The chilly winds outside don’t stand a chance against a steaming bowl of high protein soup. Packed with nourishing ingredients, this savory delight not only warms your heart but also delivers a whopping 28 grams of protein per serving. Imagine spooning into a rich broth filled with vibrant vegetables and hearty ground turkey, the very essence of cozy comfort food.
High Protein Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: High Protein
Description
A nourishing high protein soup packed with vibrant vegetables and hearty ground turkey, perfect for cozy comfort food.
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp Avocado Oil
- 1 Yellow Onion, chopped
- 2 tsp Garlic, minced
- 2 lbs Ground Turkey (or ground chicken)
- 2 Tbsp Italian Seasoning
- 2 tsp Sea Salt
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper
- 8 C. Chicken Broth
- 2 C. Carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 C. Celery, chopped
- 1 C. Green Beans, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 C. Sweet Potato, peeled and cubed
- 1.5 C. Cabbage, shredded
- 1 28 oz Can of Diced Tomatoes
- 1 14.5 oz Can of Chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1–2 C. Zucchini, sliced and cut into fourths
- Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme
Instructions
- In a large soup pot over medium heat, add the avocado oil. Once heated, add the chopped onions and sauté until soft and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
- Incorporate the ground turkey and cook until fully done, breaking it apart for an even texture.
- Add Italian seasoning, sea salt, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low-medium.
- Add carrots and celery; let simmer for 10 minutes.
- Introduce green beans, sweet potato, and cabbage; simmer for another 15-20 minutes until potatoes are slightly soft.
- Add diced tomatoes, chickpeas, and zucchini; simmer for an additional 10 minutes until zucchini is tender.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme before serving.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Why This High Protein Soup Recipe is a Family Favorite
This isn’t just any soup; this high protein version is your secret weapon against mealtime monotony. Loaded with nutrient-rich ingredients, it takes the traditional approach and bumps it up a notch for those seeking both flavor and health benefits. Whether you’re chasing after a weight loss goal or simply looking to enjoy a nutritious meal with your family, this soup is a big win. Plus, it comes together in just about 30 minutes. Yes, you heard me right—deliciousness doesn’t have to be a time-consuming affair!
Ingredient Highlight
What You’ll Need
- 2 Tbsp Avocado Oil
- 1 Yellow Onion, chopped
- 2 tsp Garlic, minced
- 2 lbs Ground Turkey (or ground chicken)
- 2 Tbsp Italian Seasoning
- 2 tsp Sea Salt
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper
- 8 C. Chicken Broth
- 2 C. Carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 C. Celery, chopped
- 1 C. Green Beans, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 C. Sweet Potato, peeled and cubed
- 1.5 C. Cabbage, shredded
- 1 28 oz Can of Diced Tomatoes
- 1 14.5 oz Can of Chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1-2 C. Zucchini, sliced and cut into fourths
- Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme
Cooking Method
From Pan to Plate
- In a large soup pot over medium heat, add the avocado oil. Once the oil is heated, add the chopped onions and sauté until slightly soft and translucent.
- Then, add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for 1-2 more minutes, allowing those fragrant notes to fill your kitchen.
- Next, add the ground turkey to the pot and cook until it’s fully done. Break it apart as you go for an even texture. Add the Italian seasoning, sea salt, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook for 2-3 more minutes, ensuring those flavorful spices are evenly distributed throughout the turkey.
- Add the chicken broth and bring it to a boil, piling on that layered flavor. Then, reduce the heat to low-medium.
- First, add the carrots and celery. Let them simmer for 10 minutes, allowing their sweetness to permeate the broth.
- Then, introduce the green beans, sweet potato, and cabbage into the pot. Simmer for another 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are slightly soft, creating a well-rounded texture.
- Lastly, add the diced tomatoes, chickpeas, and zucchini. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes or until the zucchini is tender.
- When ready to serve, garnish with fresh parsley or thyme. Dive into this belly-warming bowl and enjoy!
Nutrition Focus
Healthy Reasons to Love This
Each serving of our high protein soup measures about 2 cups, delivering approximately 350 calories, 28 grams of protein, 45 grams of carbohydrates, 10 grams of fat, and 12 grams of fiber. Packed with vitamins and minerals from the variety of vegetables, it’s a peerless powerhouse for sustained energy. This soup is not just a health supplement; it’s a treat for your taste buds!
Serving & Pairing Guide
Perfect Pairings
Serve this high protein soup hot, with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme for that bright finish. It pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread or a side salad bursting with seasonal greens. Perfect for cozy winter evenings or casual gatherings, this soup adapts to any table setting, ensuring smiles all around—guaranteed!
Storage & Reheat Section
How to Store It Right
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so gently on the stove to maintain the wonderful flavors and textures. A splash of broth or water can help revive any thickened soup that may have thickened in the fridge.
Pro Tips Section
Expert Tips
- For a richer flavor, add a splash of white wine while sautéing the onions and garlic.
- Chop your vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking and a pleasing presentation.
- Customize your seasonings! Swap in your favorite herbs or spices for a personal touch.
- Make a double batch for meals throughout the week; it freezes well!
- Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for added creaminess and protein.
Flavor Twists Section
Easy Variations
- Seasonal Twist: In autumn, incorporate diced butternut squash for a cozy, sweet addition.
- Gourmet Option: Offer a dash of truffle oil before serving for sophisticated flair.
- Playful Mix: Add a handful of small shell pasta or quinoa for heartier bites that kids will love!
Learning From Mistakes
Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking Veggies: Don’t let those tender veggies lose their vibrancy—keep an eye on cooking times.
- Soggy Texture: If you add too many quick-cooking ingredients like zucchini too early, they can get mushy. Add them closer to the end instead.
- Hasty Seasoning: Don’t wait until the end to season; add your spices early for maximum flavor infusion.
- Using Low-Quality Broth: A good quality broth makes a world of difference; opt for low-sodium varieties for better control over your salt levels.
- Skipping the Sauté: Take the time to sauté aromatics properly; it sets the base for a flavor-packed soup.
Leftover Solutions
Creative Second-Day Ideas
- Transform leftover soup into a savory casserole by layering in a baking dish with breadcrumbs and cheese, and bake until bubbly.
- Stir in cooked grains like rice or quinoa for a new twist, making it even more filling.
- Make a “soup and sandwich” night; add a side of grilled cheese for a nostalgic touch that pairs perfectly with your soup!
Quick Questions
- Can I use different meat in this high protein soup? Absolutely! Ground beef, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles can work well, but be mindful of cooking times for different meats.
- How can I make this soup vegetarian? Simply replace the ground turkey with lentils or beans and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a hearty vegetarian option.
- What’s the best way to adjust the spice level? To amp up the heat, add more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. For a milder taste, reduce the cayenne or omit it altogether.
- Can I prepare this soup ahead of time? Yes! It tastes even better the next day, as the flavors meld beautifully overnight. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!