Snowy Day Low Fat (Printable)
Comforting low-fat soup with seasonal vegetables and lean proteins for a warming winter meal.
# List of ingredients:
→ Vegetables
01 - 1 large onion, diced
02 - 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
03 - 2 celery stalks, sliced
04 - 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
05 - 1 cup green beans, chopped
06 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
07 - 1 cup baby spinach, roughly chopped
→ Protein
08 - 1 cup cooked skinless chicken breast, shredded (optional; substitute with 1 cup canned white beans, rinsed and drained for vegetarian option)
→ Broth & Seasonings
09 - 6 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
10 - 1 bay leaf
11 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
12 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
13 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
14 - Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional)
# Steps:
01 - In a large soup pot, warm a splash of water or broth over medium heat. Add diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until fragrant and beginning to soften.
02 - Incorporate minced garlic into the pot, stirring continuously. Cook for 1 minute without browning.
03 - Add diced potatoes, chopped green beans, bay leaf, dried thyme, dried oregano, and broth. Increase heat and bring mixture to a boil.
04 - Lower heat to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for 20 minutes, or until all vegetables are tender when pierced with a fork.
05 - Stir in shredded chicken or white beans along with the baby spinach. Continue cooking for 2 to 3 minutes until spinach wilts and protein is thoroughly heated.
06 - Remove the bay leaf from the pot. Adjust seasoning with salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and optional lemon juice to brighten flavors.
07 - Ladle soup into bowls and serve hot.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- It manages to be both comforting and health-conscious, a secret worth sharing for cozy winter nights
- The balance of lean protein and fresh seasonal vegetables makes it a satisfying favorite without any heaviness
02 -
- The bay leaf adds subtle depth but must be removed before serving or it will surprise you with an overpowering flavor
- Adding spinach at the end preserves its vibrant color and keeps the texture tender, which makes all the difference
03 -
- Simmer gently to avoid breaking down the potatoes, which keeps the soup’s texture pleasing
- Shredding chicken finely helps it merge into the soup, making every bite balanced