18 Best Healthy Soups
Soup has been a staple in many cultures and cuisines for centuries, providing comfort and nourishment to people all around the world. Whether it’s a hearty bowl of chicken noodle soup on a cold winter day or a light gazpacho on a hot summer afternoon, soups have become an essential part of our diets.
But did you know that soups can alsobe incredibly healthy? With the right ingredients, soups can provide a well-rounded and nutritious meal that is both satisfying and good for our bodies. In this article, we’ll explore 18 of the best healthy soups that you can easily make at home. From vegetarian options to protein-packed broths, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab your ladle and let’s dive into the world of healthy soups!
1. Vegetable Soup – By Love and Lemons
Vegetable soup is a classic and versatile option for anyone looking for a healthy meal. Packed with vitamins and nutrients from various vegetables like carrots, celery, tomatoes, and beans, this soup is both delicious and nutritious. It also makes for a great vegetarian option for those looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet.
2. Chicken Noodle Soup – By All Recipes
Chicken noodle soup is a beloved comfort food that also happens to be incredibly healthy. The combination of chicken, vegetables, and noodles in a flavorful broth makes for a balanced and hearty meal. Making your own broth from scratch can also add extra nutritional value to this classic soup.
3. Lentil Soup – By Recipe Tin Eats
Lentils are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, making them an excellent addition to any healthy diet. With their earthy flavor and hearty texture, lentils make for a satisfying soup that will keep you full for hours. Add some vegetables and spices to create a flavorful and nutritious soup.
4. Tomato Soup – By Natasha’s Kitchen
Tomato soup is a staple in many households, and for good reason. Tomatoes are packed with antioxidants and vitamins, making this soup both delicious and nutritious. For an extra kick of flavor, try roasting your tomatoes before blending them into a smooth and creamy soup.
5. Minestrone Soup – By Bing.com
Minestrone soup is a traditional Italian soup that is bursting with flavor and nutrients. With a variety of vegetables, beans, and pasta, this soup is a complete meal in itself. It’s also easily customizable, so you can use whatever vegetables or grains you have on hand.
6. Butternut Squash Soup – By All Recipes
Butternut squash is rich in antioxidants and provides a creamy and satisfying base for a delicious soup. Roasting the squash before blending it adds depth of flavor, and you can top your soup with some toasted nuts or seeds for extra texture.
7. Miso Soup – By Just One Cook Book
Miso soup is a staple in Japanese cuisine and is known for its health benefits. Made from fermented soybeans, miso paste adds a savory and umami flavor to the soup, along with probiotics that promote digestive health. Add some tofu and vegetables for a filling and nutritious meal.
8. Gazpacho Soup – By Gimme Some Oven
On a hot summer day, nothing beats a refreshing bowl of gazpacho soup. This Spanish soup is made from fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, onions, and herbs, making it a nutrient-dense and low-calorie option. It’s also a great way to incorporate more raw vegetables into your diet.
9. Black Bean Soup – By Two Bees and Their Pod
Black beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential minerals like iron and magnesium. When combined with spices and other veggies, black beans make for a hearty and nutritious soup that will keep you full and satisfied.
10. Broccoli Cheddar Soup – By Love and Lemons
Broccoli is a superfood packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a great base for a healthy soup. Adding some cheddar cheese not only adds flavor but also provides protein and calcium. Opt for a low-fat cheese to keep this soup on the healthier side.
11. Clam Chowder – By All Recipes
Clams are a great source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making clam chowder a nutritious soup option. Opt for a lighter version by using low-fat milk instead of heavy cream and incorporating more vegetables like carrots and celery.
12. Sweet Potato Soup – By Recipe Tin Eats
Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber, beta-carotene, and other nutrients, making them a great addition to any healthy diet. Roasting the sweet potatoes before blending them into a soup brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth of flavor.
13. Egg Drop Soup – By Gimme Some Oven
Egg drop soup is a simple yet satisfying Chinese dish that can be made healthier by using low-sodium broth and adding more vegetables like mushrooms and spinach. The eggs provide a boost of protein, and the soup’s warmth is sure to comfort you on a chilly day.
14. Split Pea Soup – By All Recipes
Split peas are high in fiber and plant-based protein, making them an excellent choice for a healthy and filling soup. Add some carrots, celery, and potatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also make this soup using a slow cooker for a hassle-free meal.
15. French Onion Soup – By Bing.com
French onion soup may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of healthy soups, but it can be made healthier by using low-sodium broth and reducing the amount of cheese. Plus, the caramelized onions in this soup add a burst of flavor and beneficial antioxidants.
16. Carrot Ginger Soup – By Love and Lemons
Carrots are rich in beta-carotene and vitamins, while ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and aids digestion. Combine them in a soup for a tasty and healthy meal that is perfect for cold winter days.
17. Beef Stew – By NY Times
Beef stew may not sound like the healthiest option, but it can be made nutritious by using lean cuts of beef and incorporating plenty of vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions. This hearty and filling soup is a great way to warm up on a cold day.
18. Spinach Tortellini Soup – By Eating Well
Spinach is a nutrient powerhouse, packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Combined with cheese tortellini in a flavorful broth, this soup is both nutritious and indulgent. Add some chicken or turkey for extra protein.
Conclusion
Soups are a versatile and easy way to incorporate more nutritious ingredients into your diet. Whether you’re looking for a comforting bowl of chicken noodle soup or wanting to try something more adventurous like miso soup, there is a healthy option for everyone. So next time you’re craving a warm and flavorful meal, consider making one of these delicious and nutritious soups.
