Healthy Turkey Meatball and Spinach Soup

Turkey Meatball and Spinach Soup As the chill of autumn settles in, there's nothing quite like a warm and hearty soup to comfort your soul. Our Turkey Meatball and Spinach Soup is a delightful dish that combines lean protein with vibrant greens, offering a nutritious and satisfying meal. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home or to impress your guests with a healthy choice. Ingredients For the Turkey Meatballs: 1 pound ground turkey 1/4 cup breadcrumbs 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1 egg 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 teaspoon dried oregano Salt and pepper to taste For the Soup: 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 onion, diced 2 carrots, sliced 2 stalks celery, chopped 3 cloves garlic, minced 6 cups chicken broth 2 cups fresh spinach leaves 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained 1 teaspoon dried basil Salt and pepper to taste Cooking Method Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated. Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about one inch in diameter, and set aside. Cook the Soup: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer. Gently add the turkey meatballs into the simmering broth. Cook for about 10 minutes until meatballs are cooked through. Stir in spinach leaves, diced tomatoes, and dried basil. Cook for another 5 minutes until spinach wilts. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and serve hot. Nutritional Value and Pairings This Turkey Meatball and Spinach Soup is a powerhouse of nutrition. The lean turkey provides high-quality protein with lower fat content compared to traditional red meats. Spinach is rich in iron and vitamins A, C, and K, adding a nutritional boost. Carrots and tomatoes offer antioxidants and additional vitamins, making this a well-rounded meal. For an ideal pairing, consider serving this soup with a side of crusty whole-grain bread to soak up the savory broth. A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette will complement the soup’s flavors well. For drinks, a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a non-alcoholic sparkling water with a slice of lime will add a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty soup. Indulge in this nutritious meal that not only pleases the palate but also fortifies the body, marrying simplicity with deliciousness in every spoonful.