Here are 7 of the healthiest soup ideas to keep you warm this season.
1) Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken noodle soup has been a household favorite for centuries, and there's no denying that it tastes delicious. However, because this soup is often high in sodium, it's not the best option for people trying to cut back on salt.
If you're looking for a low-sodium chicken noodle soup recipe, try this one from scratch with carrots, celery, onion, thyme, parsley, and bay leaves. For an even healthier option: use whole wheat noodles or egg noodles instead of regular white flour noodles.
2) Skinny Minestrone Soup
This light yet hearty soup is great for a night when you're feeling under the weather. In addition, it can be made vegetarian or vegan by using vegetable broth instead of beef broth. For an extra health boost, add green beans and white beans.
If you have leftover rotisserie chicken on hand, try adding it in for an additional protein punch. To make this recipe even quicker and easier to prepare, substitute frozen mixed vegetables for the fresh ones called for in the recipe!
3) Minestrone with Meatballs
This recipe is perfect for warming up on a cold winter day. The soup is packed full of vegetables and lean meatballs, which give you a well-rounded meal that will keep you going throughout your day.
The best part? It only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish!
4) Simple Tomato Basil Soup
This soup is simple and healthy, perfect for those busy days. The recipe only requires a few ingredients. Be sure to add a drizzle of olive oil before serving for an extra taste.
For a different spin on this recipe, you can also serve it with fresh basil leaves or even pepperoni slices!
5) Slow Cooker Bean and Ham Soup
Slow Cooker Bean and Ham Soup This soup is full of flavor from a ham bone simmered with beans, onions, garlic, and thyme.
The result is a rich broth loaded with protein for an extra satisfying meal.
6) Spiced Butternut Squash & Apple Soup
Butternut squash is a great winter vegetable used in soups and other recipes. A classic way to prepare butternut squash is by roasting it and then pureeing it into soup or using it as a side dish.
To make this recipe, you will need one onion, two teaspoons of cinnamon, one teaspoon each of ginger and cardamom, one red apple, three tablespoons honey, and four cups butternut squash cubes (from about one medium-sized butternut squash).
After preparing your vegetables (chopping the onion), mix them with the honey in a pot. Cook for 20 minutes over medium heat until tender. Add water until you have 4 cups worth.
7) Spicy Lentil & Coconut Milk Stew
This hearty and healthy soup recipe is perfect for this time of year. Simply combine lentils, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, tomatoes, cumin, and vegetable broth over medium-high heat.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 30 minutes or until vegetables are tender. Serve with coconut milk and garnish with chopped cilantro.
