1. Classic Tomato Basil Soup (150 Calories)
Tomato basil soup is a timeless winter favorite that perfectly combines the sweetness of ripe tomatoes with the fragrant earthiness of fresh basil. To prepare, start by sautéing a chopped onion and garlic in olive oil until they’re golden. Add two cans of diced tomatoes and sauté until heated through. Incorporate vegetable broth and season with salt and pepper. Once combined, simmer for 10 minutes. Blend until smooth and stir in a handful of fresh basil before serving. This delightful soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of whole-grain bread, keeping it light and healthy under 400 calories.
2. Spicy Lentil Soup (250 Calories)
Spicy lentil soup is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a heartwarming choice for chilly days. Begin by heating olive oil in a pot and sautéing onion, garlic, and a chopped jalapeño pepper until soft. Add one cup of rinsed lentils, diced carrots, and celery, then pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Season with cumin, coriander, and smoked paprika. Reduce heat, cover, and let it simmer until the lentils are tender. Each bowl of this soup offers fiber and protein, providing lasting warmth and fullness while staying under 400 calories.
3. Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup (230 Calories)
Creating a smooth and creamy butternut squash soup is simple with a slow cooker. Combine peeled and cubed butternut squash, chopped onion, garlic, ginger, and vegetable broth. Season with nutmeg and cinnamon for an added warmth. Cook on low for about 6 hours or until the squash is tender. Once done, blend the mixture until smooth and return it to the slow cooker. Each serving of this velvety soup is low in calories but high in flavor and nutrients, making it a perfect winter indulgence.
4. Chicken and Vegetable Soup (300 Calories)
This classic chicken and vegetable soup is not just comforting; it’s also nutritious. Start with sautéing chopped onions, carrots, and celery in a pot. Add diced chicken breast and cook until browned. Pour in low-sodium chicken broth, along with shredded cabbage and diced potatoes. Season with thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Allow the soup to simmer until the vegetables are tender. This wholesome meal is not only fulfilling but is also a great way to use leftover chicken, keeping it light and cozy during the winter months.
5. Spinach and White Bean Soup (320 Calories)
Spinach and white bean soup is both creamy and nutritious, offering a delightful kick of flavor. Begin by sautéing chopped onions and garlic until soft. Add spinach, canned white beans, vegetable broth, and seasonings like oregano and chili flakes. Let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes. Blend about half of the soup for a creamy texture while leaving some beans whole for added texture. This healthy and filling soup is rich in protein and fiber, making it an ideal selection when the temperatures drop.
6. Moroccan Chickpea Soup (290 Calories)
Bringing exotic flavors to your winter meals can be achieved with Moroccan chickpea soup. In a large pot, heat olive oil and sauté onions and garlic until softened. Stir in diced tomatoes, canned chickpeas, and a blend of spices—cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and cayenne. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Add chopped kale or spinach and cook until wilted. This vibrant soup bursts with global flavors, providing you with a warm bowl full of nutrients and enough spice to keep the winter chill at bay.
7. Cauliflower and Cheddar Soup (350 Calories)
Creamy cauliflower and cheddar soup is a satisfying winter treat that feels indulgent. Start by steaming cauliflower florets until soft. Sauté onions and garlic in butter, add the steamed cauliflower, and pour in low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth. Blend until smooth and stir in sharp cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of lemon juice for brightness. Each bowl of this rich soup is comforting while remaining under 400 calories, perfect to enjoy beside a crackling fire.
8. Mushroom Barley Soup (270 Calories)
Mushroom barley soup is perfect for those who enjoy hearty, earthy flavors. In a large pot, sauté onions, garlic, and a mix of sliced mushrooms until beautifully caramelized. Add pearl barley, vegetable or chicken broth, and a mix of diced carrots and celery. Season with thyme and bay leaves, then simmer until the barley is tender. This soup not only warms you up but is also an excellent source of fiber, making it a sensible option for a healthy winter meal.
9. Zucchini Noodle Soup (180 Calories)
Zucchini noodle soup offers a fresh and light alternative to traditional preparations. Start by spiralizing zucchini into noodles. In a pot, sauté garlic and onion, then add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and seasonings like basil and oregano. When the mixture
