As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up a healthy meal that everyone loves. That’s why I’m excited to share these 11 low calorie high protein soups with you! They’re not just nutritious; they’re also quick to prepare, making them perfect for those hectic weeknights. Imagine coming home after a long day and having a warm, comforting bowl of soup waiting for you. These recipes are designed to impress your loved ones while keeping your health goals in check. Let’s dive into these delicious soups that will nourish your body and soul!
Print11 Low Calorie High Protein Soups for Your Healthy Diet
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A collection of 11 delicious low calorie high protein soups that are perfect for a healthy diet.
Ingredients
- Chicken breast – 1 lb
- Vegetable broth – 4 cups
- Black beans – 1 can
- Quinoa – 1 cup
- Spinach – 2 cups
- Carrots – 2, diced
- Celery – 2 stalks, diced
- Onion – 1, chopped
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
- Tomatoes – 1 can, diced
- Spices (cumin, paprika, salt, pepper) – to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened.
- Add diced chicken breast and cook until browned.
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Add black beans, quinoa, spinach, and tomatoes.
- Season with spices and simmer for 20-30 minutes.
- Serve hot and enjoy your healthy soup!
Notes
- Feel free to add any other vegetables you like.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This soup can be frozen for later use.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: low calorie, high protein, soups, healthy diet
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This 11 Low Calorie High Protein Soups
These 11 low calorie high protein soups are a lifesaver for busy days. They’re quick to make, taking just about 45 minutes from start to finish. Each bowl is packed with flavor and nutrition, ensuring you and your family stay satisfied without the guilt. Plus, they’re versatile! You can easily customize them to suit your taste or use up whatever veggies you have on hand. What’s not to love?
Ingredients for 11 Low Calorie High Protein Soups
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these 11 low calorie high protein soups a success. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken breast: A lean protein source that keeps the soup hearty and satisfying.
- Vegetable broth: This forms the flavorful base of your soup. Opt for low-sodium varieties to keep it healthy.
- Black beans: Packed with protein and fiber, they add a creamy texture and earthy flavor.
- Quinoa: A fantastic grain that boosts protein content while adding a delightful crunch.
- Spinach: This leafy green is rich in vitamins and adds a pop of color and nutrition.
- Carrots: Sweet and crunchy, they bring a natural sweetness and vibrant color to the mix.
- Celery: Adds a refreshing crunch and depth of flavor to the soup.
- Onion: A must-have for building flavor; it becomes sweet and aromatic when sautéed.
- Garlic: This little powerhouse adds a punch of flavor and has numerous health benefits.
- Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes provide acidity and richness, balancing the flavors beautifully.
- Spices: Cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper enhance the overall taste. Feel free to adjust to your liking!
Feel free to mix in any other vegetables you enjoy or have on hand. Ingredients with exact quantities are listed at the bottom of the article for your convenience, ready for printing!
How to Make 11 Low Calorie High Protein Soups
Making these 11 low calorie high protein soups is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious, nutritious meal ready in no time. Let’s get cooking!
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating a splash of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for your soup!
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Next, toss in the diced chicken breast. Cook it for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned on all sides. This adds a hearty protein boost to your soup, making it even more satisfying.
Step 3: Add Broth and Bring to a Boil
Now, pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, which should take just a few minutes. The broth will infuse all those lovely flavors from the sautéed veggies and chicken.
Step 4: Incorporate Remaining Ingredients
Once boiling, it’s time to add the black beans, quinoa, spinach, and diced tomatoes. Stir everything together, and watch as the colors brighten up your pot! These ingredients not only add nutrition but also create a delightful texture.
Step 5: Season and Simmer
Now, season your soup with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for 20-30 minutes on low heat. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a comforting bowl of goodness.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Finally, ladle the soup into bowls and serve it hot. Enjoy the warmth and nourishment of your healthy creation! You can even top it with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon for an extra zing.
Tips for Success
- Prep your ingredients ahead of time to save precious minutes during cooking.
- Use a sharp knife for easier chopping and dicing of vegetables.
- Don’t skip the sautéing step; it enhances the soup’s flavor significantly.
- Adjust spices to your taste; everyone’s palate is different!
- Store leftovers in airtight containers for quick meals later in the week.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot: A sturdy pot is essential for making soup. A Dutch oven works great too!
- Cutting board: A good cutting board makes chopping veggies a breeze.
- Sharp knife: A sharp knife ensures safe and easy cutting.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and mixing your ingredients.
- Measuring cups: Handy for measuring out grains and liquids accurately.
Variations of 11 Low Calorie High Protein Soups
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with extra beans or lentils for a hearty vegetarian soup.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
- Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley just before serving for a burst of freshness.
- Creamy Texture: Blend a portion of the soup for a creamy consistency without adding cream.
- Seasonal Veggies: Swap in seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for variety.
Serving Suggestions for 11 Low Calorie High Protein Soups
- Pair your soup with a slice of whole-grain bread for a satisfying meal.
- Serve with a light salad topped with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added flavor.
- Enjoy with a glass of sparkling water infused with lemon for a zesty drink.
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FAQs about 11 Low Calorie High Protein Soups
Can I make these soups vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can easily make these 11 low calorie high protein soups vegetarian by replacing the chicken with extra beans or lentils. This keeps the protein content high while making it suitable for plant-based diets.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the soup in individual portions for quick meals later on.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables work great in these soups! They’re convenient and can save you time. Just toss them in during the cooking process, and they’ll thaw and cook perfectly.
What can I serve with these soups?
These 11 low calorie high protein soups pair wonderfully with whole-grain bread or a light salad. You can also garnish with fresh herbs or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added flavor and creaminess.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice level, simply add more or less of the spices like cumin and paprika. For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix!
Final Thoughts
Creating these 11 low calorie high protein soups has been a delightful journey for me, and I hope it becomes one for you too! Each bowl is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a chilly day, a quick solution for busy nights, and a way to nourish your family with wholesome ingredients. The joy of sharing a hearty soup with loved ones is unmatched. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the aroma of these soups fill your kitchen. You’ll be amazed at how something so simple can bring so much happiness!