blend of ground turkey and quinoa, this soup is a delightful way to bring everyone together around the table. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
What is Simple Ground Turkey Quinoa Soup?
Simple Ground Turkey Quinoa Soup is a nourishing dish that combines lean ground turkey with protein-packed quinoa, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. This recipe draws inspiration from various global cuisines, showcasing how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly comforting. The use of quinoa, a staple in South American diets, adds a unique texture and nutritional boost, making this soup not only delicious but also a wholesome choice for any family. With its rich flavors and vibrant colors, this soup is a perfect representation of how food can unite cultures and families alike.
Why You’ll Love This Simple Ground Turkey Quinoa Soup
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 40 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: A delightful blend of spices and fresh ingredients that tantalize your taste buds.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein and fiber, making it a healthy choice for everyone.
- Family-Friendly: A comforting dish that appeals to both kids and adults, making mealtime enjoyable.
Who It’s For
This soup is ideal for busy families looking for a quick, nutritious meal, health-conscious cooks wanting to incorporate lean proteins and whole grains, and food lovers who appreciate globally inspired dishes. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself, this recipe is versatile enough to satisfy everyone’s cravings.
When to Cook It
Simple Ground Turkey Quinoa Soup is perfect for weeknight dinners when time is short but you still want something hearty. It’s also great for meal prep, making it a fantastic option for busy weeks ahead. Serve it during family gatherings or cozy nights in, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your household!
- 1 lb ground turkey: A lean protein that keeps the soup hearty without excess fat.
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed: Adds a nutty flavor and is packed with protein and fiber.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Provides a sweet base flavor when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the aroma and adds depth to the soup.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Brings acidity and richness to balance the flavors.
- 4 cups chicken broth: The liquid base that infuses the soup with savory goodness.
- 1 cup carrots, diced: Adds sweetness and vibrant color, plus essential vitamins.
- 1 cup celery, diced: Contributes crunch and a fresh taste to the mix.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: A classic herb that complements the other flavors beautifully.
- 1 tsp cumin: Adds warmth and a hint of earthiness to the soup.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: Brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.
- In a large pot, brown the ground turkey over medium heat until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. The turkey should be golden and crumbly.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes. The aroma will be irresistible!
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, carrots, celery, quinoa, oregano, and cumin. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the vegetables are tender. You’ll see the quinoa puffing up beautifully!
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning to your preference for a perfect finish.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this delicious soup!
- Stevia: A natural sweetener with zero calories, perfect for adding sweetness without sugar.
- Monk fruit: Another natural option that provides sweetness without affecting blood sugar levels.
- Allulose: A low-calorie sugar that tastes like sugar but has minimal impact on blood sugar.
It’s best to avoid honey or maple syrup, as they can spike blood sugar levels significantly.
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Colander (for rinsing quinoa)
- Serving bowls
- Use Fresh Herbs: Chef Jamie Oliver suggests adding fresh herbs like cilantro or basil at the end for a burst of flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Browning: Renowned chef Thomas Keller emphasizes the importance of browning the turkey well to develop rich flavors.
- Customize Your Veggies: Chef Ina Garten recommends using seasonal vegetables to enhance the soup’s freshness and nutrition.
- Make It Ahead: Chef Rachael Ray advises making a big batch and freezing portions for quick meals later.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Chef Emeril Lagasse encourages experimenting with spices like smoked paprika or cayenne for added depth.
- Refrigerator: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing.
- Freezer: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top for expansion.
- Reheating on the Stove: Gently reheat on medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if it’s too thick.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
- Thawing: For frozen soup, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or use the microwave’s defrost setting before reheating.
- Not Rinsing Quinoa: Failing to rinse quinoa can result in a bitter taste due to its natural coating. Always rinse it under cold water before cooking.
- Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking vegetables for too long can make them mushy and lose their vibrant color. Aim for tender but still crisp veggies for the best texture.
- Skipping Seasoning: Neglecting to season your soup can lead to bland flavors. Taste and adjust the seasoning throughout the cooking process for a well-balanced dish.
- Using Low-Quality Broth: A poor-quality broth can diminish the overall flavor of your soup. Opt for a good-quality chicken broth or homemade stock for the best results.
- Not Allowing Enough Simmer Time: Rushing the simmering process can prevent the flavors from developing fully. Allow the soup to simmer for at least 20 minutes for a rich, hearty taste.
Q: Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey in this Simple Ground Turkey Quinoa Soup?
Yes, ground chicken is a great substitute and will work well in this recipe.
Q: Is Simple Ground Turkey Quinoa Soup suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this soup stores well and can be made ahead for easy meals throughout the week.
Q: Can I add more vegetables to the Simple Ground Turkey Quinoa Soup?
It depends on your preference! Feel free to add spinach, bell peppers, or any seasonal veggies you enjoy.
Q: Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, Simple Ground Turkey Quinoa Soup is gluten-free, making it a safe option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Q: How can I make this Simple Ground Turkey Quinoa Soup spicier?
Yes, you can add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an extra kick of heat!
In conclusion, Simple Ground Turkey Quinoa Soup is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings warmth and nourishment to your table. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do! If you try it, please share your thoughts in the comments below or share this recipe with your friends and family. Happy cooking!
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Simple Ground Turkey Quinoa Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A hearty and nutritious soup made with ground turkey and quinoa, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground turkey over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, carrots, celery, quinoa, oregano, and cumin.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the vegetables are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Simple Ground Turkey Quinoa Soup, Ground Turkey Soup, Quinoa Soup