Winter is the perfect time to enjoy hearty, warming soups that comfort the soul and nourish the body. Here are three delicious soup recipes to enjoy during the colder months:
1. Classic Chicken and Vegetable Soup
A comforting and nutritious option, perfect for chilly days.
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup pasta (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened.
- Add the carrots, celery, thyme, and bay leaf, and cook for a few more minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the shredded chicken, peas, and pasta (if using). Continue to cook for an additional 10 minutes, until the pasta is tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
2. Butternut Squash Soup
A creamy, velvety soup that’s perfect for winter and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and chopped into cubes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup coconut milk (or heavy cream)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil for roasting
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the chopped butternut squash on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
- In a large pot, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until softened.
- Add the roasted butternut squash, cumin, nutmeg, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender.
- Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper. Warm through and serve.
3. Hearty Lentil Soup
Packed with protein and fiber, this is a filling, nutritious option for a cold winter day.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups dried lentils, rinsed
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh spinach or kale (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until soft.
- Add the carrots, celery, cumin, thyme, and bay leaf. Cook for 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the lentils, broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- For an extra boost of greens, stir in fresh spinach or kale towards the end of cooking, and let it wilt into the soup.
- Serve hot with a slice of crusty bread.
These soups are all perfect for cozy winter nights, and they’re easy to prepare! Enjoy the warmth and comfort they bring.
