Clean and Healthy Winter Soup Recipe with Simple Ingredients and Easy Directions

As winter wraps us in its chilly embrace, nothing warms you up like a steaming bowl of soup. This clean and healthy winter soup recipe is packed with flavor and nutrients to keep your spirits high when the temperature drops. The best part? You can make this hearty dish in under an hour with just a few basic ingredients. Let's jump right into the delicious details!

A steaming bowl of healthy winter soup filled with colorful vegetables

Ingredients

To craft this delightful winter soup, gather the following simple ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil: This heart-healthy fat adds richness and flavor.

• 1 medium onion, chopped: Delivers a savory base and enhances the aroma.

• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Boosts flavor and has numerous health benefits.

• 3 medium carrots, diced: Packed with nutrients, they provide natural sweetness and vibrant color.

• 2 celery stalks, diced: Contributes a satisfying crunch and adds depth.

• 1 medium zucchini, diced: Low in calories, it enhances the overall heartiness of the soup.

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Adds acidity and a rich tomato flavor to the mix.

• 4 cups vegetable broth: Forms the soup's base, providing moisture and additional flavor.

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Infuses the dish with a fragrant and earthy note.

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Enhances the warmth of the dish.

• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing flavors.

• 2 cups fresh spinach: A nutrient powerhouse that wilts beautifully into the soup.

  
  

Directions

Ready to get cooking? Follow these straightforward steps to create your winter soup:

1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pot over medium heat, warm the olive oil until it shimmers.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion turns translucent and fragrant.

   
   

3. Add the Vegetables: Stir in the diced carrots and celery. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften.

   
   

4. Incorporate Zucchini and Tomatoes: Add the diced zucchini and canned tomatoes (with their juice) to the pot. Mix well to combine.

   
   

5. Pour in the Broth: Add the vegetable broth, dried thyme, and oregano. Bring the mixture to a boil.

   
   

6. Simmer the Soup: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This slow cooking lets the flavors merge beautifully.

   
   

7. Add Spinach: In the last few minutes of cooking, incorporate the fresh spinach and cook until just wilted.

   
   

8. Season to Taste: Season the soup with salt and pepper according to your preference.

   
   

9. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and savor it while warm. It pairs beautifully with whole-grain bread or a light salad.

   
   

Nutritional Benefits

This winter soup is more than just a comforting meal. It offers a range of nutritional benefits:

• Variety of Vegetables: Packed with vitamin A from carrots and vitamin K from spinach, this soup supports healthy vision and strong bones.

  
  

• Low in Calories: With around 150 calories per serving, it's an excellent choice for maintaining or losing weight during winter.

  
  

• Hydration: The soup's broth helps keep you hydrated, an important consideration in dry winter conditions.

  
  

• Antioxidants: Ingredients like tomatoes and spinach are high in antioxidants, which help protect your cells from damage.

  
  

Customization Tips

The beauty of soup lies in its versatility! Here are a few ideas to customize this winter soup to suit your preferences:

• Add Protein: For a heartier meal, mix in cooked chicken, turkey, or canned beans for plant-based protein. Just one cup of beans can boost the protein content by around 15 grams.

  
  

• Spice it Up: If you enjoy a hint of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

  
  

• Herb Variations: Experiment with herbs like basil or parsley to create your unique flavor profile.

  
  

• Creamy Texture: For a richer mouthfeel, blend a portion of the soup and return it to the pot, or add a splash of coconut milk or cream.

  
  

Final Thoughts

This clean and healthy winter soup recipe is a perfect way to warm your body and nourish your soul during the cold months. Easy to prepare and adaptable to your taste, it's bound to become a favorite in your winter meal lineup.

So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a comforting bowl of soup that not only satisfies but also supports your health. Happy cooking!